Hormones & Hope with Dr. Chhaya

Chhaya Makhija, MD
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Medicine

Welcome to Hormones and Hope, the podcast where we bridge science and wellness for every listener. I’m Dr. Chhaya Makhija, a triple board-certified endocrinologist, lifestyle medicine specialist, and educator/speaker practicing in California. After nearly two decades of helping patients decode their health, I created this podcast to give you trusted, evidence-based insights—delivered with clarity, compassion, and real-life relevance. Let's experience the intersection of clinical endocrinology & lifestyle empowerment.

  1. 3d ago

    What Does your T score and Z score for Bone Density Mean?

    Register For Free Masterclass - Hormones and Bones with Dr. Makhija: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/RlPn712VStaT5jTtqHzSOA#/registration Have you been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia and wondered whether you really need medication? Are you worried about the side effects of osteoporosis treatment, including jaw complications and fractures? In this episode, Dr. Makhija breaks down what you need to know about osteoporosis, bone density, and fracture prevention. She explains how to understand your DEXA scan results, what your T-scores and Z-scores mean, and how the FRAX calculator helps estimate your risk of future fractures. You'll also learn why bone loss happens, how menopause and declining estrogen levels affect bone health, and which medical conditions and lifestyle factors can contribute to osteoporosis. Dr. Makhija also shares the story of a 68-year-old patient who improved her bone density through personalized lifestyle changes and medication, highlighting why the right approach to osteoporosis isn't always the same for everyone. If you want to understand your bone health, ask better questions at your next doctor's appointment, and make informed decisions about osteoporosis treatment, this episode is for you. Follow Dr. Chhaya Makhija here: https://www.instagram.com/chhayamakhijamd/ https://www.facebook.com/unifiedendocrine https://unifiedendocrinecare.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@chhayamakhijamd https://www.linkedin.com/in/chhayamakhijamd/ Email: connect@unifiedendocrinecare.com Download Free Guides/Resources here: https://linktr.ee/chhayamakhijamd Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

  2. Oct 22

    Perimenopause and Beyond: Protecting Your Heart, Bones, and Metabolic Health

    Register For Free Masterclass - Hormones and Bones with Dr. Makhija: https://zoom.us/meeting/register/RlPn712VStaT5jTtqHzSOA#/registration What if some of the health problems we see later in life actually start much earlier than we think? In this episode of Hormones and Hope, Dr. Chhaya sits down with Dr. Traci DeSplinter, an OB-GYN and menopause specialist, to talk about women’s health, perimenopause, menopause hormone therapy, and why it’s important to start thinking about prevention early. They discuss what to do when you don’t feel like yourself, even though your blood work looks normal. From changes in energy, sleep, and weight to symptoms that can overlap with postpartum changes and perimenopause, Dr. Traci shares what she looks for when helping women understand what might be going on. They also talk about the difference between birth control pills and menopause hormone therapy, the role of estrogen and progesterone, and what women should know about FDA-approved hormone treatments. And it’s not just about hormones. The conversation also looks at heart health, cholesterol, insulin resistance, and bone health, including why women may want to think about osteoporosis prevention and bone density testing well before age 65. If you’re wondering when to start paying more attention to your hormones, what to ask your doctor, or how to look after your health as you get older, this conversation is a good place to start. Follow Dr. Chhaya Makhija here: https://www.instagram.com/chhayamakhijamd/ https://www.facebook.com/unifiedendocrine https://unifiedendocrinecare.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@chhayamakhijamd https://www.linkedin.com/in/chhayamakhijamd/ Email: connect@unifiedendocrinecare.com Download Free Guides/Resources here: https://linktr.ee/chhayamakhijamd Follow Dr. DeSplinter here: https://tracidesplintermd.com https://www.refinedwomenshealth.com https://open.spotify.com/show/7eJGSKu42Mcpyys9fB5iRX?si=3d234a9dcbe4467c&nd=1&dlsi=cc0f2854cf50449e Disclaimer: This podcast is for educational, informational, and entertainment purposes only. It’s not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

  3. Oct 22 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork - Feel Light

    Feeling tense or overwhelmed? Sometimes, all you need is a few quiet minutes to slow down and take a breath. In this guided breathing practice, Deepti will help you explore gentle belly breathing to release physical tension and feel a little calmer and lighter. You’ll be guided to notice how your abdomen moves as you breathe in and out, slow your exhale, and allow your body to relax without forcing your breath. Whether you’re feeling tense, overwhelmed, or simply need a quiet moment for yourself, this practice offers an opportunity to pause, settle in, and give yourself some space to breathe. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10 Disclaimer: This practice is not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment. If you feel dizzy, short of breath, uncomfortable, or find yourself forcing your breath, return to normal breathing or stop the practice.

