As a female functional medicine physician, I’ve not only witnessed but personally experienced the emotional rollercoaster that often accompanies hormonal changes. This phase, while a natural part of aging, can bring significant emotional and psychological changes, including mood swings, anxiety, and feelings of sadness. These emotional fluctuations are largely due to the hormonal changes happening in your body. Estrogen, which is declining during menopause, plays a key role in regulating mood and emotional well-being. Understanding that these mood changes are a normal part of the menopausal process is the first step towards managing them effectively.

When it comes to managing these mood swings, there are various strategies that can be incredibly effective. Therapy, particularly cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), has been shown to be beneficial in addressing the psychological aspects of menopause. Joining support groups can also provide comfort and understanding, as sharing...

Navigating Hormonal Changes During Menopause: A Functional Medicine Perspective

Menopause and perimenopause are terms that mark a significant phase in a woman's life, yet they're often shrouded in mystery and misunderstanding. Simply put, menopause refers to the point in time when a woman's menstrual periods permanently cease, typically diagnosed after going 12 consecutive months without a menstrual cycle. It signifies the end of her reproductive years, generally occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. However, the journey to this milestone begins much earlier, a stage known as perimenopause.

Perimenopause is the transitional period leading up to menopause. This phase can last for several years and is characterized by a variety of symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels, particularly estrogen and progesterone. Women in perimenopause might notice irregular menstrual cycles, changes in menstrual flow, hot flashes, sleep disturbances, and mood swings. Understanding that these symptoms are a normal part of the transition can provide reassurance and guide women...

Blood tests are invaluable tools in modern healthcare, providing essential insights into a person's overall health and the functioning of various bodily systems. These tests often come with a range of "normal" or "reference" values that help healthcare professionals gauge whether an individual's results are within a healthy range. However, the concept of optimal health extends beyond these reference values, as it considers an individual's unique circumstances and goals. Let's explore the differences between interpreting blood test lab values and striving for optimal values, highlighting the significance of a personalized approach to health.

Understanding Lab Values

Laboratory reference ranges are established based on extensive research and analysis of data from individuals. These ranges serve as a guide for healthcare practitioners to identify potential health issues or imbalances in a patient's body. When a blood test is performed, the results are compared to these reference...

As healthcare continues to evolve, medical professionals are constantly seeking ways to provide the best possible care for their patients. When it comes to understanding your health, laboratory tests play a crucial role in diagnosing and preventing potential issues. While many standard tests are routinely conducted, there are some lesser-known but equally important lab tests that your physician might not be running – but should be. Are you wondering if the tests they are running are correct? Are you wondering why your results are "within normal limits" but you still feel like $#!T?  In this blog post, we'll explore the top five lab tests that deserve a place on your medical radar and you can click the link below to order our Functional Blood Report and take control of your health.

1. Vitamin D Levels (25-Hydroxy Vitamin D): Vitamin D is often referred to as the "sunshine vitamin" due to its production when our skin is exposed to sunlight. It plays a critical role in bone...