Dr. Nitu Bajekal, gynaecologist and obstetrician, discusses topics like endometriosis, its prevalence, and the impact of diet and soy on it. They also talk about the oral contraceptive pill, its benefits, and risks. The podcast covers the relationship between endometriosis and fertility, as well as the link between endometriosis and irritable bowel syndrome. The guest shares insights on the female reproductive system, importance of body knowledge, and the controversy surrounding soy. They emphasize the significance of early detection and seeking help for endometriosis, along with discussing factors affecting fertility.
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Quick takeaways
Self-awareness and knowledge about one's body are crucial for women's health and well-being.
Understanding the stages of the female reproductive system allows individuals to monitor their reproductive health and seek appropriate care.
Lifestyle changes, including a plant-based diet, exercise, stress management, and quality sleep, can improve fertility in individuals with endometriosis.
Regular exercise, stress management, and quality sleep are important lifestyle factors for managing endometriosis symptoms.
Deep dives
Understanding the importance of blood work and convenient tracking with Inside Tracker
Regular blood work is crucial for monitoring and understanding our cardiometabolic and hormonal health. Inside Tracker provides a convenient and evidence-based way to organize blood draws and receive lifestyle recommendations based on personalized test results. The app allows easy access to past results and trends, making it a valuable tool for tracking and optimizing health.
Optimizing a plant-based diet with supplements from Ameal
While a food-first approach is essential for a healthy plant-based diet, supplements can help optimize nutrient intake and fill nutritional gaps. Ameal offers plant-based products like the Essential 8 multivitamin and the optimal omega plus, which provide key nutrients often lacking in plant-based diets. These supplements are evidence-based and support overall health and well-being.
Expert insights on women's health and the importance of self-awareness
Dr. Neetu Pajekal, a gynecologist, emphasizes the significance of self-awareness and knowledge about one's own body when it comes to women's health. Through her personal experiences and medical expertise, she encourages women to be proactive in understanding their reproductive system, menstrual cycle, and general health. Being knowledgeable and informed can empower women to take charge of their well-being and seek appropriate medical guidance.
Understanding the female reproductive system and the stages of life
Dr. Neetu Pajekal provides a clear overview of the female reproductive system and highlights the important stages of a person assigned female at birth's life that are related to the reproductive system. These stages include the onset of menstruation, the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause. Understanding these stages and the associated health concerns allows individuals to monitor their reproductive health and seek appropriate care when needed.
Endometriosis and Fertility
Endometriosis can affect fertility, causing complications and reducing the chances of getting pregnant. Depending on the stage and severity, surgery may be necessary, along with hormonal medications. Lifestyle changes, including a plant-based diet, regular exercise, stress management, avoiding risky substances, and getting quality sleep, can also help improve fertility.
Diagnosis and Screening of Endometriosis
Diagnosing endometriosis can be challenging, and it often takes several years to receive a proper diagnosis. However, there are promising developments in the form of a blood test that can detect endometriosis cells. Screening and early detection remain crucial in identifying the condition and addressing it promptly.
The Role of Soy and Diet in Endometriosis
While more studies are needed specifically on endometriosis, a predominantly whole food plant-based diet, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and herbs, can reduce inflammation and estrogen levels. Soy, in particular, has shown benefits in managing endometriosis symptoms and reducing estrogen-related health issues.
Lifestyle Factors to Manage Endometriosis
In addition to diet, several lifestyle factors can assist in managing endometriosis. Regular exercise can aid in washing away prostaglandins and reducing painful periods. Stress management techniques, social connections, avoiding risky substances like tobacco and alcohol, and prioritizing quality sleep are important considerations for overall well-being and managing endometriosis symptoms.
In Episode #155, I sat down with gynaecologist and obstetrician Nitu Bajekal to talk about endometriosis and the female reproductive system.
In this episode, we covered what endometriosis is, how prevalent it is, whether it’s affected by diet and soy, and its implications for fertility and general lifestyle. We also discussed the oral contraceptive pill and whether the benefits outweigh the risks.
For more insights and reflections, visit The Proof website for the full show notes.
Enjoy, friends.
Simon
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Simon Hill, MSc, BSc (Hons)
Creator of theproof.com and host of The Proof with Simon Hill
Author of The Proof is in the Plants
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