BONUS: Understanding Menopause: Hormonal Shifts in Women's Brains with Dr. Lisa Mosconi
Sep 30, 2024
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Dr. Lisa Mosconi, an Associate Professor of Neuroscience and a leading voice in women's health, sheds light on the profound changes women's brains undergo during menopause. She discusses the historical neglect of women's health research and the alarming consequences of medical gaslighting. The conversation highlights hormonal roles like estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone and suggests lifestyle interventions and evolving treatments. Dr. Mosconi emphasizes the need for greater awareness and cultural support for women navigating these life transitions.
Understanding hormonal shifts during menopause is essential as they significantly impact cognitive function and emotional regulation in women.
The historical undervaluation of women's health issues often results in medical gaslighting, highlighting the need for inclusive research and awareness.
Lifestyle interventions, such as exercise and nutrition, play a vital role in enhancing brain health and managing menopause symptoms effectively.
Deep dives
The Impact of Hormonal Changes on Women's Brains
Hormonal changes during key life stages significantly affect women's brain health, particularly during puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. During these transitions, women experience altered brain function associated with fluctuating hormone levels. Research shows that menopause is not a linear process; rather, it involves distinct phases that can induce sharp changes in cognitive function and emotional regulation. These changes are essential for women to understand, as awareness can empower them to seek appropriate medical support and lifestyle adjustments.
Eliminating Medical Gaslighting in Women's Health
The medical community has historically undervalued women's health issues, especially regarding menopause. This lack of attention often leads to medical gaslighting, where women report symptoms that are dismissed or attributed to unrelated conditions. Such dismissals highlight the importance of more inclusive research that fully considers women's unique health experiences and hormonal impacts. Recognizing and addressing these issues is crucial for enhancing healthcare practices and improving outcomes for women at different stages of life.
The Role of Estradiol and Other Hormones
Estradiol is identified as a key hormone impacting brain health, particularly during menopause, but others such as progesterone and testosterone also play significant roles. The interplay of these hormones influences cognitive functions and physical health, with fluctuations possibly leading to symptoms like brain fog and mood swings. Research points to how estrogen receptors, abundant in women's brains, are crucial for various brain activities and health. Understanding these hormonal interactions allows for better management of menopause-related symptoms and overall health.
Innovations and Changes in Hormone Replacement Therapy
The past decade has seen a renewed focus on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), particularly post-Women's Health Initiative, with a move towards safer, bioidentical hormones. Educating women about the benefits and potential risks associated with HRT is essential for informed decision-making. New formulations are being developed that specifically target brain health while minimizing risks associated with traditional hormone therapies. For women currently experiencing menopause, starting HRT early, along with lifestyle modifications, may support better overall health outcomes.
Lifestyle Interventions for Brain Health
Implementing lifestyle interventions such as regular exercise, a balanced diet high in fiber and antioxidants, and stress reduction techniques can significantly enhance brain health during menopause. Aerobic and strength training exercises are particularly effective in alleviating menopause symptoms and supporting cognitive function. Nutrition plays a vital role, with emphasis on fiber intake and antioxidants to combat oxidative stress related to hormonal changes. Additionally, managing stress through enjoyable activities is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance and overall well-being.
I am delighted and honored today to interview Dr. Lisa Mosconi. She is an Associate Professor of Neuroscience in neurology and radiology at Cornell Medicine and Director of the Women's BRAIN Initiative and the Alzheimer's Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine, New York Presbyterian Hospital. She is also a globally acclaimed neuroscientist with a Ph.D. in neuroscience and nuclear medicine and the author of the New York Times bestseller The XX Brain and, more recently, The Menopause Brain.
In our conversation, we discuss how women’s brains change during perimenopause and menopause, looking at the significance of puberty, pregnancy, and perimenopause, as well as the lack of medical research on women and medical gaslighting. We explore the concept of bikini medicine and its misconceptions regarding women's health and hormones alongside the crucial roles of hormones like estradiol, progesterone, and testosterone in our neuroendocrine system. Dr. Mosconi also provides insights into evolving menopausal treatments, including lifestyle interventions.
Dr. Mosconi is an esteemed figure in neuroscience and a prominent voice in women's health. I am confident you will gain valuable insights and perspectives from my discussion with her today.
IN THIS EPISODE YOU WILL LEARN:
How women's brains change during perimenopause and menopause
How the lack of information for young girls can lead to medical gaslighting and confusion during perimenopause
Dr. Mosconi explains how a simple sugar is used as a tracer to track glucose metabolism in the brain during perimenopause
Why brain changes during menopause may lead to mental fatigue and brain fog
How the lack of training and research on menopause in medical residency programs leads to a poor understanding among clinicians
Why women need to consider their brain and metabolic health during perimenopause