#480: Revitalize Your LIFE with Hormone Therapy with Dr. Erika Schwartz, Founder, Disease Prevention & Anti-Aging Pioneer, & 8x Best Selling Author
In this episode of Creating Confidence with Heather Monahan, Dr. Erika Schwartz shares her personal journey of discovering bioidentical hormone therapy, a form of hormone replacement therapy that uses hormones molecularly identical to those produced by the human body. After struggling with menopausal symptoms despite her medical training, Schwartz embraced bioidentical hormones herself and delved into studying and developing customized formulations.
Schwartz discusses the science behind bioidentical hormones, differentiating them from synthetic hormone treatments. She explores the potential benefits, particularly in preventing diseases like heart disease and osteoporosis. Schwartz also highlights the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness, integrating diet, exercise, stress management, and other lifestyle factors alongside hormone therapy.
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The speaker's personal journey and discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy
Dr. Erika Schwartz shares her struggle with hormonal imbalances and her discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy, which she embraced both personally and professionally.
At age 46, despite her medical training, Schwartz experienced menopausal symptoms and found conventional treatments ineffective. Intrigued by a patient's success with bioidentical hormones, she tried them herself and relentlessly studied and developed formulations that yielded positive results over three years.
The science and benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy
Schwartz emphasizes the differences between bioidentical hormones (molecularly identical to those produced in the human body) and synthetic hormones (different molecular structures). She advocates avoiding oral estrogen and [restricted term] pellets.
Schwartz asserts that properly balanced bioidentical hormones can prevent diseases like heart disease and osteoporosis. She highlights [restricted term]'s role in maintaining muscle mass and bone health, and its benefits for libido.
The speaker's mission to educate and promote bioidentical hormone therapy
Schwartz has devoted her career to educating on bioidentical hormones and dispelling misconceptions. She vehemently denounced a study falsely linking hormone therapy to cancer as fraudulent. In her practice, she initially focused on helping women before including men.
Schwartz advises patients to trust their intuition on treatments rather than relying solely on blood tests. She advocates customized treatment approaches since individual responses vary.
The importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness
Schwartz recognizes hormonal balance as crucial but emphasizes integrating diet, exercise, stress management, and lifestyle changes. She identifies stress as a major concern and recommends meditation to manage it.
Schwartz argues for a preventative care approach focused on maintaining health rather than just treating disease. She prioritizes understanding how patients feel over excessive testing.
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Counterarguments
- Bioidentical hormones, while molecularly similar to natural hormones, still require more research to fully understand their long-term effects and safety profile.
- The assertion that bioidentical hormones can prevent diseases like heart disease and osteoporosis may be overly optimistic, as evidence is mixed and more rigorous studies are needed to establish causation.
- The role of [restricted term] in maintaining health is complex, and its supplementation can have potential risks, especially if not monitored closely by a healthcare professional.
- While Dr. Schwartz denounces a study linking hormone therapy to cancer, it is important to consider the body of scientific literature as a whole, which includes studies with varying results; hormone therapy may still carry risks that need to be weighed against the benefits.
- Trusting intuition over blood tests can be problematic, as subjective feelings may not always accurately reflect underlying physiological conditions; objective testing can provide critical information for safe and effective treatment.
- Customized treatment approaches are important, but they should be based on evidence-based medicine and not solely on individual preference or anecdotal evidence.
- A holistic approach to health is valuable, but specific interventions should be supported by scientific evidence to ensure they are effective and safe.
- Stress management techniques like meditation are beneficial, but they may not be suitable or sufficient for everyone, and other methods of managing stress should also be considered.
- Preventative care is important, but it should not come at the expense of addressing existing diseases or conditions that require immediate attention and treatment.
- While understanding how patients feel is crucial, dismissing the value of testing can lead to missed diagnoses or the overlooking of important health indicators.
Actionables
- You can start a wellness journal to track your daily habits and their effects on your mood and energy levels. By noting your diet, exercise, stress levels, and any symptoms you experience, you'll be able to identify patterns that may indicate hormonal imbalances. For example, consistently poor sleep and low energy might prompt you to explore hormone therapy options.
- Create a "stress reduction toolkit" that includes activities like deep breathing exercises, a playlist of calming music, and a list of go-to meditation apps. Use this toolkit whenever you feel overwhelmed to help manage stress, which is a key factor in maintaining hormonal balance and overall health.
