Hormones, Metabolism & You!

48: The Truth About Supplements for Hormonal Health with Shawn Wells

Mar 2, 2025

Join nutritional biochemist Shawn Wells, known as the 'World's Greatest Formulator', as he discusses the vital connection between hormones and women's health, particularly during menopause. He explores the impact of the gut microbiome on hormonal balance and the role of stress in disrupting it. Discover the power of adaptogens like ashwagandha for resilience, and how supplements such as magnesium and vitamin D3 can enhance hormonal health. Shawn also advocates for a fresh perspective on women's hormonal cycles, aiming to empower women's health awareness.

01:09:25

Episode guests

Shawn Wells

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Episode notes

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Quick takeaways

Supplementation with magnesium, vitamin D3, and adaptogens like ashwagandha is crucial for managing hormonal health during menopause.

Understanding the four hormonal phases of a woman's menstrual cycle can empower women to optimize their health and self-care practices.

Addressing chronic stress through lifestyle changes and nutrition is essential for maintaining hormonal balance and alleviating mental health symptoms.

Deep dives

The Role of Supplements in Hormonal Health

Supplementation is vital for managing hormonal health, particularly during menopause. Specific supplements such as magnesium and vitamin D3 have shown significant efficacy in improving symptoms such as sleep disturbances and mood swings. Both these nutrients are often found to be deficient in many individuals, contributing to increased stress and hormonal imbalances. Along with these, adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola are discussed for their ability to help the body manage stress and restore balance.

Intro

6min

Empowering Women's Health Through Hormonal Awareness

25min

Essential Supplements for Women's Hormonal Health

5min

The Hormonal Role of Vitamin D3

5min

Hormonal Health and Sleep Solutions

18min

Exploring Supplements for ADHD and Focus Enhancement

4min

Enhancing Libido: Supplements and Strategies for Women's Hormonal Health

2min

Connecting with Resources for Hormonal Health and Wellness

4min

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TL;DR: In this episode, holistic endocrinologist Dr. Cassie Smith teams up with supplement formulator Sean Wells to chat about how hormones affect women's health during menopause and perimenopause. They dive into the importance of understanding the different phases of a woman's menstrual cycle and how stress can throw hormonal balance off track.

About Sean Wells: Shawn Wells, MPH, RD, CISSN, FISSN, is a globally recognized nutritional biochemist, dietitian, and supplement formulator. Known as The World's Greatest Formulator, he has developed over 1,000 products and holds 40+ patents in the health and wellness industry.

A best-selling author of The ENERGY Formula, Shawn’s work has been featured on major platforms like Forbes, NPR, and The Joe Rogan Experience. Passionate about optimizing health, he continues to innovate in performance nutrition and longevity.

Show Highlights:

(00:01:13) Exploration of supplements for hot flashes, stress management
(00:01:13) Sean discusses the gut microbiome's impact on hormones and stress
(00:02:12) Exploration of different hormonal phases in women’s lives
(00:11:55) Discussion on the need for a shift in how society views women's health and hormonal cycles.
(00:21:18) Sean recommends adaptogens like ashwagandha and rhodiola to help balance hormones and improve resilience.
(00:26:01) Impact of microplastics and environmental toxins on health and hormonal function.
(00:31:19) Recommendations for supplements to support hormonal balance, especially during menopause.
(00:52:14) Strategies for managing stress without relying on pharmaceuticals.
(01:05:20) Final thoughts and sharing of resources for further information and supplements.

Hormonal Health & Menopause Support

Evening Primrose Oil – Supports hormonal balance and reduces hot flashes
Borage Oil (High GLA Source) – Supports menopause symptoms and skin health
Dong Quai – Traditional herb for hormonal balance
Maca Root – Enhances libido and energy
Pregnenolone – A precursor hormone for estrogen, progesterone, and DHEA

Stress & Adaptogens

Ashwagandha – Reduces cortisol and supports stress resilience
Rhodiola Rosea – Enhances mental and physical performance
Holy Basil (Tulsi) – Reduces anxiety and promotes relaxation
L-Theanine – Supports focus and relaxation without drowsiness

Sleep Optimization

Magnesium Glycinate – Supports relaxation and muscle recovery
Melatonin (Low Dose) – Supports circadian rhythm and deep sleep
Glycine – Improves sleep quality and cognitive function

Gut & Metabolic Health

Tributyrin (Postbiotic) – Supports gut lining integrity
Berberine (Dihydroberberine) – Supports insulin sensitivity and metabolic health
Vitamin D3 – Essential for immune function and hormone balance
Methylated B Vitamins (B6, B12, Folate) – Supports mood, energy, and cognitive function

Cognitive & Mood Support

SAM-e – Supports mood and neurotransmitter balance
5-HTP – Precursor to serotonin for mood and sleep support [add link]
Alpha-GPC – Boosts cognitive function and memory [add link]
Methylene Blue – Enhances mitochondrial energy production [add link]

Libido & Sexual Health

Horny Goat Weed (Icariin) – Enhances blood flow and testosterone availability
Nitric Oxide Boosters (Beetroot, Citrulline, Arginine) – Supports circulation and sexual function

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