  4. Oct 22 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork - Gratitude

    This guided gratitude meditation is a simple way to practise mindfulness, manage everyday work stress, and bring your attention back to the present moment.  You don’t have to solve everything right now. Just take a breath, give yourself a little space, and remember that you can take things one step at a time. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10 Disclaimer: This practice is not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment. If stress or emotional distress feels severe or difficult to manage, seek appropriate professional support.

  5. Oct 21 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork - Negative Thoughts

    Negative thoughts can sometimes be hard to switch off, especially when we spend too much time worrying about what others think or getting caught up in everyday challenges. In this guided meditation, Deepti takes you through a gentle breathing practice to help you slow down, focus on your breath, and spend a little time with your own thoughts. You’ll be encouraged to accept life’s ups and downs, let go of some of the negativity, and bring your attention back to the present moment whenever your mind wanders. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by your thoughts or simply need a moment of calm, take a few minutes for yourself and breathe. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10

  6. Oct 21 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork - Self Love

    Join Deepti Bhatia for a gentle self-love practice that invites you to slow down, relax, and reconnect with yourself through yoga, pranayama, and mindful breathing. Self-love is about letting go of negative self-talk and self-judgment, recognising your self-worth, and taking time to care for your body and mind. Through this practice, you’ll be guided to calm your body, be fully present without judgment, and remind yourself that you are worthy of love and care. Take this time to recharge, be kind to yourself, and cultivate a little more self-love. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10

  7. Oct 21 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork for Back Pain

    If you’re experiencing mild, familiar low back discomfort or tension, take a few minutes to slow down and focus on your breathing. In this gentle practice, you’ll be guided to find a comfortable position, notice your natural breath, and slowly breathe in and out, allowing your exhales to be a little longer. As you breathe, you’ll bring your attention to your lower back and imagine the muscles around the area becoming a little softer. There’s nothing you need to force or fix. Just take your time, breathe comfortably, and listen to your body. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10 Disclaimer: This practice is not a substitute for medical evaluation or treatment. Stop if your pain worsens, you feel dizzy or short of breath, or the position is uncomfortable.

  8. Oct 20 ·  Bonus

    5-Minute Breathwork for Anxiety

    Feeling anxious or finding it hard to switch off your thoughts?  In this guided breathing exercise, Deepti takes you through simple breathing techniques, including box breathing, to help you relax and feel more settled.  Find a comfortable spot, take a pause, and follow along at your own pace. About Deepti Bhatia Deepti Bhatia is a Certified Yoga Teacher (200-Hour Hatha & Vinyasa, YogaRenew). She offers guided breathwork, meditation and gentle healing practices to calm the mind and care for the body. Website: https://www.yog-med.com/ Book a FREE 15-Minute Virtual Meditation Session: https://calendly.com/deepti-bhatia/yoga-pranayama-session-clone?month=2026-10 Disclaimer: This breathing practice is intended to support relaxation during mild, familiar feelings of anxiety, worry, and restlessness. It is not a substitute for professional medical evaluation or treatment.

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5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to Hormones and Hope, the podcast where we bridge science and wellness for every listener. I’m Dr. Chhaya Makhija, a triple board-certified endocrinologist, lifestyle medicine specialist, and educator/speaker practicing in California. After nearly two decades of helping patients decode their health, I created this podcast to give you trusted, evidence-based insights—delivered with clarity, compassion, and real-life relevance. Let's experience the intersection of clinical endocrinology & lifestyle empowerment.

Information

  • Creator
    Chhaya Makhija, MD
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    79
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Hormones & Hope with Dr. Chhaya
  • Show Website
    Hormones & Hope with Dr. Chhaya

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