Conquering Your Fibromyalgia Podcast

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode of the Conquering Your Fibromyalgia podcast, Dr. Michael Lenz delves into the complex relationship between hormones and chronic pain conditions such as fibromyalgia, migraines, dysmenorrhea, and others. The focus is on Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD), exploring the impact of estrogen and progesterone fluctuations on pain perception and symptom management. Key studies are discussed to highlight the relationship between menstrual cycles and fibromyalgia symptoms. The episode also covers the genetic, neurobiological, and environmental factors contributing to PMDD, as well as treatment options ranging from SSRIs and hormonal treatments to lifestyle changes and cognitive behavioral therapy. The intricate link between ADHD in women and mood disorders like PMDD and depression is also examined.00:00 Introduction to Hormones and Chronic Pain00:56 Understanding Hormonal Fluctuations02:26 Clinical Studies on Hormones and Pain03:48 The Role of Estrogen and Progesterone04:42 Historical Perspective on Premenstrual Disorders06:28 Diagnosing PMDD: Symptoms and Criteria07:39 Causes and Brain Sensitivity in PMDD09:35 Genetic and Neurobiological Factors10:45 Serotonin and Allopregnanolone in PMDD12:06 Stress, Inflammation, and PMDD13:33 Treatment Options: SSRIs and Hormonal Therapies16:26 Advanced Treatments and Surgical Options21:06 ADHD and Hormone-Related Mood Disorders27:43 Managing PMDD: Lifestyle and Non-Pharmacological Approaches31:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Click here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Dr. Skoglund, an associate professor specializing in ADHD and addiction, sheds light on the intricate relationship between hormones and ADHD in women. They discuss how PMS and PMDD overlap with ADHD symptoms, emphasizing that most research overlooks women. Individual responses to hormonal fluctuations and ADHD treatments are vital, advocating for personalized care. Misconceptions around ADHD in women are explored, along with the dramatic positive changes that proper diagnosis and support can foster. The conversation also highlights valuable resources and the societal impact of ADHD awareness.

In this engaging discussion, Dr. Lotta Skoglund, a Swedish psychiatrist and author, tackles the often-overlooked topic of ADHD in girls and women. She sheds light on the biological, social, and psychological factors contributing to the frequent misdiagnosis and underrecognition of female ADHD. Dr. Skoglund also delves into the impact of hormonal fluctuations on symptoms and stresses the need for tailored medical approaches. Additionally, she calls for greater awareness among healthcare professionals to better support women navigating the challenges of ADHD.

Kristen Hovet, host of 'The Other Autism Podcast' and advocate for neurodivergent health, joins Dr. Lenz to explore the intersections of chronic pain and conditions like autism and ADHD. They address the challenges in the medical system for neurodivergent individuals, emphasizing the need for early diagnosis and compassionate care. Misconceptions about fibromyalgia are debunked, highlighting it as a genuine condition. Personal stories illustrate the importance of understanding pain perception in neurodivergent populations, advocating for more tailored healthcare solutions.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this episode Dr.  Lenz, is interviewed  by Kristen Hovet, host of The Other Autism Podcast. The conversation delves into Dr. Lenz's medical background, his dedication to lifelong learning, and his focus on chronic pain syndromes such as fibromyalgia, EDS, POTS, and more. Dr. Lenz explains three types of pain: nociceptive, neuropathic, and nociplastic pain, and discusses the significant overlap between invisible illnesses and neurodivergence, including ADHD and autism. The interview sheds light on the challenges and misconceptions in diagnosing these conditions, emphasizing the need for a holistic, evidence-based approach to support patients.00:00 Introduction to the Interview00:17 Meet Dr. Michael Lenz02:50 Understanding Chronic Pain Syndromes06:27 Exploring Fibromyalgia and Related Conditions08:31 Personal Journey and Insights18:06 Challenges in Diagnosing and Treating Chronic Pain32:11 Tailoring Treatment for Neurodivergent Patients41:22 Conclusion and Next Episode Teaser Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this week's episode, we delve into Annie Kotowicz's book 'What I Mean When I Say I'm Autistic,' exploring her autistic life. The episode highlights her personal experiences before and after diagnosis, offering insights into sensory sensitivities, social interactions, and the nuances of living as an autistic adult. Addressing common misconceptions, Annie's narrative is a blend of memoir and manifesto, aimed at helping both autistic individuals and those around them better understand and appreciate the autistic mind.00:00 Introduction to This Week's Episode00:17 Inside the Mind of an Autistic Woman00:52 Understanding Autism and Its Impact02:07 The Importance of Adult Diagnosis03:13 Personal Experiences and Reflections05:41 Discovering Autism in Adulthood09:45 The Concept of Masking18:34 Sensory Sensitivity and Empathy28:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Joy Lenz, a registered dietitian from Nourish, specializes in simplifying plant-based nutrition. In this engaging discussion, she tackles the importance of fiber versus protein in diets and busts myths around protein deficiency. Joy shares practical tips on incorporating legumes, nuts, and whole grains into meals, while addressing common challenges faced during the transition to a plant-based lifestyle. She emphasizes personalized nutrition, meal planning strategies, and how to navigate dietary choices in social settings, making healthy eating fun and accessible.

