Tag Archive for: women’s health

The Importance of Hormone Balance and the DUTCH Test for Fertility

By Maria Jones-Sasso, Bioenergetic Practitioner

Hormone health is a critical factor in fertility, yet it’s often overlooked or misunderstood. Whether you’re trying to conceive naturally or considering assisted reproductive technologies, achieving hormone balance is key to supporting your reproductive health. One of the most powerful tools to assess and understand hormone imbalances is the DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones), which offers a comprehensive look at how your hormones function, helping you tailor a personalized approach to boost fertility.

The Role of Hormones in Fertility

Hormones are chemical messengers that regulate virtually every function in your body, including reproduction. In the context of fertility, key hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol need to be in balance for conception to occur and for pregnancy to be maintained.

Estrogen: Essential for regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting the development of a healthy uterine lining.
Progesterone: Crucial for maintaining pregnancy, as it supports the uterine lining for implantation.
Testosterone: Though often associated with male fertility, testosterone is important for female libido, egg quality, and ovarian function.
Cortisol: The stress hormone, which can wreak havoc on fertility when imbalanced, as it interferes with the body’s ability to produce reproductive hormones optimally.

When these hormones are out of balance, issues such as irregular cycles, poor egg quality, low libido, and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can emerge, making it more difficult to conceive. Therefore, understanding your hormone health is one of the first steps toward optimizing fertility.

How the DUTCH Test Works

The DUTCH test offers a cutting-edge approach to hormone testing by measuring hormone levels through dried urine samples collected at specific times of the day. Unlike traditional blood tests, which only offer a snapshot of hormone levels, the DUTCH test provides a more detailed picture by analyzing hormone metabolites—how hormones are broken down and utilized by the body.

Key Benefits of the DUTCH Test for Fertility:

Comprehensive Hormone Overview: The DUTCH test doesn’t just measure estrogen and progesterone. It evaluates cortisol patterns, melatonin, DHEA, and androgens like testosterone, which all play a role in fertility. This broad assessment helps pinpoint hormonal imbalances that may not show up in standard tests.
Stress and Fertility Connection: The test evaluates cortisol rhythms and how your body responds to stress. Chronic stress can throw off ovulation, disrupt menstrual cycles, and impair sperm quality. Understanding your cortisol pattern can help you address stress through lifestyle, diet, and supplements to improve reproductive outcomes.
Insight Into Hormone Metabolism: Knowing how your body metabolizes hormones is critical. For example, the DUTCH test can reveal if you’re overproducing or underutilizing estrogen, which can contribute to conditions like endometriosis or fibroids—both of which can interfere with conception.
Hormone Detox Pathways: The DUTCH test also provides insight into how well your liver detoxifies excess hormones, especially estrogen. Impaired detoxification can lead to estrogen dominance, a common factor in fertility challenges.

Optimizing Fertility Through Hormone Balance

Once you receive the detailed results of your DUTCH test, you and your healthcare provider can create a personalized fertility plan. This might include:

Targeted Supplements: Supplements such as Vitex, DIM, or adaptogenic herbs can help restore hormone balance and improve reproductive health.
Diet and Lifestyle Modifications: Reducing sugar, caffeine, and processed foods while incorporating hormone-friendly foods rich in omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants can help balance hormones.
Stress Management: Mindfulness practices, regular exercise, and therapies like acupuncture or reflexology can reduce cortisol levels, leading to better hormone balance.
Bioidentical Hormones: In some cases, bioidentical hormones may be recommended to correct deficiencies in progesterone or estrogen and improve fertility outcomes.

Conclusion

The journey to fertility can be complex, but understanding the role of hormones through a comprehensive test like the DUTCH can provide essential insights. By identifying imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol, and other key hormones, you can take control of your reproductive health and enhance your chances of conceiving. Whether you’re just beginning to explore your fertility options or have been on the journey for a while, ensuring proper hormone balance is a critical step toward achieving your dream of parenthood.

Incorporating the DUTCH test into your fertility plan can provide you with the in-depth information needed to tailor interventions and ultimately support a successful, healthy pregnancy.

If you’re ready to explore your hormone health, contact a healthcare professional trained in hormone balancing, like myself, to see how the DUTCH test can empower your fertility journey.

Staff Blog, Women's Health

Podcast Spotlight: The Midlife Makeover with Wendy Valentine

Detox, Acupuncture, and Holistic Health with Dr. Alice Honican

Our very own Dr. Alice Honican was recently featured on The Midlife Makeover Show with Wendy Valentine. During this great conversation, Dr. Honican shared her journey into the world of natural medicine and how her upbringing influenced her career path. She explained the principles behind acupuncture, a practice she specializes in, and how it helps balance the body’s energy to promote healing.

