Menopause is often talked about in terms of hot flushes and night sweats—but what about the changes happening in the brain? In this episode of Mind Your Being, I speak with neuroscientist and researcher Lauren Dewsbury from NICM Health Research Institute at Western Sydney University about the often-underdiscussed cognitive and emotional changes that can occur during the menopause transition. Lauren explains what estrogen is doing in the brain, how hormonal changes can affect brain energy, and why some women experience symptoms such as brain fog, difficulty concentrating, finding words, cognitive fatigue and changes in mood and stress resilience. We also explore Lauren's qualitative research into the lived experiences of peri- and postmenopausal women—including the impact these changes can have on confidence, identity, healthcare experiences and working life. The conversation then turns to creatine. Best known for its role in muscle performance and recovery, creatine is now attracting interest for its potential role in brain energy and cognitive health. Lauren explains why researchers are investigating it, what the evidence tells us so far, and why we need to be cautious about drawing conclusions from the relatively early research. Lauren also shares her team's MENOCOG feasibility study, which is investigating whether creatine may have potential benefits for cognitive health in postmenopausal women. We finish by talking about what women can do right now to support brain health—including movement, sleep, managing cognitive load, stress recovery and social connection. An informative and compassionate conversation about the female brain, menopause, cognitive health and where the research is heading. Bio Lauren Dewsbury is a cognitive neuroscientist, PhD researcher and keynote speaker working to change how we understand women’s brain health in midlife. Her work explores how the brain changes during the menopause transition—from brain fog, memory changes and mood, to the shifts in brain energy that may sit beneath them. She is the trial lead for MENOCOG, an Australian clinical trial investigating creatine supplementation as a potential new approach to supporting cognition and mood in postmenopausal women. Lauren’s research also brings visibility to women’s lived experiences of menopause, including the often-overlooked effects of cognitive change on confidence, identity and performance at work. At the heart of her work is a commitment to empowering women with credible, evidence-based knowledge so they can take a more informed and proactive role in shaping their long-term health trajectory with greater agency. Through her research, writing, and speaking, Lauren brings the science of women’s brain health out of the laboratory and into the conversations, workplaces and healthcare decisions where it can make a meaningful difference. Her work has been featured in several prominent Australian media publications including the Australian Financial Review, New Scientist and the Herald Sun. Links: MENOCOG website: https://menocog.com.au/ MENOCOG screening survey: https://redcap.link/menocog Lauren Dewsbury website: www.laurendewsbury.com Lauren Instagram @lauren_dewsburyphd AFR Article Herald Sun coverage on Menocog https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/ https://www.menopause.org.au/ https://menopausealliance.au/ https://mindyourbeing.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/mindyourbeingpodcast/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61574785410170# https://x.com/mind_yourbeing https://www.youtube.com/@MindYourBeingPodcast Thanks so much for listening, Cass x Disclaimer: The information provided on the Mind Your Being Podcast is for general informational, educational, and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical, psychological, or nutritional advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical or mental health condition. Reliance on any information provided by the Mind Your Being Podcast, its hosts, guests, or others appearing on the podcast is solely at your own risk. The views and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of the podcast creators or hosts.
