Wise Women Conversations

In today's episode, we'll be discussing an intriguing topic: intermittent fasting for women in menopause. Menopause brings about various changes in our bodies, and exploring different strategies to support our well-being is essential. So, let's dive into the world of intermittent fasting and its potential benefits and considerations specifically tailored to women in menopause. Definitions Intermittent Fasting: Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of fasting and periods of eating. It involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting, typically in specific time windows. The fasting periods are longer than the typical overnight fast and can range from several hours to a full day or more. There are various intermittent fasting methods, such as the 16/8 method (16 hours of fasting, 8 hours of eating) or alternate-day fasting, where fasting and non-fasting days alternate. Restricted Time Eating (also known as Time-Restricted Eating): Restricted time eating is a

This week’s episode of the Menopause Conversations Podcast is all about gut health and the role that your gut bacteria plays in balancing your hormones and supporting your brain health as you move through your menopause transition. We will be covering the following topics: 1 – why having a healthy gut is vital for balancing your hormones 2 – the importance of a healthy gut brain connection when it comes to moods and brain function 3 – some simple steps you can take to improve your gut function Let’s start with the role of specific gut bacteria required to balance your hormones. These bacteria are know as your Estrobolome.  The estrobolome refers to a group of bacteria in the gut microbiome that plays a crucial role in activating and regulating estrogen in the body. It influences estrogen metabolism and balance, which can impact various aspects of our health, particularly during menopause.  When the estrobolome is unhealthy or imbalanced, it can contribute to issues such as heavy bleeding, uterine fibroids, br

In this episode, we will address some of the misconceptions surrounding Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and offer alternative approaches to navigating the menopause transition. Let's dive in and explore five key points from this episode: HRT is not a cure-all: I've noticed a lot of chatter on social media claiming that HRT is the only way to alleviate menopause symptoms and prevent conditions like osteoporosis, heart disease, and dementia. However, it's crucial to understand that there is no definitive research supporting these claims. While HRT may reduce the risk of osteoporosis, there are other effective strategies for managing bone health that I discussed in a previous episode. Non-HRT options exist: Many women I speak with are hesitant to take HRT, either due to personal health concerns or simply a preference for alternative methods. I want you to know that there are numerous options available that can help you effectively manage symptoms, lose weight, and thrive during menopause without

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we shine a spotlight on the crucial role of magnesium during the menopause transition. We will discuss the significance of addressing magnesium deficiency and highlights its benefits in restoring hormonal balance. Here are five key takeaways from the episode: Magnesium deficiency is common: Due to depleted soil, most of our food lacks sufficient magnesium. Coupled with high stress levels, women in perimenopause often experience magnesium deficiency. Supplementing with magnesium is essential for optimal health. Calming the nervous system and stress response: Magnesium plays a vital role in modulating the HPA axis, our stress response system. By ensuring sufficient magnesium levels, we can effectively manage stress and prevent a prolonged stress response, leading to improved overall well-being. Balancing blood sugar levels and insulin: As estrogen levels decrease during menopause, women may become insulin resistant, leading to weight gain and potential health iss

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, Angela addresses the common use of the term "oestrogen deficiency" and why it is misleading in relation to menopause. She highlights several key points that challenge the notion of menopause as a disease and emphasize the importance of understanding the natural process. Here are five key takeaways from the episode: Menopause is not a disease: Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the transition to the end of a woman's reproductive years. It is experienced by all women who have had a period, and it should not be considered a disease or disorder. Menopause is not oestrogen deficiency: While oestrogen levels do drop during and after menopause, it is incorrect to label menopause as oestrogen deficiency. The body naturally lowers oestrogen levels because it is no longer preparing for pregnancy. Oestrogen deficiency implies that there is something wrong with women, which is not the case. Symptoms associated with menopause: Many symptoms t

Welcome to the Menopause Conversations podcast. In today's episode, we'll delve into the fascinating topic of bone health during menopause. We'll explore the common misconceptions surrounding bone density measurements, the significance of osteopenia, the importance of bone strength versus density, and practical strategies to maintain strong and resilient bones as you age. So, let's dive in and unravel the complexities of bone health in menopause. Key Points: Bone Density Measurements: Bone density is commonly measured using a DEXA scan, which provides T-scores and Z-scores. T-scores compare bone density to that of a healthy 30-year-old, disregarding age and other factors. Z-scores compare bone density to people of the same age, sex, and ethnic background, providing a more accurate assessment. Osteopenia: Osteopenia is a term used to describe lower bone density that is one to two standard deviations below the average for a healthy 30-year-old. It is not a medical diagnosis but indicates a highe

