In this engaging conversation, Dr. Bella shares her journey from conventional medicine to a more holistic approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding women's health, particularly during perimenopause and menopause. She discusses the challenges faced by healthcare providers in this field, the common health concerns women experience, and the myths surrounding women's health. Dr. Bella highlights the significance of personalized care and the role of precision testing in managing health effectively. In this conversation, Dr. Bella discusses the complexities of supplements, the importance of quality in healthcare, and the necessity of a trusting doctor-patient relationship. She emphasizes the need for empathy in medicine, explores current wellness trends, and provides insights into hormone replacement therapy, gut health, and metabolic testing. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of women's health and the importance of individualized care.

What You’ll Learn In This Episode:

• Dr. Bella's journey into medicine was influenced by her father's career as a surgeon.
• She transitioned from conventional medicine only and added functional medicine to her practice after personal health challenges.
• Holistic health practices are essential for patient care and recovery.
• Women often feel isolated in their health struggles, especially during menopause.
• The conversation around menopause is becoming less taboo, allowing for more open discussions.
• Common health concerns for women include fatigue, weight gain, and brain fog..
• Exercise myths persist, particularly the belief that cardio is the only way to lose weight.
• Stress management is crucial for women going through perimenopause and menopause.
• Precision testing can provide valuable insights into individual health needs.
• The quality of supplements varies significantly; look for certifications.
• A trusting relationship with your doctor is essential for effective care.
• Cold plunges may not be beneficial for all women, especially during menopause.
• Bioidentical hormones are gaining recognition for their safety and efficacy.
• Gut health testing can provide valuable insights into overall health.
• Metabolic testing reveals important information about nutritional status.
• Patients should prioritize sustainable health over quick fixes.

Episode Highlights

[00:00] Introduction to Dr. Bella's Journey

[07:44] The Importance of Holistic Health

[10:20] Rewards and Challenges in Women's Health and Wellness

[14:20] A Shift in the Understanding of Perimenopause and Menopause

[18:30] Common Health Concerns for Women

[23:59] Debunking Myths in Women's Health

[29:00] Managing Stress and Lifestyle Changes

[31:20] Precision Testing and Personalized Care

[36:02] Navigating Supplement Fatigue

[36:46] The Importance of Quality in Supplements

[38:41] Building a Trusting Doctor-Patient Relationship

[41:30] Empathy in Healthcare

[48:00] Hot Flash (bad) vs Hot Take (good)

• Cold Plunge and Sauna
• Understanding Hormone Replacement Therapy
• The Evolution of Hormone Testing
• The Value of Gut Health Testing
• Food Sensitivity Testing
• Metabolic Testing Insights

Resources and Mentions:

• Dr. Bella Beraha - [email protected]
• The Well, Grand Cayman 
• Follow The Well on Instagram