Hormones, Metabolism & You!

49: Why You’re Aging Faster Than You Should—And How Hormones Can Fix It! with Dr. Beth McDougall

Mar 9, 2025

Dr. Beth McDougall, an integrative and functional medicine physician, sheds light on how hormones influence brain health, anxiety, and cognitive function. She reveals how bioidentical hormone therapy can enhance longevity and reduce overall mortality. Listeners learn about the myths surrounding hormone therapy and its significant role in healthy aging. Dr. McDougall emphasizes the need for personalized care in hormone balancing and discusses the benefits of testosterone and estrogen in maintaining muscle mass. A fascinating dive into hormonal health!

51:04

Episode guests

Beth McDougall, MD

AI Summary

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Hormones significantly influence mental health and cognitive function, with hormone replacement therapy effectively alleviating anxiety, depression, and memory problems during aging.

Bioidentical hormone therapy not only supports longevity by preserving muscle mass but also challenges myths regarding increased cancer risk, showcasing its efficacy in improving overall well-being.

Deep dives

The Role of Hormones in Mental Health

Hormones, particularly estrogen and testosterone, play a significant role in maintaining mental health as individuals age. As hormone levels decline, symptoms such as anxiety, depression, and memory problems often arise, particularly in women during menopause. Supplementing these hormones can alleviate such symptoms more effectively than traditional medications, which might not address the underlying hormonal deficiencies. For instance, restoring estrogen levels can improve cognitive functions, mood, and sleep quality, leading to a better overall sense of well-being.

Intro

4min

The Critical Role of Hormones in Health and Healing

2min

Hormones and Healthy Aging

31min

Navigating Hormone Balance

8min

The Benefits of Hormone Therapy for Healthy Aging

2min

Embracing Hormonal Health for Better Aging

4min

In this episode of Hormones, Metabolism, and You, Dr. Cassie Smith sits down with Dr. Beth McDougall, a pioneer in integrative and functional medicine, to discuss the profound impact of hormones on brain health, anxiety, depression, and longevity. They dive deep into how bioidentical hormone therapy (HRT) not only supports cognitive function but also reduces all-cause mortality and improves quality of life.

Dr. McDougall shares insights from the latest research on HRT, debunking myths about hormones causing cancer and highlighting their crucial role in aging well. They also discuss practical approaches to hormone balancing, the impact of testosterone and estrogen on muscle mass, and the importance of working with a provider who understands the nuances of hormone therapy.

If you've ever been concerned about hormones and their effects, this episode is a must-listen!

Key Topics Discussed:

⭐️ The role of hormones in brain health and mental clarity

⭐️The connection between hormone decline and anxiety, depression, and cognitive issues

⭐️ Why bioidentical hormone therapy (HRT) lowers all-cause mortality

⭐️ The latest research debunking the myth that HRT increases cancer risk

⭐️Testosterone and estrogen’s role in maintaining muscle mass and longevity

⭐️ The importance of working with a knowledgeable provider for hormone balancing

⭐️ Different forms of hormone replacement: patches, creams, injections, and more

⭐️ The common pitfalls of pellet therapy and why customization matters

Products, Tools & Resources Mentioned:

Bioidentical Hormone Therapy (HRT) – Discussed as a key factor in longevity and brain health
Read more about HRT and longevity
Lisa Mosconi's Study on Estrogen and Brain Health – Published in Nature (2024)
Lisa Mosconi’s study in Nature
10 Million Women Study on HRT & Mortality – Journal of the Menopause Society (May 2024)
10 Million Women Study on HRT & Mortality
DHEA & Pregnenolone Supplements – Used for adrenal support and hormone balance
Calcium D-Glucarate – Aids in estrogen metabolism
Testosterone Therapy for Women – Addressing libido, energy, and cognitive function
Article on Testosterone Therapy for Women (Vogue)
Dr. Beth McDougall’s Book: Your Pristine Blueprint
Jyzen Bio-Optimization Center – Where Dr. McDougall practices