The Girlfriend Doctor: Navigating Menopause with Humor, Heart, and Hormonal Wisdom

In this episode, Michelle welcomes the dynamic Dr. Anna Cabeca, a triple board-certified expert in women's health and the author of several best-selling books, including "The Hormone Fix." Dr. Anna, affectionately known as the "girlfriend doctor," shares her personal journey through menopause and offers invaluable insights into the hormonal changes women experience during this transformative phase of life. They delve into the critical roles of progesterone and oxytocin, the importance of maintaining a healthy balance of hormones, and practical dietary strategies tailored for menopausal women.  Grab your copy of Michelle's You, Me Conquering Perimenopause & Menopause on Amazon now: https://amzn.eu/d/j9xCawt  KEY TAKEAWAYS Menopause is a natural transition, and while it is mandatory, suffering through it is optional. It's essential to understand the hormonal changes, particularly the significant drop in progesterone and its effects on mood, sleep, and overall health. Progesterone plays a crucial role beyond reproductive health; it supports mental well-being by aiding in the production of serotonin and melatonin. This hormone is vital for mood stabilization, sleep quality, and cognitive function, making it important for women to advocate for its use, even post-hysterectomy. The Keto Green diet emphasizes achieving ketosis while incorporating alkalinizing foods. This approach helps manage weight, improve mental clarity, and support hormonal balance, particularly beneficial for menopausal women who may struggle with insulin resistance and weight gain. Oxytocin, known as the love hormone, can counteract the negative effects of cortisol, the stress hormone. Engaging in activities that promote oxytocin production, such as physical touch, laughter, and gratitude, can significantly improve emotional and physical well-being during menopause. Women should focus on individualized health strategies, recognizing that what works for one person may not work for another. Simple steps, such as checking urine pH, adjusting dietary approaches, and incorporating daily practices that enhance mood and well-being, can lead to significant improvements in managing menopausal symptoms. BEST MOMENTS "Where menopause is natural and mandatory, suffering is optional. We shouldn't suppress this major transformation in our lives any more than we would suppress puberty." "Progesterone is effective for the brain, the memory, the mood, our sense of peace within our body. It helps with our bones and breast health." "It's shocking that even some gynecologists are saying, 'Oh, it increased the risk of cancer,' which for most women would be like, 'Oh, yeah, I don't want it then.'" "Oxytocin is the most powerful hormone in our body. It balances all these reproductive hormones to a significant degree." "What do you need to refine in your life that works for you versus against you? Is it that you need to take that daily walk?" GUEST SOCIALS https://drannacabeca.com https://www.facebook.com/DrAnnaCabeca https://www.instagram.com/thegirlfrienddoctor HOST BIO Michelle is a highly respected Physiotherapist and Menopause Wellbeing Practitioner with over two decades of experience in the health and wellness industry. After experiencing seven years of debilitating symptoms herself before realising it was perimenopause, Michelle has since dedicated her career to helping other women navigate this transformative stage of life. Her personal journey fuels her passion for educating and empowering women, as well as training businesses and health professionals through her specialised menopause and wellbeing workshops. A best-selling author and sought-after speaker, Michelle combines deep clinical expertise with relatable, real-world experience. Through her podcast, "Menopause - The Real Deal," she offers evidence-based guidance, authentic conversations, and practical strategies. Listeners trust Michelle for her empathetic understanding and her commitment to helping women thrive, making her a leading voice in the menopause space. www.panaceapause.co.uk @MenopauseTheRealDeal @Michelle_rowlinson