- Develop a personalized health checklist that goes beyond standard medical advice, focusing on preventive care tailored to your unique needs. This might include regular check-ins with your body's signals, such as energy levels and libido, to decide when to seek professional advice about hormone therapy or lifestyle adjustments.
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The speaker's personal journey and discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy
Erika Schwartz shares her personal struggle with hormonal imbalances and the subsequent revelation of bioidentical hormone therapy which she came to embrace both personally and professionally.
The speaker's background as a medical professional who initially struggled with her own hormonal imbalances
Dr. Erika Schwartz, despite her success as a medical professional, felt like an alien had invaded her body. At the age of 46, she experienced the onset of menopause and the conventional treatments she was equipped with were failing her. Her professional training seemed inadequate for her own symptoms, leaving her desperate to reclaim her well-being.
The speaker's pursuit of alternative solutions and discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy
Schwartz's encounter with bioidentical hormone therapy came through a patient. Upon the patient's return, happy with the therapy, Schwartz, herself not feeling well, was intrigued to try this same path for her health issues. Despite the scarcity of information available at the time, especially in the 1990s when libraries offered little help on the subject, she ordered a bioidentical hormone kit to take charge of her health.
Dr. Erika Schwartz founded Evolve Science in New York City, committing over 30 years to understand that bioidentical hormone ...
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The speaker's personal journey and discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy
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Counterarguments
- Bioidentical hormone therapy, while beneficial for some, may not be the best option for everyone, and individual responses can vary.
- The long-term safety and effectiveness of bioidentical hormone therapy are not as well-established as those for conventional hormone replacement therapies, which have been more extensively studied.
- The personal experience of Dr. Schwartz, while compelling, is anecdotal and may not be generalizable to the wider population.
- The regulatory oversight of compounding pharmacies and the formulations they produce can be less stringent than that for mass-produced pharmaceuticals, potentially leading to inconsistencies in product quality and efficacy.
- The narrative may underemphasize the importance of rigorous scientific research and peer-reviewed studies in validating the efficacy of new medical treatments.
- The story may inadvertently contribute to the percepti ...
Actionables
- You can start a health journal to track your symptoms and treatments, noting how you feel each day to identify patterns and potential triggers. This personal record can be invaluable when discussing treatment options with healthcare providers, as it provides a detailed account of what you've experienced, similar to how Dr. Schwartz took note of her own health journey.
- Explore the creation of a peer support group for those interested in alternative therapies, where members can share their experiences and knowledge. This could be a simple Facebook group or a regular meetup. By connecting with others, you can learn from their experiences and discoveries, much like Dr. Schwartz learned from her patient's experience with bioidentical horm ...
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The science and benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy
Erika Schwartz advocates for a nuanced approach to hormone therapy, emphasizing the differences between bioidentical hormones and synthetic alternatives along with the health benefits of properly balanced bioidentical hormones.
The differences between bioidentical hormones and synthetic hormone replacement therapies
Schwartz explains that bioidentical hormones are molecularly identical to the hormones produced naturally in the human body, whereas synthetic hormones have different molecular structures. This distinction is crucial because it implies that bioidentical and synthetic hormones may behave differently in the body. She stresses that a common misconception in conventional medicine is that all estrogens or progesterones are the same despite evidence to the contrary.
Schwartz also advises against the use of certain forms of hormone delivery. Specifically, she recommends avoiding oral estrogen, which is processed through the liver, and cautions against using [restricted term] in pellet form due to their consistent release, contrasting the body's natural intermittent hormone impulses.
The wide-ranging health benefits of properly balanced bioidentical hormones
Properly balanced bioidentical hormones, Schwartz asserts, can prevent serious health conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer's, and osteoporosis, and contribute to overall health and wellbeing. She underlines the role of the right hormones in maintaining wei ...
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The science and benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy
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Clarifications
- A nuanced approach to hormone therapy involves considering the individual differences in hormones and their effects on the body. It emphasizes personalized treatment plans based on bioidentical hormones that closely match those naturally produced. This approach contrasts with a more generalized or one-size-fits-all method commonly seen in traditional hormone therapy practices. By tailoring treatment to each person's specific needs, the aim is to optimize the benefits of hormone therapy while minimizing potential risks or side effects.
