In Episode 311 of Iron Culture, hosts Dr. Eric Trexler, Dr. Eric Helms, and Dr. Lauren Colenso-Semple deliver a comprehensive exploration of hormones, health, and performance optimization. The episode opens with a deep dive into recent research on stretching protocols and muscle adaptations, examining groundbreaking case studies that challenge conventional wisdom about flexibility training and muscle growth.

The centerpiece of this episode focuses on demystifying menopause, with the hosts providing an evidence-based breakdown of symptoms, treatment options, and common misconceptions about hormone therapy. They tackle the complex landscape of medical misinformation head-on, offering listeners practical guidance for seeking specialized care and making informed health decisions. The discussion extends to critical examinations of hormonal contraceptives and their relationship with breast cancer risk, providing nuanced insights into inflammation mechanisms and risk assessment. The episode concludes with an illuminating segment on male hormone replacement therapy and "andropause," building on their previous coverage of testosterone optimization.

The MASS crew records Iron Culture LIVE on YouTube, Monday nights at 7pm eastern time. Be sure to join us for a future episode and say hello in the live chat!

Time Stamps:

0:00 Introduction and Eric's upcoming contest prep plan

3:34 Calf stretching case study breakdown

22:33 Why you need to listen to the following section

28:12 Menopause information and symptoms

40:49 Menopause and hormone therapy misinformation

50:54 The BS asymmetry principle, seeking specialist attention, and science communication

1:01:50 Breast cancer risk and inflammation with hormonal contraceptives

1:12:58 "Man-opause" and hormone replacement therapy for men

1:24:48 Wrapping up

BONUS Part Two: Big News, Bigger Feelings: A Live Therapy Sesh with Gina Moffa