In this episode of Menopause Conversations, we delve into the topic of menopause and the shame that often surrounds it. As a female podcaster, I understand the importance of open discussions about menopause and aim to empower women through knowledge and support. Let's explore the key points discussed in this episode: Breaking the Silence: Menopause is often considered a taboo subject, leading to a lack of understanding and shame. Many women hesitate to even mention the word "menopause" due to societal stigmas and the fear of being judged. Changing the Narrative: While progress has been made in recent years, there is still lingering shame and misconceptions around menopause. Women's bodies are remarkable, capable of menstruation, pregnancy, and childbirth. Yet, the very process that allows for these miracles is often shrouded in shame and silence. Taboos Around Periods: The shame associated with menopause can be traced back to the secrecy and taboo surrounding periods. In the past, discu

In this episode, I want to touch on the topic of diet culture and its significant impact on the menopause journey for women. If you're a woman who is anywhere in the middle of the menopause transition (around 40 and above), this episode is especially relevant to you. I personally grew up in the era of low-fat and low-carb diets, where going on various restrictive diets was the norm in an attempt to lose weight. However, what many of us didn't realize is that these dieting practices were actually impacting our experience of the menopause transition. As a podcaster focused on supporting women through this transformative phase, I often receive criticism for seemingly perpetuating the diet culture that pressures women to conform to a certain body image. However, I want to clarify that my program is not about diets. It's about empowering women to reconnect with their bodies, listen to their bodies, and restore hormonal balance by truly understanding how their bodies work and what is best for them. I,

Welcome back to another episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast! Today we're going to delve into the fascinating world of genetics and how it influences your journey through menopause. We'll also explore the concept of epigenetics and why it's crucial, especially as you navigate the various symptoms of menopause. Understanding epigenetics empowers you to take control of your experiences. So, grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let's dive right in! In this episode: 1. Unraveling Genetics: We'll start by demystifying genetics and DNA. Genetics refers to your unique DNA sequence, the study of which provides insights into your physical health attributes, such as eye color, hair color, and height. We'll also explore genes associated with specific health conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. While genes can predispose you to certain conditions, it doesn't mean you're destined to experience them. We'll debunk the myth that you have no control over your gen

In this episode, Angela shares her recent experience of moving to a new home in regional Queensland and the impact it had on her health. She talks about how the stress of the move caused her body to become imbalanced, resulting in symptoms such as insomnia, body aches, and a weakened immune system. She emphasizes that this experience is common for many women who are dealing with a lot of stress in their lives and not taking care of their health needs. Angela shares that once she was able to address the stress by eating the right foods and getting back into a routine, her symptoms disappeared, and she began to feel great again. She emphasizes that addressing stress is crucial for maintaining women's health and encourages listeners to identify what works best for them in terms of personalized health needs.

Welcome back to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast. This week's topic is metabolic syndrome, specifically insulin resistance, and its impact on menopause and weight gain. Key messages: · Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition that involves a group of risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and other health problems · Insulin resistance is a form of metabolic syndrome that can develop over time and has symptoms such as high blood sugar levels, increased hunger, and difficulty losing weight · Insulin is a hormone that helps the body take up glucose from food and store it in cells for energy · When the cells are full, insulin stores the excess glucose as fat, primarily around the waist · Insulin resistance occurs when the body continually puts glucose into the body through food, and insulin has to store it as fat after the cells are full · Low-fat diets and artificial sweeteners can trigger insulin resistance and lead to weight gain · Women

Welcome to this week's episode of Menopause Conversations podcast. In this episode, we discuss the importance of chronobiology and how understanding your personal biorhythm can positively impact your health, especially during menopause. Chronobiology refers to the study of the body's natural rhythms and cycles, including your sleep cycles, eating cycles, and movement cycles. As women, we are highly dependent on cycles, including your menstrual cycles, daily cycles, and seasonal cycles. Your personal biorhythms are essential to your health, and being out of alignment with them can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, depression, sleep disorders, and hormonal imbalances. The host shares her personal story of discovering her natural sleep cycle and how making a simple change to her exercise routine improved her health. She emphasizes that each person is unique and that understanding one's personal biorhythm is crucial to living a healthy life during menopause. Angela also shares the story of one of her c

In this episode, we dive into the topic of menopause and the challenges that women face during this time. Our host shares her own personal journey and experiences with menopause, including symptoms such as hot flushes, joint pain, weight gain, and difficulty sleeping. She also touches on the importance of understanding the concept of bio individuality and how it applies to a healthy diet and lifestyle. Key Points: Our host experienced symptoms of menopause despite eating a healthy diet and taking supplements. She initially tried to lose weight through diets, but realized that diets do not work for everyone, especially during menopause. The concept of bio individuality suggests that every woman's experience of menopause is different, and therefore a generalized approach to diet and lifestyle does not work. The host suggests avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and hot chili foods to help with hot flushes and eating more vegetables to improve overall health. It is important to find an individual solution that w