- Bioidentical hormones have the same molecular structure as hormones naturally produced in the body, while synthetic hormones have different structures. This difference can impact how the hormones interact with the body's receptors and metabolic pathways. Bioidentical hormones are designed to mimic the body's natural hormones more closely than synthetic hormones, potentially leading to different effects and responses in the body. Understanding these variances is crucial for tailoring hormone therapy to individual needs and optimizing treatment outcomes.
- In conventional medicine, there is a common misconception that all estrogens or progesterones are identical in their effects and functions, regardless of their specific molecular structures. This misconception overlooks the crucial differences between bioidentical hormones, which are structurally identical to those produced naturally in the body, and synthetic hormones, which have different molecular compositions. Understanding these distinctions is essential as bioidentical hormones may interact differently in the body compared to synthetic alternatives.
- Oral estrogen is processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream, which can lead to increased levels of clotting factors and inflammatory markers. This processing can potentially raise the risk of blood clots, liver issues, and other side effects compared to non-oral forms of estrogen delivery. Avoiding oral estrogen helps bypass the liver's first-pass effect, reducing the strain on the liver and potentially minimizing adverse effects associated with hormone therapy.
- Using [restricted term] in pellet form involves implanting small pellets under the skin to release [restricted term] slowly over time. This method is criticized due to the challenge of adjusting dosage once the pellets are inserted and the potential for inconsistent hormone levels. It is important to note that this form of [restricted term] delivery may not mimic the body's natural hormone release patterns effectively. Pellet therapy requires a medical procedure for insertion and removal, which can be a drawback for some individuals.
- Hormones play a crucial role in weight maintenance by influencing metabolism and fat storage. They also impact sleep quality by regulating the sleep-wake cycle and promoting re ...
Counterarguments
- Bioidentical hormones, despite being molecularly identical to natural hormones, are not without risks and side effects, and their long-term safety profile is not as well-established as that of some synthetic hormones.
- The claim that bioidentical hormones can prevent diseases such as heart disease and Alzheimer's may be overstated, as the evidence supporting these benefits is not conclusive and more research is needed.
- Some medical professionals argue that the benefits of bioidentical hormones are not significantly different from those of synthetic hormones when used appropriately.
- The FDA has not approved some compounded bioidentical hormones, and there is concern about the consistency and purity of these products.
- The idea that all synthetic hormones are inherently bad is an oversimplification, as many synthetic hormones have been used safely and effectively for years.
- The recommendation to avoid oral estrogen does not take into account that for some individuals, oral administration may be more practical or effective, depending on their specific health situation and risk factors.
- The caution against using [restricted term] in pel ...
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The speaker's mission to educate and promote bioidentical hormone therapy
Erika Schwartz has devoted her career to educating on the benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy, focusing on dispelling misconceptions and guiding patients to take an empowered role in their hormonal health.
The speaker's efforts to dispel misconceptions and misinformation around hormone therapy
After writing a book on bioidentical hormone therapy that coincided with a study falsely implicating hormone therapy in causing cancer, Schwartz took the opportunity to clarify the benefits of bioidentical hormones and oppose the resulting misconceptions. Schwartz vehemently describes the study as a "complete fraud" due to its misleading selection of participants and the types of hormones used. In her practice, starting with her first compounding pharmacy that used her formulations, she has educated doctors on her approach and initially focused on helping women, though her practice now includes men as well.
The speaker's focus on empowering patients to take an active role in their hormonal health
Schwartz advises listeners to trust their intuition and their body's responses when evaluating hormonal treatments. She underscores the necessity for patients to understand their treatments and advocates for a customized approach to bioidentical hormone therapy.
Schwartz insists that patients should not rely solely on blood tests to assess their hormonal health but rather should focus on how they feel, supporting a more personalized and self-aware method of treatment. She emphasizes that individual res ...
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The speaker's mission to educate and promote bioidentical hormone therapy
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Counterarguments
- Bioidentical hormone therapy, while beneficial for some, may not be the best option for everyone, and risks and benefits should be evaluated on an individual basis.
- The claim that a study is a "complete fraud" requires substantial evidence, and such strong statements should be approached with caution, as they can discredit legitimate research.
- While trusting one's intuition is important, it should be balanced with evidence-based medical advice to ensure safe and effective treatment.
