Hormones and Health: Understanding Adrenal Fatigue and HRT in Midlife

Hormones and Health: Understanding Adrenal Fatigue and HRT in Midlife

Author: Amy Sherman | Beauty Creator March 6, 2025 Duration: 51:57

REPLAY - Some of our recent popular episodes to get ready for the new season of Nirvana Sisters...

In this episode of the Nirvana Sisters Podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Dr. Elizabeth Poyner, a gynecological oncologist and expert in midlife women's health. Dr. Poyner shared her extensive knowledge on the intersection of hormonal health, stress management, and overall well-being for women, particularly during midlife.

We kicked off the conversation by discussing our personal "nirvana" moments of the week, highlighting the joy of seasonal changes and family milestones. Dr. Poyner then delved into her journey from specializing in cancer surgery to focusing on midlife women's health, emphasizing the importance of understanding how stress impacts our bodies and the role of hormones in managing that stress.

A significant portion of our discussion centered around adrenal fatigue and HPA axis dysregulation, with Dr. Poyner clarifying the differences between adrenal fatigue and adrenal insufficiency. She explained how chronic stress can lead to dysregulated cortisol production, affecting our overall health.

We also explored the importance of androgens, particularly testosterone and DHEA, in women's health. Dr. Poyner highlighted the benefits of these hormones for mood, cognitive function, and overall vitality, while also discussing the various methods of hormone delivery, including creams and troches.

As we moved into the topic of brain health, Dr. Poyner shared alarming statistics about women's risk of dementia and the protective role of estrogen. She emphasized the importance of starting hormone replacement therapy early in the menopause transition to potentially reduce dementia risk.

Finally, we wrapped up the episode with Dr. Poyner's recommendations for supplements that can support midlife health, including vitamin D, omega-3s, and magnesium, and the significance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle through exercise and community engagement.

This episode was packed with valuable insights and practical advice for women navigating midlife health challenges. We hope our listeners find this information empowering as they strive for their own nirvana in health and well-being.


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There’s a particular kind of noise in the beauty and wellness world that can feel exhausting, especially when you’re past forty and just want practical, real advice. Wellness Junkies cuts through that clutter. Hosted by Amy Sherman, a seasoned beauty creator, this weekly conversation feels like a chat with a knowledgeable friend who’s done the trial and error for you. Each episode focuses on what actually works, from navigating skin changes and hormone health to finding fitness that fits your life and decoding the latest product claims. You’ll hear honest reviews, smart shopping hacks, and deep dives into topics like peri-menopause and holistic self-care, all aimed at feeling confident and well without the pretense. It’s a space dedicated to making smarter, more informed choices for your routine, emphasizing that wellness isn’t about perfection but about sustainable practices that make you feel your best. Tune in for grounded, relatable talk that respects your time and intelligence, offering a sense of community and clarity in every episode of this essential podcast.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 212

Wellness Junkies | Beauty & Wellness Tips, Hacks, Recs & Reviews for Women 40+
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