Episode 36: Estrogen Dominance Explained: The Link to Painful Periods and Mood Swings with Dr. Michelle Weeks

Are you experiencing painful periods, mood swings, or unexplained weight gain? If so, you might be dealing with estrogen dominance. (Previously episode 7 of season 2) 

In this insightful episode of TMI Talk, Dr. Mary Grimberg welcomes Dr. Michelle Weeks to dive deep into this often-overlooked condition that affects so many women.

Key highlights from the episode include a breakdown of what estrogen dominance is and its impact on the body, discussing the important roles of progesterone and estrogen throughout the menstrual cycle, and why the balance (or imbalance) of these hormones can lead to a variety of symptoms. The discussion also covers the perils of chronic stress, a common contributor to hormonal imbalance due to its effect on cortisol levels, and its downstream impact on conditions such as insulin resistance.

Listeners will gain a better understanding of the symptoms of estrogen dominance, including abnormal menstrual bleeding, fibro-cystic breasts, endometriosis, and more. Dr. Weeks also provides practical guidance on hormone testing, lifestyle changes, and dietary adjustments to manage estrogen levels effectively.

Takeaways and actionable steps:

• Consider getting your hormone levels tested on specific days of your menstrual cycle (Day 3 for estrogen, Day 18-21 for progesterone) for accurate assessment.
• Explore the Dutch Test if you have irregular periods or are on birth control.
• Start managing stress effectively through mindfulness practices like meditation, which can lead to balanced cortisol levels.
• Begin supporting your liver with cruciferous vegetables, fiber-rich foods, and probiotics for better estrogen detoxification.
• Engage in regular strength training and post-meal walks to aid insulin sensitivity and metabolic health.
• Evaluate the products you use daily and consider replacing those with harmful endocrine disruptors with cleaner options.

For further insight, revisit Episode 2 of Season 2 on anxiety and stress management to complement the knowledge gained in this episode.

Listeners can also take a free hormone symptom quiz available on Dr. Michelle Weeks' Instagram (@weekswellness) bio to gain more clarity on potential hormonal imbalances.

Connect with Dr. Michelle Weeks

• Website → WeeksWellness.com
• Instagram - @WeeksWellness

Timestamped Overview

00:00 Progesterone-Estrogen Ratio & Stress
10:08 Understanding Hormonal Balance in Women
15:21 Using DUTCH Test for Hormone Analysis
20:15 Hormonal Cycle and Ovulation Process
24:14 Signs of Estrogen Dominance
27:54 Menstrual Product Capacity Comparison
37:20 Signs of Estrogen Imbalance
41:51 Progesterone and Cortisol Pathways Explained
44:35 Stress, Cortisol, and Fertility Connection
51:32 Insulin Resistance and Metabolic Dysfunction
58:44 Stress's Impact on Progesterone Levels
01:01:14 Progesterone Cream and Estrogen Detox
01:05:25 Pair Carbs, Walk After Meals
01:14:32 Authenticity and Inner Healing Journey
01:18:01 "Discover Dr. Mary's Integrative Practice"

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