194 - Heart Health Matters: The Hormone–Heart Connection Every Woman Needs to Know

Heart disease is the number one killer of women in Australia — causing three times more deaths than breast cancer — yet it's still rarely talked about in menopause conversations. In this episode of Hot & Healthy Menopause, Nicole van Hattem explores the powerful and often overlooked connection between hormones and cardiovascular health in midlife. As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, women experience real physiological changes that affect blood pressure, cholesterol, inflammation, weight distribution, and heart rhythm. This isn't just "getting older" — it's a hormonal shift that requires a new approach to prevention and care. In this episode, you'll learn: Why heart disease risk increases after menopause How estrogen protects your heart — and what happens when it drops The difference between good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol, and what balance to aim for Why heart attack symptoms in women often look very different to men's Which lifestyle factors have the biggest impact on heart health in midlife How caffeine, stress, sleep, movement, and nutrition influence your cardiovascular system When Menopausal Hormone Therapy (MHT) may support heart health The warning signs you should never ignore — and when to seek urgent help This episode is an essential listen for women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond who want to stay informed, proactive, and empowered about their long-term health. 🎧 If you've ever experienced palpitations, rising cholesterol, higher blood pressure, or unexplained fatigue during menopause — this conversation matters. If you're ready to reset your stress, your sleep, and your self-worth: ✅ Download your free Menopause Symptom Tracker at nicolevanhattem.com ✅ Take your Zinzino Balance Test to explore your inflammation and omega profile ✅ And join me at a Hot & Healthy Retreat to experience what calm, clarity, and confidence really feel like. And I'm here to support you to live a hot and healthy life.