[Women’s Health] Menstrual Cycles and Menopause w/ Dr. Stephanie Estima, Anders Varner, Doug Larson, and Travis Mash #777
Dec 18, 2024
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Dr. Stephanie Estima, a chiropractic expert in female physiology and metabolism, joins the discussion to illuminate women's health, particularly menstrual cycles and menopause. They navigate the interplay of training and hormonal changes, advocating tailored workouts for strength building. Insights on intimacy reveal how hormones enhance connection, while weightlifting is highlighted as key for aging women’s health. The conversation also addresses the importance of community support through transitions like perimenopause, emphasizing open discussions about hormonal challenges.
The podcast explores the menstrual cycle phases, emphasizing how hormonal fluctuations influence women's mood, energy levels, and physiological responses.
Key dietary recommendations highlight the importance of adjusting protein and carbohydrate intake based on the menstrual cycle for optimal health and performance.
The discussion encourages strength training for women, focusing on its crucial role in enhancing metabolic health, bone density, and injury prevention, especially as they age.
Deep dives
Understanding Menstrual Cycles
The podcast discusses the different phases of the menstrual cycle and how they impact women's physiology. It breaks the cycle into two main parts: the follicular phase, starting on the first day of bleeding, and the luteal phase, which follows ovulation. During the follicular phase, hormone levels of testosterone and estrogen peak, leading to improvements in mood and energy, while the luteal phase can bring symptoms of PMS due to fluctuations in hormones. The discussion emphasizes how nutrition and training should change in response to these hormonal shifts for optimal health.
Dietary Adjustments During the Cycle
Key dietary recommendations for women throughout their menstrual cycle are shared, emphasizing the importance of protein and carbohydrate intake. In the first two weeks, women may find it helpful to slightly lower carbohydrate intake and focus on higher protein consumption, as they often feel less hungry during this time. This approach helps in reducing water retention and supports muscle performance, capitalizing on the natural energy peaks during the follicular phase. By strategically timing fasting and adjusting food intake based on hormonal changes, women can manage their weight and enhance workout effectiveness.
Training Strategies Aligned with Cycle Phases
Optimal training strategies based on the menstrual cycle are outlined, suggesting variations in volume and intensity. In the first week, an eight to twelve rep range is recommended, while heavier lifting with five to eight reps is recommended during the second week when strength peaks. As women move into the third and fourth weeks, the focus shifts back to moderate repetitions with increased volume to combat potential PMS symptoms. This structure not only helps in training effectively but also harmonizes physical training with the body's natural rhythms.
The Importance of Muscle Development
The podcast highlights the significance of weightlifting and muscle development for women, particularly as they age. Building muscle is essential for not only physical appearance but also crucial for metabolic health, bone density, and injury prevention. The dialogue underscores how lifting weights can enhance overall body composition and protect against osteoporosis, a common issue post-menopause. Listeners are encouraged to embrace strength training as an essential part of their fitness routine for long-term health benefits.
Navigating Perimenopause and Beyond
The discussion delves into the changes women face during perimenopause and menopause, advocating for both lifestyle adjustments and potential hormone replacement therapy (HRT). It is emphasized that perimenopause can begin in the late 30s and that understanding the physiological changes can aid in mental and physical health management. The podcast advocates for open conversations between partners about these changes, and the importance of empathy and support from male partners. By addressing hormonal influences, both women and men can foster healthier and more supportive relationships during significant life transitions.
Dr. Stephanie Estima is a doctor of chiropractic with a special interest in metabolism, body composition, functional neurology, and female physiology. She's been featured on Thrive Global, of the Huffington Post, has over 3.5 million article reads on Medium.com, and has helped thousands of women lose weight, regulate hormones, and get off medications with her signature program, The Estima Diet. You can hear her every week on her podcast, Better! With Dr. Stephanie.