132. The Truth About Menopause | Shocking Facts on Hormones & Aging You Haven't Heard
In this episode of Too Young To Be Old, Diane Gilman, the iconic “Queen of Jeans” and host of the show, sits down with Colleen Kupka, a hormone health expert, to tackle one of the most complex and misunderstood phases in a woman’s life: menopause. Together, they discuss everything from hormonal changes to dietary shifts that can ease menopausal symptoms and the misinformation that can make the journey challenging. Diane and Colleen bring Clarity to topics that many women face in silence, empowering listeners with knowledge to take control of their health.
Hormone Replacement Therapy: Facts vs. Myths
Diane and Colleen dive deep into the nuances of hormone replacement Therapy (HRT) and bioidentical hormones. Colleen shares her personal journey through menopause, shedding light on the differences between synthetic and bioidentical hormones and the importance of being informed about hormone therapy options. They discuss the controversial study from 2001 on HRT and Cancer risk, debunking myths and explaining why bioidentical hormones can be beneficial.
The Role of Diet in Managing Menopause
Colleen highlights the crucial role Diet plays in managing menopause symptoms, especially for weight maintenance and reducing inflammation. She emphasizes a plant-based diet, recommending plenty of greens, whole grains, and avoiding inflammatory oils. Together, they discuss how making mindful food choices—like swapping out processed foods and vegetable oils for healthier alternatives—can reduce inflammation and support overall well-being.
Understanding Inflammation and Aging
One of the key points Colleen discusses is the impact of inflammation on aging. She explains how certain foods, like dairy and processed oils, can increase inflammation, which exacerbates menopausal symptoms and accelerates aging. Diane shares her own struggles with inflammation, prompting Colleen to offer practical advice on anti-inflammatory foods and Lifestyle adjustments.
Weight Gain and Body Changes During Menopause
Diane opens up about her experience with weight gain during menopause, a struggle familiar to many women. Colleen provides insights into why these changes occur and what women can do to manage weight more effectively. They discuss the benefits of weight-bearing exercises, dietary adjustments, and supplements like vitamin D to combat osteoporosis and support bone health.
Busting Common Myths About Menopause and Aging
In a candid exchange, Diane and Colleen debunk several pervasive myths surrounding menopause and aging. They address topics like soy consumption, the confusion surrounding cholesterol medications, and the importance of maintaining a diet that supports longevity. Colleen warns against relying on medication as a “quick fix” for lifestyle issues, advocating instead for natural solutions whenever possible.
Connect with Colleen Kupka
Website – https://rejuvenatemyhormones.com/about-us-staff/
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