The DUTCH Podcast

Dr. Sara Szal, a Harvard-trained gynecologist and author of 'The Autoimmune Cure', discusses the rising rates of autoimmunity in women, emphasizing the role of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause. She highlights the importance of understanding root causes, like gut health and genetics, and advocates for personalized approaches to managing conditions. The podcast also explores dietary diversity for gut health and compares hormonal assessment methods, relating them back to overall wellness during life transitions.

In this conversation, Dr. Carrie Jones and Dr. Jaclyn discuss the challenges that providers face when learning about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause. They highlight the confusion and conflicting information surrounding HRT and the need for a comprehensive and evidence-based approach. They also introduce a new educational course from DUTCH, Introduction to Hormone Replacement Therapy, which aims to provide a clear and practical guide for providers looking to incorporate HRT into their practice.   Dr. Jaclyn and Dr. Carrie also discuss:  The core hormones involved in HRT, including estradiol, progesterone, and DHEA Different forms and routes of administration  The importance of understanding the evidence and guidelines for HRT The need for individualized patient assessment and testing Controversies and common questions surrounding HRT  Show Notes: Sign up to get early access to the Introduction to Hormone Replacement Therapy course. This course is exclusive to registered DUTCH Providers – become a DUTCH Provider today!  Follow Dr. Carrie Jones on Instagram @dr.carriejones. 

Tom Guilliams, a dietary supplement expert and founder of the Point Institute, joins Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton to decode the HPA axis's role in stress and health. They explore how cortisol affects metabolism and discuss the impact of early life stressors. The conversation touches on circadian rhythms, gut inflammation, and the link to obesity. They also delve into holistic approaches for HPA dysfunction, emphasizing adaptogens and the necessity of physical activity for resilience. Gender differences in stress responses and burnout factors are highlighted for a comprehensive understanding.

In this conversation, Dr. Kara Fitzgerald discusses the intricate relationship between epigenetics and longevity, detailing her journey into the field, the design and outcomes of her Methylation Diet and Lifestyle Program, and the implications of biological age versus chronological age. She emphasizes the importance of personalized interventions and the role of environmental factors in gene expression, while also exploring various lifestyle changes that can positively impact biological aging.   Dr. Fitzgerald and Dr. Smeaton also explore:The impact of lifestyle changes on biological age  Recent studies on aging patterns The significance of hormonal health, especially for women How small daily changes can lead to significant improvements in health span The importance of DUTCH testing in understanding hormonal patterns and its relevance in aging discussions Show Notes Learn more about Dr. Kara Fitzgerald and check out her book, Younger You.  Follow Dr. Kara Fitzgerald on Instagram @drkarafitzgerald. Become a DUTCH Provider to learn more about using the DUTCH Test in your practice. 

In this episode, professional CrossFit athlete, Brent Fikowski, shares his journey from a competitive athlete in volleyball to becoming the world-ranked #3 CrossFit competitor. He discusses the evolution of his training, the importance of listening to his body to prevent injuries, and the crucial roles that nutrition and hormones play in his performance and recovery.  Brent and Dr. Jaclyn also discuss: - The intricate relationship between hormonal changes, stress, and athletic performance - Using the DUTCH Test to monitor hormone levels for optimal performance - Brent’s personal experience with managing his cortisol levels - The significance of lifestyle choices and accountability  - Brent’s journey with developing a high-performance mindset Show Notes:Follow Brent’s journey on Instagram @fikowski. Learn more about cortisol and the DUTCH Test in our episode Understanding Cortisol Curves. Become a DUTCH Provider to get access to free educational resources, expert clinical support, peer-reviewed and validated research, and comprehensive patient reports. 

Esther Blum, an integrative dietician with 30 years of experience, shares insights on perimenopause and menopause. She highlights the complex symptoms women face during these transitions and the critical role of hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The conversation emphasizes the importance of early intervention and personalized care, urging women to advocate for their health. They also discuss how lifestyle changes, nutrition, and exercise can alleviate symptoms, empowering women to navigate their menopausal journey with confidence.

In this episode of the DUTCH Podcast, Dr. Smeaton interviews Dr. Tara Scott, a hormone expert, to discuss hormone therapy (HRT) in the context of breast cancer awareness month. They delve into the definitions of HRT and its recent resurgence in media discussions, sparked by celebrities like Gwyneth Paltrow and Halle Berry. Dr. Scott also covers: The distinction between bioidentical and synthetic hormones, clarifying that bioidentical hormones mimic what the body produces  The updated recommendations from the North American Menopause Society, which state that HRT is not universally necessary but should be an option based on individual risk factors The controversial use of testosterone in women The differing guidelines for men and women regarding hormone therapy  The importance of understanding the risks and benefits of HRT, particularly concerning breast cancer Show Notes: Check out the global testosterone therapy study, the NAMS article about misinformation on HRT, and Versalie. Learn more about Dr. Tara Scott @HormoneGuruMD on Instagram. Become a DUTCH Provider to learn more about using hormone replacement therapy in your practice and how the DUTCH Test can help. 

In this episode, Dr. Anna Cabeca and Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton discuss the multifaceted nature of fertility, exploring the impact of ovarian health, toxic burden, hormonal influences, and autoimmunity on reproductive health.  Dr. Cabeca and Dr. Smeaton also discuss: How toxic burden can significantly impact fertility and hormonal balance The importance of lifestyle factors and testing when it comes to fertility The often-overlooked role of male fertility in the conception process Taking a holistic approach to fertility that integrates both conventional and functional medicine Empowering patients in their journey toward conception Show Notes:Learn more about Dr. Anna Cabeca and her upcoming program, Magic Menopause Coaching Certification, launching October 15. Follow Dr. Anna Cabeca on Instagram @thegirlfrienddoctor. Watch Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton’s DUTCH Webinar on Fertility and the DUTCH Test to explore how the DUTCH Test can be a useful tool to explore fertility. Become a DUTCH Provider to learn more about how the DUTCH Test can help you profoundly change your patients’ lives. 

In this episode of The DUTCH Podcast, Dr. Allison Smith and Dr. Smeaton explore the topic of low estrogen in cycling females and the hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause.  Dr. Smith and Dr. Smeaton also discuss: What causes low estrogen in cycling females, such as hypothalamic suppression and genetic factors How estrogen is produced in the body The importance of estrogen in relation to bone health How estrogen levels change during perimenopause and menopause Considerations for hormone replacement therapy and the importance of individualized treatment for each patient Show Notes:Hear more about estrogen from Dr. Allison Smith in her previous episode, Estrogen Basics, and in her DUTCH Webinar, Assessment and Approach to the Estrogen Dominant Female.  Become a DUTCH Provider to discover more free educational resources from our clinical experts, comprehensive patient reports, and peer-reviewed and validated research. 

In this episode, Dr. Corina Dunlap discusses the importance of addressing libido and sexual health in women before, during, and after menopause. She emphasizes the need for open and comfortable conversations about these topics and highlights the common challenges women face in discussing their libido concerns.  Dr. Dunlap and Dr. Smeaton also cover: Hormonal shifts that can impact libido, including changes in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and oxytocin How psychological factors, such as self-image and relationship dynamics, can influence libido The importance of maintaining pelvic and vaginal health The impact of lifestyle factors like diet, exercise, and inflammation How using the DUTCH Test to evaluate hormone levels can assist in creating personalized treatment plansShow Notes: Learn more about Corina Dunlap and follow her on Instagram @drcorinadunlap. Become a DUTCH Provider to learn more about creating individualized treatment plans for your patients using the DUTCH Test.