In this enlightening episode of Obsicast, I am thrilled to welcome my dear friend and expert guest, Camila dos Santos, a naturopath and functional medicine practitioner. Our connection runs deep, having shared transformative experiences in Ecuador with plant medicine, which opened my eyes to her extensive knowledge of nutrition and holistic health. This month, we dive into a topic that is particularly relevant to many women: perimenopause. As someone who is just beginning to navigate this phase of life, I found myself with numerous questions, and Camila was more than willing to share her insights. We start by defining perimenopause, explaining how it serves as the transitional phase leading up to menopause, typically occurring in women between the ages of 30 and 60. Camila clarifies that perimenopause is characterized by hormonal imbalances, particularly the decline of estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, which can lead to a variety of symptoms such as brain fog, low mood, hot flashes, and changes in skin elasticity. We discuss the multifactorial nature of these symptoms, emphasizing the role of stress and lifestyle choices. Camila highlights the phenomenon of "cortisol steal," where high stress levels can deplete progesterone production, further exacerbating hormonal imbalances. She provides practical advice on how to manage stress through breathwork, meditation, and lifestyle adjustments, all of which can significantly impact hormone health. Nutrition is a cornerstone of our conversation. Camila stresses the importance of an anti-inflammatory diet rich in antioxidants, whole foods, and healthy fats. She outlines specific foods that can support hormone production, such as organic soy for estrogen, flaxseeds for lignans, and omega-3-rich foods for progesterone. We also touch on the importance of avoiding refined sugars and processed foods, which can contribute to inflammation and hormonal disruption. As we transition into the topic of supplements, Camila dispels common myths about their efficacy, explaining that the right supplements can indeed play a vital role in supporting hormonal balance. She shares her recommendations for various supplements tailored to individual needs, emphasizing the importance of personalized care. Throughout the episode, we also address the impact of modern life on women's health, including the pervasive issue of microplastics and their effects on hormone balance. Camila encourages listeners to cultivate a deeper connection with their bodies through mindfulness practices and self-care, highlighting the importance of starting these practices early in life to mitigate future health challenges. In closing, we discuss the potential benefits of bioidentical hormone therapy and the importance of thorough hormone testing to create a tailored approach to health. Camila's passion for holistic health shines through, and I am grateful for her insights and expertise. This episode is packed with valuable information for anyone looking to understand perimenopause better and take proactive steps toward maintaining hormonal health. I hope you find it as educational and inspiring as I did. Join us next month for another deep dive into a topic that matters to us and the modern world. Links: Camilla dos Santos' Website: https://www.camilladossantos.com/ Obsicast Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/obsicast/ Online Healthstores: The Natural Dispensary and Healf: https://naturaldispensary.co.uk/ https://healf.com/ Practitioner code with 5% discount: CDSAN5 https://www.amritanutrition.co.uk/ Amrita: IOL240 https://youthandearth.com/pages/shop-by-goals?gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA74G9BhAEEiwA8kNfpRooejmPg8UJ2mHqZKUIaXOHSp1LTR6-o6Zszw4okmfBZg38pFdiHRoClV8QAvD_BwE Youth and Earth: CAMILLADOSSANTOS15
