322: How to Optimize Fertility for Men and Women; the Truth About Hormone Replacement Therapy | Jolene Brighten, ND
Aug 30, 2023
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Jolene Brighten, a naturopathic endocrinologist, talks about optimizing fertility for both men and women, debunking misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of sperm quality. The podcast also discusses the impact of heat exposure on fertility, benefits of myo-inositol and melatonin supplements, preserving fertility through IVF, risks of twin pregnancies, and the effects of chronic stress on fat cells. They also touch upon hormone replacement therapy for perimenopausal women.
Optimizing fertility involves lifestyle choices, micronutrients, and advancements in IVF and fertility preservation techniques.
Age is not the sole determining factor for fertility decline, ovarian reserve and AMH levels are important indicators.
Understanding the process of IVF, considering thyroid health, and a personalized approach can improve outcomes.
Factors like inflammation, insulin regulation, and gut health influence fertility, emphasizing the need for comprehensive lifestyle and nutritional approaches.
Deep dives
Optimizing fertility through lifestyle and supplementation
This episode of the podcast delves into ways to optimize fertility for both men and women. The host interviews Dr. Jolene Brighten, an expert in women's medicine and naturopathic endocrinology. The conversation covers various topics, including the impact of lifestyle choices on fertility, such as avoiding smoking and exposure to certain toxins. The importance of micronutrients and supplements in boosting fertility is discussed, as well as advancements in IVF and fertility preservation techniques like egg and sperm freezing. The episode highlights the role of hormones in fertility and touches on hormone replacement therapy. Recommendations are also provided on how to enhance fertility, including the use of supplements like melatonin and myo-inositol.
Understanding fertility and the role of age
The podcast episode explains the basics of fertility and the impact of age on reproductive health. It emphasizes that fertility does not suddenly drop off at a certain age, debunking common myths surrounding fertility decline. The significance of ovarian reserve and anti-mullerian hormone (AMH) as indicators of fertility is discussed. The episode underscores the importance of consulting a reproductive endocrinologist to assess individual fertility potential and explore options like egg freezing for women in their 30s. It also addresses the misconception that fertility issues are solely linked to women, emphasizing the role of men in fertility outcomes.
IVF process and considerations
The podcast delves into the process of in vitro fertilization (IVF) and the factors to consider for successful outcomes. It outlines the various steps involved in IVF, including ovarian stimulation, egg retrieval, fertilization, embryo development, and embryo transfer. The higher risk of multiple pregnancies and associated complications like preeclampsia are discussed. The episode touches on the significance of thyroid hormone in fertility, with a case study involving optimizing thyroid medication for improved IVF outcomes. The importance of a personalized approach and consulting with a reproductive endocrinologist is emphasized.
Navigating secondary infertility and fertility optimization
The podcast explores the emotional journey of secondary infertility and highlights the importance of addressing individual factors for fertility optimization. The impact of factors like inflammation, insulin regulation, and gut and vaginal health on fertility is discussed. The significance of prenatal testing, like preimplantation genetic testing for aneuploidy (PGTA), is explained. The episode emphasizes the need for comprehensive lifestyle and nutritional approaches, such as protein intake, electrolyte balance, and circulatory support, in optimizing fertility outcomes. The host also shares personal experiences and highlights the importance of normalizing conversations around fertility.
The Importance of Being Humble and Avoiding Arrogance in Regards to Health
The podcast episode emphasizes the importance of staying humble and avoiding arrogance when it comes to our health. It reminds us that there are still many unanswered questions and that we have a lot to learn. The speaker also discusses healthy body fat percentages for men and women, highlighting the increased risk for women in terms of fertility. The danger of going below 18% body fat and the impact of caloric intake on ovulation are explored. The dangers of prescribing generic advice like 'eat less, move more' are also addressed, with an emphasis on the need for a more holistic approach to health.
The Relationship Between Body Fat Percentage, BMI, and Fertility
The podcast episode delves into the relationship between body fat percentage, BMI, and fertility. It challenges the viewpoint that BMI is a comprehensive measure of health, highlighting its limitations. The focus is on the waist-to-hip ratio as a better indicator of visceral adiposity and its potential impact on fertility. The episode also addresses weight stigmatization and the importance of evaluating individual health markers, such as lipids, blood sugar, and hormones, rather than solely relying on weight or appearance.
The Benefits of Fiber and Microbial Diversity for Health
The podcast episode explores the benefits of fiber and microbial diversity for overall health. It emphasizes the importance of consuming a variety of fiber sources, as well as seeds and nuts, to promote a robust microbiome. The impact of microbial diversity on reducing visceral adiposity and inflammation is discussed. The emphasis on including fiber-rich foods in the diet, such as berries and root vegetables, is highlighted as a means to support hormonal balance, fertility, and cardiovascular health.
The Considerations and Benefits of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Menopause
The podcast episode addresses the considerations and benefits of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in menopause. It challenges the stigma surrounding HRT and highlights its potential to improve cardiovascular health, prevent dementia, and enhance overall well-being. The importance of individualized treatment, starting closer to menopause, and monitoring hormone levels is emphasized. The episode stresses the need to weigh the risks and benefits on an individual basis and presents HRT as a viable option for managing symptoms and supporting long-term health in menopause.
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