Understanding Perimenopause, Weight Gain, and Aging Well - #91

Perimenopause is a transitional phase that marks the beginning of a woman’s journey toward menopause, often starting in the late 40s, but could start as early as mid-30s. As hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone, begin to fluctuate, women experience a variety of symptoms, including weight gain. This weight gain is often due to hormonal changes that affect metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and fat distribution, particularly around the abdomen.

This weight gain during perimenopause not only affects physical appearance and one’s confidence but also has important implications for long-term health and longevity. Increased abdominal fat is linked to a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome, conditions that can significantly impact a woman’s quality of life and lifespan. Addressing weight gain during perimenopause is not just about aesthetics—it's about prioritizing long-term health.

Making mindful, sustainable lifestyle changes can improve not only how women feel today but also enhance their overall longevity, supporting a more vibrant, healthy future. Health coaches can help you on your menopause journey to figure out what your unique health equation is, alongside your doctors.

My guest today is Dr. Heather Quaile, a double board-certified, women’s and gender health nurse practitioner and advanced forensic nurse specializing in human trafficking and female sexual health. She is a thought leader and creator of the Just Ask podcast. Dr. Quaile is also trained and certified as a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. Dr. Quaile has been working in all aspects of women’s healthcare for over 23 years caring for women of all ages across the health-illness continuum and recognized the lack of sexual health awareness not just in her community but in its providers. She founded, developed, and implemented her private practice The Sexual Health Optimization and Wellness (SHOW) Center.

Her goal is to help guide patients through their healthcare journey and provide a range of services that address the biopsychosocial aspects of health, wellness, optimization, and sexuality. She is a Fellow of the International Society for the Study of Women’s Sexual Health (ISSWSH) and a Fellow of the American Academy of Nurse Practitioners.

Medical Disclaimer:

By listening to this podcast, you agree not to use this podcast as medical advice or to make any lifestyle changes to treat any medical condition in yourself or others. Consult your physician for any medical issues that you may be having. This entire disclaimer also applies to any of my guests on my podcast.

Learn more about Dr. Quaile:

Website: https://theshowcenter.com/

IG: https://www.instagram.com/showcenterdrq/

FB: https://www.facebook.com/theshowcenter/

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