In this first episode for 2023, we will be discussing Phytoestrogens, a natural way to regulate hormones during menopause. Introduction Welcome to Menopause Conversations for 2023 Introduction to the topic of Phytoestrogens and their role in regulating hormones during menopause Importance of understanding natural ways to manage hormones during menopause What are Phytoestrogens? Definition: compounds found in certain foods that mimic the effect of estrogen in the body Regulate hormones by filling up estrogen receptors in the body and clearing excess estrogens Common sources: soy, flaxseed, sesame seeds Benefits of Phytoestrogens Soybeans can reduce hot flushes, night sweats, improve vaginal dryness, and improve bone health Flaxseed can bring down hot flushes and improve cardiovascular health Sesame seeds are good for cardiovascular health, rich in zinc which is important for skin, bones, brain health, immune system and more. Research on Phytoestrogens A study published in the Journal o

In this episode of Menopause Conversations I chat with Beverley Webb from Step Forward Coaching. Beverley had a really tough childhood but she managed to survive and eventually become a very successful business woman. But Beverley hadn’t left the trauma of her childhood behind her, it started to show up in her health and also her relationship with her children. After losing everything, including her health, Beverley saw this as the chance to remove the masks that she had been hiding behind and find her voice. Once Beverley healed the trauma of her childhood she knew that she had to help others find their voice as well. As a constant high achiever managed to retrain as a coach in a short time frame so that she could start helping others as soon as she could. Beverley that silence makes the guilt and shame worse, this is why she believes it is her legacy is to use her voice to help others and she does this every single day with her words and her actions. This was a truly inspiring conversation that I thoroughly

This episode of Menopause Conversations Podcast is a little different from normal. The first difference is that I have a Wise Man on the podcast rather than a Wise Woman. The second difference is the topic – saving children from sex trafficking. I wish that I didn’t have to have this conversation with Marc but the work that Marc does with Destiny Rescue is real and it is needed. Destiny Rescue is a Not-for-Profit organisation started in Australia over 18 years ago and is dedicated to fighting the trafficking and sexual exploitation of children in seven nations. Their highly trained agents run covert and raid rescue operations, day and night to locate and rescue children being used and abused. With the ongoing support of generous donors, Destiny Rescue has successfully liberated over 5,200 individual victims of human trafficking. They have been instrumental in the closing of many bars, clubs and brothels known to be targeting children for sex work and have seen numerous perpetrators prosecuted. Their tireless

In this week’s episode of Menopause Conversations I am speaking to Doris Mounsey about her health journey and how that led her to experience medically induced menopause. I often speak about natural menopause but when you have medical conditions or treatments that result in you being in menopause prematurely things can be very different. Women in this situation often experience sudden and severe symptoms as the body has to quickly adjust to the dramatic loss of hormones. This was Doris’s experience and she was left feeling lost and alone as the Drs didn’t really have any solutions for her. Have a listen to the story that Doris has to share, of how she found a way to manage her symptoms naturally and now helps other women who are on a similar journey to what Doris has been on. If you have enjoyed this episode or any of the previous episodes of Menopause Conversations please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or wherever you are listening to this podcast.

This week's episode of Menopause Conversations was a fun one when I had Bron Roberts who is a Laughter Yoga Teacher. I had heard of laughter yoga before but I wanted to find out more. Bron shares the years when she lost her laughter and what she did to get it back. Bron also found that laughter got her through some tough times when her Mother was very sick. There was so much fun and laughter throughout this episode particularly when Bron shares the story of the time she turned "crazy old lady" to get a flight upgrade. Bron has so many fun stories to share and she is proud of her "crazy old lady" status. You will also learn a quick exercise to help you start laughing, follow along with Bron and I guarantee no matter what mood you are in, you will very quickly feel your mood lift as you experience the healing effect of laughter. If you want to learn more about Bron you can visit her website or find her on LinkedIn as Bron Roberts.

What happens to relationships as you move through your menopause years? For some women it is a time of new beginnings, for others it is a time of endings. In this week’s episode of the Menopause Conversations podcast I chat with Couples Counsellor Iman Iskander. Iman shares the different stages a relationship goes through and what happens if we happen to get stuck at a particular stage of relationship development. We also talk about women who “stay for the kids” and what happens once their kids are older and no longer dependent on them. Relationships with one person for a lifetime can be hard, but are we really supposed to be with the same person for our entire adult life? This is the question that I ask Iman and she shares different research studies that show whether this is a good thing or not. This leads to a conversation about different cultures and how they see relationships and the role of women. This was a great conversation and I am grateful to Iman for share her expertise in this episode, it certainl

In this week's episode of Menopause Conversations I am talking with Janet McGeever who is the Co-Author of Tantric Sex and Menopause (with Diana Richardson). This was a beautiful conversation with Janet gently sharing how it is possible to be intimate after menopause despite the changes that happening in our bodies. Janet's book and this conversation is about relearning what we think we know about intimate relationships. She shares the importance of understanding energy, receiving and giving, when it comes to intimacy. I really enjoyed this conversation with Janet, her voice is so gentle and she holds space while we talk about a topic that can be a sensitive one for many women. I thoroughly enjoyed reading her book and had many ahha moments as I was reading through. There is so much that we can still learn about intimate relationships, things that are completely different to what we have learnt in the past. I hope that you enjoy this conversation and if you would like to learn more about Janet you can visit h