At some point in your life, it's likely that you’ve noticed a connection between your digestive system and your hormones, probably in the form of annoying or uncomfortable premenstrual bloating, or the loose stools so many women experience like clockwork just before their period starts. But have you ever considered that acne, period pain, PMS, PCOS, endometriosis, or fibroids could be related to not just your hormones, but something going on in your gut?
In this episode we're going to focus on the important role of your microbiome on your hormone balance – particularly when it comes to estrogen. You can also read the accompanying article available at avivaromm.com/148.

148 The Fascinating Way Your Gut Impacts Your Estrogen Levels

From the stuff your mother never told you, to the stuff your doctor never learned, On Health features taboo-busting conversations that demystify and de-stigmatize our bodies, all while bridging the gap between conventional medicine and wellness. Join Yale-trained MD & midwife Aviva Romm and her line-up of expert guests as they discuss everything from periods to menopause, sex to reproductive health politics, and motherhood to mental health. Each week, Dr. Romm will be exploring the science and wisdom of how our bodies work, what makes us well, what gets in the way, and how we can live our best lives on our terms, authentically and bravely. You can expect to learn more about topics such as women's brain health, cesareans, microbiome seeding, women’s sexual health, and much more. Plus, you'll get Aviva’s musings, tips, and guidance from 35+ years of helping women take back their health—and their lives. The new medicine for women is here!

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"What if your body had a greater ability to heal than you were ever led to believe?" - This question not only challenges conventional health beliefs but also underpins the empowering message that infuse today's discussion. Welcome to this - literally - energy packed new episode of "On Health," where I’m joined by Dr. Casey Means, a Stanford-trained physician and the author of  "Good Energy." Once on the path to becoming an ENT surgeon, Dr. Means experienced a personal health revelation that steered her towards a deep dive into metabolic health, ultimately leading to her leaving conventional medicine. Today, she’s a leading voice in proactive health practices and metabolic optimization, sharing her expertise to help others ignite their best health.About Dr. Casey Means:Dr. Casey Means is a Stanford-trained physician and a pioneer in the field of metabolic health. After leaving her surgical residency, she co-founded a health technology company focused on personalized nutrition and lifestyle optimization. She's an advocate for a holistic approach to health that emphasizes the role of diet, environmental factors, and lifestyle choices in improving metabolic function and overall well-being. Her upcoming book, "Good Energy," explores these themes in detail. Connect with Dr. Means through her website and on Instagram.In This Episode We Explore:Life Shift: Discover why Dr. Means transitioned from a surgical career to focusing on metabolic health.Metabolism 2.0: Why metabolism is the mother of root causes - and  why it's crucial to your health.The Powerhouses of Your Cells: Learn how environmental exposures and a SAD diet are harming our mitochondrial health - and how you can boost your mitochondrial function. (And learn a fun fact about the matrilineal nature of mitochondria).Lab Tests for Metabolism: Casey and I share the essential lab tests we recommend for monitoring metabolic health.Nutritional Guidance: Get practical tips on what to eat and what to avoid —  to optimize your metabolic health every day - and how it’s easier than you might think.Nature and Health: Explore how reconnecting with nature - and our innate feminine bu tuning into your body's natural rhythms—  can enhance your metabolic health.The Sickness Industry of Medicine: We discuss the backend healthcare incentives to keep us sick rather than help us be well!Casey’s top meal picks for protein rich, nutrient dense breakfasts, lunches, and dinners - that you can prepare in 5 to 30 minutes!
Don’t miss this episode filled with actionable insights that could redefine what you thought was possible for your health. Tune in to learn how you can harness your "Good Energy" for a life of vitality and optimal health. Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements

Why Metabolic Health Matters and How to Improve it with Casey Means

In recognition of Maternal Mental Health Month I am re-sharing this 2023 conversation with the founders of The Motherhood Center in NYC. With Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorders (PMADS) being the #1 complication associated with birth in the US and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this remains a critical conversation. ________________ It’s not just you. You're not crazy. You're not a bad mom. You're not alone. These are words and deep beliefs that resonate through and form the backbone of today’s guests, Catherine Birndorf, MD, and Paige Bellenbaum, LMSW. Catherine and Paige are dedicated to changing the perinatal mental health terrain, and they do it through The Motherhood Center, a place of radical acceptance, nurturance, and individual and group support. On today’s episode, we pull back the curtain on motherhood and redefine what is considered "normal" and "typical". With PMADs (perinatal mood and anxiety disorders) being the #1 complication associated with birth and the #2 cause of maternal mortality, this is a critical conversation. On today’s episode, we unpack why it’s so important that we talk more about these conditions, how to do your best to prevent PMADs, and what to do if you or someone you love has symptoms.  Aviva, Paige, and Catherine discuss: The definition of perinatal mood and anxiety disorders (PMADS) and the different diagnoses that fall under the PMAD umbrella What PMAD taboos still exist today, why this needs to change, and how Roe v. Wade affects these taboos Paige and Catherine’s personal stories with perinatal mood disorders and what brought them to the point of specializing in PMADS and opening the motherhood center The kinds of physical and psychological feelings and symptoms associated with PMADs and signs birthing people and their providers should watch out for Why we need to move in the direction of making it mandatory for OB-GYNs, midwives, pediatricians, and any providers who come in contact with newer expecting mothers to begin educating their patients about PMADS and screening for symptoms  The effects of the pandemic, social isolation, and potential cultural contributors on PMADS  The role of medication and psychotherapy in treating conditions 
For more information or to reach out visit themotherhoodcenter.com or call (212) 335-0034.  Thank you so much for taking the time to tune in to your body, yourself, and this podcast! Please share the love by sending this to someone in your life who could benefit from the kinds of things we talk about in this space. Make sure to follow your host on Instagram @dr.avivaromm and go to avivaromm.com to join the conversation.  Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements

