reSee.it Podcast Summary
Hormone imbalances are increasingly common, largely due to exposure to endocrine disruptors found in everyday products like plastics, lotions, and air fresheners. These disruptors, particularly xenoestrogens, mimic estrogen in the body, leading to issues such as estrogen dominance, which can affect both men and women. Testing for these disruptors is possible, but many products are not adequately regulated.
Symptoms of hormone imbalances include weight gain, mood swings, fatigue, and reproductive issues like heavy periods and endometriosis. Addressing these imbalances often requires a focus on liver health and gut health, as the body metabolizes estrogen through these systems. Constipation can exacerbate these issues, as it prevents the body from eliminating excess estrogen.
To manage hormone levels, it's crucial to eliminate inflammatory foods and products containing harmful chemicals. A low-inflammation diet should prioritize whole foods, organic proteins, and avoid sugar, processed dairy, gluten, and industrial seed oils. Supporting detox pathways through diet and lifestyle changes can help clear excess estrogen and improve overall hormone balance.
The decline in testosterone levels in men over the past few decades is linked to rising estrogen levels, attributed to increased exposure to endocrine disruptors. This decline may also correlate with decreasing fertility rates in women. Many patients experiencing infertility have found success in improving their hormone balance through dietary changes and liver support, sometimes achieving pregnancy even after unsuccessful IVF treatments.
Gut health plays a significant role in hormone regulation. Dysbiosis, yeast overgrowth, and leaky gut can lead to inflammation and hormonal imbalances. Testing for gut health issues is essential, as the gut is closely tied to the immune system and overall health.
Functional medicine practitioners often enter the field due to personal health struggles, leading them to seek alternative solutions. Many women are more likely to seek functional medicine due to their heightened awareness of health issues, particularly concerning their families.
The conversation around women's fitness has evolved, with a shift from traditional cardio and restrictive diets to strength training and a focus on building muscle. Strength training not only helps women achieve their desired physique but also improves metabolic health and hormone balance. The rise of CrossFit has contributed to this shift, encouraging women to lift weights and embrace strength training.
Training for strength, particularly through powerlifting, empowers women by fostering a supportive community and emphasizing performance over appearance. This approach helps clients break free from the cycle of restrictive dieting and overtraining, focusing instead on building muscle and improving overall health.
Ultimately, strength training encourages a healthier relationship with food and exercise, allowing individuals to eat more while achieving their fitness goals. The focus should be on getting stronger, which leads to better body composition and metabolic health, rather than solely on weight loss.