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions Transitioning to a Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle: Insights For Better HealthIn this week's episode, the hosts delve into the concept of a whole foods plant-based diet, prompted by a listener question from Dan.  Joy Lenz, a registered dietitian with an extensive background in nutrition and culinary education shares her personal journey into adopting this lifestyle and explains the fundamental principles that distinguish it from vegetarian and vegan diets. The discussion covers practical tips for transitioning to a whole foods plant-based diet, including examples of breakfast, lunch, and dinner transformations and the benefits of batch cooking. Joy dispels common myths and outlines numerous health benefits, such as improved gut health, weight loss, reduced inflammation, and lower risks of chronic diseases.00:00 Introduction and Listener Question00:25 Meet Joy Lenz: A Registered Dietitian's Journey00:50 Discovering the Whole Foods Plant-Based Diet05:48 Understanding Whole Foods Plant-Based Lifestyle11:18 Health Benefits of a Plant-Based Diet17:02 Debunking Myths About Plant-Based Diets19:13 Practical Tips for Transitioning to Plant-Based Eating24:23 Meal Transformations and Batch Cooking27:57 Conclusion and Next Week's Preview Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this insightful episode, the focus is on ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder), a complex eating disorder officially recognized in 2013. The discussion covers how ARFID differs from typical picky eating, its unique characteristics, manifestation, and common misunderstandings. The episode features the personal account of a young adult dealing with ARFID alongside anxiety, neurodivergence, and chronic pain. It emphasizes holistic treatment approaches, including therapeutic relationships, gradual exposure to new foods, and a biopsychosocial spiritual environmental model. The episode wraps up with practical advice for caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals, highlighting the importance of empathy, patience, and collaboration in helping individuals with ARFID thrive. Additionally, it provides insights on how to support young adults and the importance of recognizing co-occurring conditions.00:00 Introduction to ARFID01:13 Understanding ARFID vs. Picky Eating04:02 Case Study: Navigating ARFID with Neurodivergence05:12 The Role of Gut Health in ARFID06:55 Therapeutic Approaches and Practical Advice10:56 Building Trust and Collaborative Treatment19:50 Holistic and Long-Term Strategies25:46 Conclusion and Resources Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz

Text Dr. Lenz any feedback or questions In this special two-part interview, Keira Oseroff Lambert, an expert in eating disorders, delves into the challenges surrounding food, eating, and nutrition. The discussion highlights influential models like Ellyn Satter's division of responsibility, strategies for addressing sensory sensitivities, and practical advice for supporting neurodivergent individuals. The interview provides valuable insights for parents, caregivers, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of eating behaviors.00:00 Introductions02:08 Keira's Journey and Professional Background04:24 Introduction to Ellyn Satter and Her Work06:30 Implementing Ellyn's Models in Real Life07:17 Personal Experiences and Professional Growth17:37 Practical Advice for Parents and Caregivers18:42 Challenges and Strategies for Picky Eaters39:14 Accommodating Neurodivergent Individuals51:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Clear here for the Fibromyalgia 101 link.Click here to connect with Joy Lenz. Support the showA Fibromyalgia Starter Pack, a great companion to the book Conquering Your Fibromyalgia, is now available. Dr. Michael Lenz practices general pediatrics and internal medicine primary care, seeing patients from infants through adults. In addition, he also will see patients with fibromyalgia and related problems and patients interested in lifestyle medicine and clinical lipidology. To learn more, go to ConquringYourFibromyalgia.com. Remember that while Dr. Lenz is a medical doctor, he is not your doctor. All of your signs and symptoms should be discussed with your physician. He aims to weave the best of conventional medicine with lifestyle medicine to help people with chronic health conditions live their best lives possible. Dr. Lenz hopes that the podcast, book, blog, and website serve as a trusted resource and starting point on your journey of learning to live better with fibromyalgia and related illnesses. Junior Producer- Brooklyn Lenz