- Blood tests and other objective measures are important diagnostic tools and should complement, rather than be replaced by, subjective assessments of how a patient feels.
- A three-month trial period for a new treatment may not be appropriate for all situations, as some treatments may show results sooner or require a longer period to assess effectiveness.
- While individualized treatment is ideal, it may not always be practical or supported by evidence in all cases.
- The financial motivations of healthcare providers are a complex issue, and while prioritizin ...
Actionables
- You can start a wellness journal to track how you feel daily, noting any changes as you explore hormone therapy or other treatments. This practice will help you become more attuned to your body's responses and identify patterns over time. For example, you might note your energy levels, mood, sleep quality, and any physical symptoms each day, which can provide valuable insights when discussing treatment options with your healthcare provider.
- Create a list of questions to ask your healthcare provider about any proposed treatments, ensuring you understand the purpose, potential side effects, and how to measure their effectiveness. This could include questions like "What should I expect to feel when starting this treatment?" or "How will we assess the treatment's success apart from blood tests?" Having this list during consultations can foster a more collaborative and informed approach to your care.
- De ...
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The importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness, including managing stress, diet, and lifestyle
Schwartz advocates for a comprehensive strategy to health, recognizing the interdependence of bodily systems and the crucial role of a balanced lifestyle.
The speaker's recognition that hormonal balance is just one piece of the overall health puzzle
Dr. Erica Schwartz's medical philosophy acknowledges that hormonal balance is crucial but just one component of overall health. She emphasizes the importance of integrating attention to diet, exercise, and lifestyle with hormonal treatments to ensure optimal health. Schwartz identifies the integral connection between hormones and wellness, advocating for disease prevention, patient advocacy, and coordinated care.
Schwartz speaks about the vital role of managing stress, nutrition, and physical activity in maintaining good health. For instance, if someone is taking hormones and adhering to a beneficial routine but still encounters sleep problems, it may indicate that hormones are not well balanced. She recommends checking thyroid and adrenal function, alongside ensuring that diet is suitable and stress is effectively managed.
Stress is identified as a primary concern for various health issues. Instead of looking for workarounds, Schwartz advises tackling stress directly. She suggests that sleep issues might be improved by establishing a calming nighttime routine, including meditation and deep-breathing exercises.
Schwartz not only teaches her patients to meditate as a practical approach to offset stress but also underscores the significant influence of a person's mental state on their physical health. For example, stress management contributes to the success of treatments such as IVF, and she maintains that mental practices like meditation are as vital as physical health.
The speaker's emphasis on preventative care ...
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The importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness, including managing stress, diet, and lifestyle
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Counterarguments
- While a holistic approach is beneficial, it may not always be practical or accessible for all individuals due to socioeconomic factors or availability of services.
- Hormonal treatments, while not the sole aspect of health, can be a critical intervention for some conditions, and their importance should not be understated.
- Diet and exercise are important, but genetic predispositions and environmental factors can also significantly impact health outcomes, which may not be fully addressed by lifestyle changes alone.
- Stress management techniques like meditation may not be effective for everyone, and some individuals may require more structured psychological interventions.
- The emphasis on preventative care might overlook the necessity of treating acute or chronic conditions that require immediate and aggressive interventions.
- The reliance on patient-reported feelings as a primary indicator of health may not always be reliable due to the subjective nature of self-assessment and the potential for asymptomatic conditions.
- Blood tests to determine "ideal" h ...
Actionables
- You can create a personalized health dashboard using a simple spreadsheet to track various aspects of your wellbeing, such as sleep quality, diet, exercise, and mood. By monitoring these elements daily, you can identify patterns and correlations between lifestyle choices and your health, allowing for more informed decisions and adjustments to your routine.
- Start a "stress diary" where you jot down moments of stress throughout the day, noting the triggers and your reactions. This practice can help you become more aware of stressors in your life and develop targeted strategies to manage them, such as scheduling short breaks for deep-breathing exercises when you anticipate stressful situations.
- Engage in a monthly "health experiment" w ...
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1-Page Summary- The speaker's personal journey and discovery of bioidentical hormone therapy
- The science and benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy
- The speaker's mission to educate and promote bioidentical hormone therapy
- The importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness, including managing stress, diet, and lifestyle
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