Together, they unpacked the intricate topic of hormonal health, making it accessible and relatable, especially for women navigating the generally daunting challenges of hormonal imbalances, perimenopause, and menopause.
Laura began the conversation with a fundamental question: “What is health?”, to which Dr. Silver emphasised the importance of redefining health beyond its physical aspect. She described health as a state of optimal functioning in four key areas: physical (physical well-being), mental (mental health), societal (personal and occupational relationships), and spiritual health (spirituality, self-awareness, and growth).
She highlighted how the World Health Organization has expanded its focus on spiritual health, which includes understanding one’s unique potential and striving for personal growth and tranquillity. Understanding these dimensions is essential, as it provides a blueprint for improving one’s overall health. In order to achieve optimal comprehensive health, it is important to focus on a healthy balance of all four of these critical areas.
The mind-body connection, a concept well-supported by science and scientific literature, was stressed by Dr Silver. She described it as a fundamental principle of health and personal transformation, and how thoughts and emotions can affect body chemistry and vice versa, with hormones playing a pivotal role. For example, oestrogen and progesterone not only regulate the menstrual cycle but also influence brain chemistry. Hormones like serotonin and dopamine, responsible for mood stability and motivation, are closely connected to these female hormones. This means that mood, memory, and motivation all become symptoms of a hormonal imbalance.
A significant topic of discussion was the connection between gut health and hormones. Dr. Silver introduced the concept of the “estrobolome,” a set of gut bacteria that help metabolise oestrogen. These bacteria play a crucial role in determining how much oestrogen is reabsorbed into the bloodstream and how much is eliminated or excreted by the body, impacting hormonal balance. This ties closely to the concept of the “Gut-Brain Axis”, which explains how in the body exists a bidirectional communication network that links the enteric and central nervous systems, leading to the brain and gut being significantly connected.
Gut health also influences the production of serotonin, with more serotonin being produced in the gut than in the brain. Therefore, maintaining a healthy gut through diet, particularly one rich in fiber and probiotics, can help regulate hormone levels and improve mood and overall well-being, especially during perimenopause and menopause.
Dr. Silver explained that understanding hormonal imbalances often comes down to paying attention to symptoms. Common signs of too much oestrogen include breast sensitivity, weight gain, heavier periods, and mood swings. On the other hand, too little oestrogen, particularly during menopause, can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, joint pain, low libido, vaginal dryness, and significant depression. She emphasised the importance of finding a hormonal “sweet spot” where oestrogen and progesterone are in balance. Achieving this balance can alleviate many of the uncomfortable symptoms women can experience during hormonal fluctuations.
When hormonal imbalances occur, particularly during perimenopause, and women start to experience these symptoms, it is often the body’s way of signalling that something is off. In this way, Simone noted how it is crucial to listen and interpret these signals rather than rely solely on blood tests, which may not always detect early imbalances, as hormones fluctuate, and it can be tricky to pin down the exact problem.
In terms of perimenopause, Dr Silver stated that the main goal in achieving hormonal balance would be to make sure that oestrogen and progesterone are balanced. In a woman’s perimenopausal years, it is important to look after the gut and the liver. A high-fiber diet rich in phytoestrogens (plant-based) such as flaxseeds and legumes was recommended, as they bind to oestrogen receptors and can provide relief when hormones rise too high or low, and help support overall hormonal balance.
The benefits of natural supplements were discussed in terms of detoxification. Simone explained how detoxification is crucial for hormonal imbalances as it can affect hormones significantly. However, one should take caution when going on “detoxification hunts” and be mindful when choosing how to go about it. The liver is our primary organ for detoxification; when oestrogen arrives in the liver, it is broken down into “daughter oestrogens”, some good, some bad. One key supplement is sulforaphane, found in broccoli sprout extract, which supports the liver’s detoxification pathways. This compound helps process oestrogen, promoting the production of healthier “good” oestrogens while reducing the impact of potentially harmful “bad” oestrogens.
The conversation turned towards the topic of menopause, focusing on the long-term effects of declining oestrogen levels. The importance of informed decision-making when it comes to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was discussed. Simone noted that women must weigh the risks and benefits, especially considering the protective effects hormones can have on the heart, brain, and bones; Simone explained how menopause should be considered a multi-system experience of brain health, heart health, and joint health, and, as female hormones regulate inflammation and the immune system, HRT could be helpful for women going through menopause.
While many women fear the potential link between HRT and breast cancer, Dr. Silver encouraged them to have open discussions with their healthcare providers. With evolving research, the risks of HRT have shifted, and for many women, the benefits in terms of improved quality of life and long-term health may outweigh the risks.
During menopause, women are no longer able to produce oestrogen and progesterone anymore, however, they can produce some testosterone in the adrenal glands, the hormone responsible for libido and sex drive. Therefore, some women are able to maintain their testosterone levels after menopause, while others are not. If a woman is struggling with her, Simone recommended checking her testosterone levels.
She also recommended maintaining a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting good sleep. This may also help lower cortisol levels and minimise stress, which may, in turn, also contribute to a healthy libido and sex drive. It was also stressed that while these components are important for libido and sex drive, this is also affected by a woman’s mental state; When cortisol levels are abnormally high, one is more susceptible to Cushing’s disease, where one can get a moon face or a cortisol belly.
As an apoptogenic herb, ashwagandha has many key functions in the body and typically acts on the brain, nerves, and adrenal glands. Simone noted how it can also help manage stress, as stress is coordinated in these parts of the body. Therefore, ashwagandha can be seen as a great natural supplement to manage stress and cortisol levels during menopause. Ashwagandha can also help increase libido due to its ability to manage stress, promote relaxation, and, ultimately, improve sleep quality.
Simone suggested supplementing with a high-quality omega-3 to provide some extra lubrication and limit the potential of chronic inflammation in the body, and magnesium or vitamin D + K2 to support osteoporosis and thinning bones. However, it is important to keep monitoring vitamin D levels with blood tests, as too much can lead to dangerous levels of toxicity.
While it is recommended for women to eat a balanced diet containing these nutrients, Simone stated that vitamin D is a nutrient we will never be able to get enough of from just diet alone, but one should consult with their practitioner before starting to supplement with it. Lastly, Simone recommended that women take a good quality probiotic to protect the gut and the gut-brain axis. Simone stressed that each woman is different and should be considered with their personal, individual needs when deciding on which supplements to take to support them through the stages of menopause.
This episode of Couch Conversations offered a deep dive into the complexities of hormonal health, with Dr. Simone Silver providing insightful advice on navigating hormonal imbalances, perimenopause, and menopause. By understanding the interconnectedness of hormones, the gut, and overall health, women can take proactive steps to manage their symptoms and improve their general well-being.
If you are struggling with a hormonal imbalance or have started perimenopause or menopause, check out the Phytoceutics Hormonal Health category on our website to find the necessary supplements to support you.
*Use code COUCHCONVERSATIONS for R100 off your next online order with Phytoceutics for the month of September. *
