Androgens in women: From excess to sensitivity with Emma Sutherland and Lara Briden

In this insightful conversation, naturopathic doctor and bestselling author Lara Briden joins Emma Sutherland to explore androgen physiology, excess, and sensitivity in women. Together they discuss the complexities of diagnosing androgen excess, including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) and adrenal-driven cases, and examine the metabolic consequences of chronically elevated androgens. They discuss the challenging clinical presentation of female pattern hair loss or androgenic hair loss talking about cause and realistic treatments. Lara shares clinical insights into testing strategies, sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) interpretation, and the bidirectional relationship between insulin resistance and androgens. Lara and Emma also discuss evidence-based nutrients such as zinc, inositol, diindolylmethane (DIM), and magnesium, as well as body identical hormones that can assist in restoring hormonal equilibrium. This episode provides practitioners with practical strategies to address androgen imbalance, interpret lab findings with confidence, and support women with integrative, evidence-informed care. Covered in this episode: (01:08) Welcome Lara Briden (01:35) What are androgens? (05:00) Androgens and PCOS (06:48) Causes of elevated androgens (10:59) Low androgens (14:32) Androgen sensitivity (17:23) Perimenopause (21:14) Female hair loss (27:36) Treatment options (32:34) Zinc, vitex and reishi (36:44) Inositol (40:20) Licorice and peony (42:07) DIM (44:15) Magnesium (47:38) Emerging research (49:58) Final remarks Find today's transcript and show notes here: https://www.bioceuticals.com.au/education/podcasts/androgens-in-women-from-excess-to-sensitivity Sign up for our monthly newsletter for the latest exclusive clinical tools, articles, and infographics: www.bioceuticals.com.au/signup/ DISCLAIMER: The information provided on fx Medicine by BioCeuticals is for educational and informational purposes only. The information provided is not, nor is it intended to be, a substitute for professional advice or care. Please seek the advice of a qualified health care professional in the event something you learn here raises questions or concerns regarding your health.