How do hormones, strength training, and healthy habits affect the way we age? In this episode of Empowered Wellness, I sit down with Dr. Esra Shermadou, a board-certified family medicine physician and diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine, to discuss women's health, hormone changes, muscle health, and healthy aging. She shares her personal journey through cancer treatment and premature ovarian insufficiency, experiences that inspired her passion for women's health, hormone therapy, obesity medicine, and lifestyle change. We discuss the important role hormones play throughout life and why understanding them can help women make informed decisions about their health. We also explore why strength training is one of the most powerful tools for healthy aging. She explains how maintaining muscle can support metabolism, improve insulin sensitivity, protect bone health, and help women remain active and independent as they get older. Our conversation also covers nutrition, including the importance of protein and fiber, along with sleep, movement, and other lifestyle habits that support long-term wellness. This episode offers practical insights for women who want to build strength, improve their health, and age with confidence. Key Takeaways In this episode, we discuss why hormones are important for women's health and healthy aging, and how premature ovarian insufficiency can affect long-term health. We explore the connection between menopause, bone density, and osteoporosis risk, as well as why strength training is one of the most effective ways to support muscle health, metabolism, and independence as we age. She also explains the truth behind common weightlifting myths and why women should not fear becoming bulky from strength training. We discuss how muscle health affects blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity, along with the important role of protein, fiber, sleep, and movement in supporting healthy aging. Most importantly, we share practical lifestyle habits that can help women build strength, improve their health, and support longevity. About the Guest Dr. Esra Shermadou is a board-certified family medicine physician and a diplomate of the American Board of Obesity Medicine. She is the founder of Sakinah Health, where she focuses on women's health, hormone therapy, obesity medicine, strength training, and healthy aging. Connect with Dr. Esra Shermadou Website: sakinahhealth.com Fitness Instagram: @dresrasgottheiron Instagram, Facebook, TikTok & YouTube: Dr. Esra Shermadou About Dr. Anita Lwanga & South End Medical I am Dr. Anita Lwanga, an Internal Medicine specialist at South End Medical in Regina, Saskatchewan. I provide specialist care for adults with complex medical conditions, including diabetes with complications, hypertension with related complications, heart failure, COPD, and chronic kidney disease. I also see patients for follow-up after a hospital admission. My practice is referral-only. If your family doctor or nurse practitioner believes you would benefit from specialist care, they can send a referral on your behalf by fax to 306-565-3929. Healthcare providers can find referral information at [www.drlwanga.com](http://www.drlwanga.com). Through Empowered Wellness, I share conversations with experts to help people better understand their health and make informed decisions for a healthier future. Disclaimer This content is for educational and entertainment purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your physician or qualified healthcare professional regarding your personal health concerns and treatment decisions. #EmpoweredWellness #HealthyAging #WomensHealth #HormoneHealth #StrengthTraining #BoneHealth #MenopauseHealth #Longevity