[Replay] The Hidden Motherhood Struggle with Catherine Birndorf and Paige Bellenbaum

I've been wanting to share this episode with you for awhile, so I finally dusted off the archives and here it is. The sound quality is not as sharp as our more recent episodes - our production values have definitely improved - but I'm certain you'll find it timely and useful. Despite increased attention on the dangers of burnout,  recent surveys report that a majority of the population across many countries report feeling burned out. This epidemic of overwhelm has a profound impact, especially on women. In this episode, we dive into the world of adaptogens, remarkable herbs that help prevent and reverse the effects of stress and burnout. Discover how they work and which ones are best suited if you’re feeling overwhelmed. What you will learn:The physical and mental symptoms of burnoutHistorical background of adaptogensThe role of adaptogens in regulating stress responses and supporting adrenal healthHow adaptogens can be used to enhance physical health and mental well-being.Choosing the right adaptogens Detailed profiles of calming and nourishing adaptogensUnderstanding dosages and potential interactions of adaptogens
Adaptogens offer a powerful way to manage stress and recover from burnout, but they should be part of an integrative approach to health that includes proper self-care, nutrition, and rest. Tune in to learn how to harness the healing power of adaptogens to refill your energy reserves and enhance your life. For the accompanying article go to https://avivaromm.com/adaptogens-burnout/ If you'd like to receive a copy of my free ebook, Adaptogens: Herbs for 21st Century Stress, go here. Mentioned in this episode: The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements

[Replay] Adaptogens & Burnout

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Should you use it for your perimenopause or menopause symptoms? Does it prevent dementia? Heart disease? Is it safe? Who should and who shou;dn’t take it? Join me for this powerful conversation with Dr. Sharon Malone, an OB-GYN with 30 years of clinical experience - and an advocate for menopause awareness, and I explore these questions.  In this episode we unpack: Rethinking aging and embracing the power of menopause - and why Dr. Malone has found this to be the most freeing and joyful phase of her lifeThe controversies surrounding hormone replacement therapy, and the research that led to all of the confusion about its use.The "window of opportunity" for starting HRT, who gets the most benefits, and what symptoms and conditions it’s truly useful for. Navigating the potential risks of HRT, including the comparable risks of drinking two glasses of wine - so you can make the most informed decisions about your options The difference between being pro-hormone and anti-suffering for women in menopauseWhy it’s important to be wary when it comes to ‘celebrity endorsed’  information on menopausal therapies
Dr. Malone offers invaluable advice on navigating the symptoms of menopause with grace, while empowering you with the knowledge and confidence to make the best health decisions for during the menopause transition. Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements

Demystifying Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Menopause with Sharon Malone

In this must-listen episode I'm thrilled to welcome Dr. Lisa Mosconi, a leading neuroscientist and author of The Menopause Brain,  and my friend, back to On Health to demystify the profound impact of menopause on the female brain. Dr. Mosconi offers invaluable insights into how menopause is more than a hormonal shift - it's a significant neuroendocrine change, and a potentially very important and powerful time in our lives.  We dive deep into:How perimenopause and menopause really impacts the female brain - including the role of estrogen during this timeCommon cognitive symptoms of perimenopause and menopause including brain fog, sleep problems, and memory lapsesWhy it might be that women in cultures that see menopause more positively have fewer symptomsThe powerful role 'older women' can play as leaders, providers, and guides in families, communities, and societyThe pros and cons of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), including it’s role in Alzheimer’s preventionThe supportive role of nutrients, fiber, and omega-3 fatty acids for women's brain healthThe importance of access to a wide variety of options so that we can pick what's best for us in feeling our best in menopause.
Knowledge is power. Understanding menopause's impact on the brain allows us to make informed choices, turning a phase often approached with dread into an opportunity for empowerment and well-being. Join us to transform how you think about menopause and prioritize your brain health through this pivotal time - whatever age you are - because it’s never too early to start protecting your beautiful brain!  Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements Mentioned in this episode: Looking for supplements for yourself and your family, including some of those I talk about in episodes? You can find those - and your 15% discount on every order here: avivaromm.com/supplements

148 The Fascinating Way Your Gut Impacts Your Estrogen Levels

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