243. The Menstrual Cycle, Midlife and Metabolic Health (Lara Briden)

Today we’re welcoming back our most popular guest on the Menstruality podcast, naturopathic doctor, Lara Briden, who has previously offered holistic health guidance for menstrual, perimenopause and menopause health challenges which has helped thousands of our listeners. Today we’re geeking out about a vitally important, but often misunderstood aspect of our physical and mental health.As Lara describes, we’re experiencing a global crisis in metabolic health on the planet today, with over 40% of people in many countries living with insulin resistance, which has serious health implications throughout the body. In our conversation today we explore what’s at the root of these metabolic challenges, how they are impacting us - particularly when it comes to menstrual challenges and menopause - and most importantly, why it’s not our fault.Lara speaks to the systemic issues that have given birth to this health crisis, and some practical ways to create lifestyle shifts to move towards better metabolic health, as well as turn the ship around collectively when it comes to our food systems, endocrine disrupting ‘forever’ chemicals and ultra-processed food. These shifts are especially important for those dealing with menstrual health challenges, or navigating the life transitions of perimenopause and menopause, as well as pregnancy and post-partum if they are part of our path. We explore:The complex interplay of insulin resistance and women’s health, particularly for those experiencing PMOS (previously known as PCOS), PMDD and other premenstrual mood challenges, and perimenopause. We break down terms like metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance, as well as defining ultra-processed food, and how it’s contributing to menstrual and menopausal health challenges. Disconnecting metabolic health from body shape and size, and the importance of not comparing yourself to others when it comes to reversing insulin resistance and moving towards metabolic health.---Receive our free video training: Love Your Cycle, Discover the Power of Menstrual Cycle Awareness to Revolutionise Your Life - www.redschool.net/love---The Menstruality Podcast is hosted by Red School. We love hearing from you. To contact us, email [email protected] media:Red School: @redschool - https://www.instagram.com/red.schoolSophie Jane Hardy: @sophie.jane.hardy - https://www.instagram.com/sophie.jane.hardyLara Briden - @larabriden - https://www.instagram.com/larabriden/