Radio Naturopath Episode 515: Black Box Warning Gone! Why Hormone Replacement in Menopause May Be Helpful, and Non-Hormonal Alternatives

This week, I talked about the removal of the black box warning on hormone replacement therapy. Evidence shows that supplemental hormones overall provide more benefit than harm, for cardiovascular, sexual, and mental health. There is still a general warning about the risk of endometrial cancer. But it will be left to pharmaceutical companies to provide information, such as on package inserts, about possible risks of taking these medicines. The idea is that the risks that were stated after the Women's Health Initiative Study were overblown, and millions of women since then have been denied information and opportunity to benefit from supplemental hormones during menopause. However, herbalist Susun Weed doesn't agree with this, and believes it's not necessary to use exogenous hormones during menopause. There are definitely many non-hormonal, helpful lifestyle changes to make that can mitigate menopausal symptoms. Where do I fall? Somewhere in the middle. I have definitely seen patients' lives change for the better while using supplemental hormones. I have also seen patients do very well with non-hormonal menopause therapies. Let's sort this out!

Radio Naturopath Episode 485: No Escaping the Common Cold (but here’s help); Menopause: Weight Loss??!!

The past week I had the DREADED COMMON COLD, along with sinking into misery, lots of symptoms, wondering if I'd ever be well again, then after three days of that, feeling much better! The key is rest, rest, rest. We talk about good things like water, neti pots, things to break up mucus, spicy food, and more. Then we start on menopause and weight loss (and why you shouldn't make yourself crazy). There's a lot to unpack so we'll have more for you!

Radio Naturopath Episode 469: Happy ThanksBirthday to Me, Seasonal Affective Disorder

This week, I talked about how we BAILED from the Manchester Road Race, because Ron's circulation and leg pain and the chilly, pouring rain would have made it too uncomfortable. We may return to Manchester to walk the course on a sunnier day! And soon we'll have some diagnosis as to what's going on with Ron's health and get him back to walking, running, and mostly importantly, CYCLING! 

Also, it was all about Hello Darkness My Old Friend, the sun is setting at 4 PM. All about seasonal affective disorder! What it is, the neurotransmitters involved, and what vitamins and supplements can be helpful. And don't forget the light box, dawn simulators, and just plain getting outside! Basic healthy lifestyle stuff can help too. 

Radio Naturopath Episode 143: Energy in the Waning Light, All About Vitamin K

The light is waning and your energy may be going with it. Hormonally, that's normal! It's OK to slow down, do activities in short bursts with more rest. Also, all about Vitamin K, both K1 and K2! How they help with blood clotting, preventing calcifications, mineralizing teeth, building bones, and preventing cancer. Also, how to get them in food. K2 is mostly in animal protein, but as a vegan, natto! 

Vitamin D: The Sunshine Vitamin That Helps With Mood, Pain, Cancer Prevention, and Much More!

Vitamin D is VERY important. There are Vitamin D receptors in every cell in your body. Of course, it's important for calcium and magnesium absorption and metabolism. But did you know it's important in mood, pain, immunity, and fighting cancer? Also, really it's a HORMONE, because our bodies make it from cholesterol, and it's converted to active vitamin D3 by sunlight! We address how much time you should spend in the sun vs. taking a supplement.