According to Dr. Honican, any imbalance in the body is due to an imbalance of energy or “qi,” which can be caused by emotional stress, poor diet, trauma, or genetic issues.

One of the most fascinating aspects of this discussion was the concept of bioenergetic testing. Dr. Honican described how this advanced technique can identify underlying causes of symptoms by tapping into the body’s electrical circuits. This method allows her to pinpoint issues such as toxicity, food sensitivities, or infections, enabling them to provide targeted treatments.

Dr. Honican also emphasized the importance of addressing emotional stress, particularly for women in midlife. She explained how chronic stress can impact the body’s organs and contribute to various health issues. By managing stress and supporting the body’s pathways of elimination, individuals can improve their overall well-being and navigate midlife transitions more smoothly.

Throughout the episode, host Wendy shared her personal experiences with Lyme disease, black mold toxicity, and the transformative power of natural therapies. Her journey of healing through acupuncture and other holistic treatments resonated deeply with Dr. Honican’s insights.

If you’re interested in learning more about how natural therapies can help you live a healthier, more vibrant life, this episode is a must-listen. Dr. Honican’s expertise and compassionate approach provide valuable guidance for anyone seeking to improve their health through naturopathy and traditional Chinese medicine.

You don’t want to miss this great conversation!

Tune in on Apple Podcasts Listen on Spotify Listen on YouTube

Guest Blog, Staff Blog

Interview Spotlight: Julie Miles from Beauty for Broken Life Coaching

A Holistic Approach to Cracking the Hormones Code with Longevity’s Bioenergetic Practitioner, Maria Jones-Sasso

Our very own Bioenergetic Practitioner Maria Jones-Sasso was recently interviewed by Julie Miles of Beauty for Broken Life Coaching. In addition to being a caring and compassionate Patient Coordinator at Longevity, Julie works with women who desire to discover the broken rhythms in their lives and move forward to a beautiful transition to whole health: physically, emotionally, and spiritually.

Maria sat down with Julie for her Summer Wellness Series to discuss all things hormones during the midlife transition! They discuss perimenopause and menopause, as well as balancing hormones like cortisol and thyroid. They also explore the DUTCH test (Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones) as a comprehensive tool for understanding hormones and detoxification pathways.

Sorting out hormonal balance can be an overwhelming puzzle for many women, especially during the perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause seasons. Longevity is here to provide help and holistic solutions through blood work, DUTCH hormone testing.

At our practice, Maria reviews these tests, providing consultation, and helping our patients create a protocol tailored to their unique needs. We look forward to supporting your health with these enhanced diagnostic tools!

If you are interested in learning more about these new testing options or would like to schedule an appointment, please contact our office at 770-642-4646. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the process.

Be sure to tune in for this great conversation!

Watch on YouTube Now!

Staff Blog

Baby is On The Way: Holistic Steps for Bringing a Healthy New Life into the World

By Cristina McMullen, Bioenergetic Practitioner

One of the most exciting times in a woman’s life is when she decides that she wants to become a mom. The thought of creating a tiny human that will call you mama stirs up so many emotions of joy, wonder, and excitement. Unfortunately, all of the wonderful emotions surrounding pregnancy can quickly be met with those of worry and even fear.

Any woman who has been at this crossroad in life before knows these fears all too well. We want to get pregnant at the drop of a dime but fear about the rising rates of infertility. Once pregnant, we want to be the perfect little host for our growing babies and are constantly worried about doing or not doing something that would negatively affect their health. And then, once they are born, we quickly realize that these helpless little humans rely on us for everything and so many decisions can easily become daunting ones with the never ending fear of whether or not you will make the “right” decision for them.

Whew! It’s stressful and exhausting just writing this! But it shouldn’t be this way! All of our worries should never hold enough power to rob us of the incredible joy that comes with parenting! Fortunately, we live in a time where science has uncovered so much about what a little baby’s body needs in order to develop into a healthy adult. And as a Naturopath, one of my jobs is to teach my clients everything I know about these scientific discoveries. Together, we can ease these mama fears with medical facts and take charge of what we can control while also learning how to pivot if and when need be.

So grab some tea or coffee, find a comfy spot to sit, and let’s explore some of the things we can do here at Longevity to help support you, your husband, and your future babies in your journey to becoming a happy, healthy family.

The Biggest Ounce of Prevention Starts Before Conception

When we think about the fact that life is formed by the combining of two cells that come from two other humans, it only makes sense that the health of that new life starts with the health of those two humans. Whether you have underlying symptoms or health conditions you want to address or feel generally healthy, there is so much we can do to optimize your health before you conceive.

Now, I know this is an exciting time in a couples’ life, but I always advise these couples to take anywhere from 3-6 months to really focus on their own health before even trying to conceive. I know it may seem like a long time to some, but this “slow down phase” really optimizes our cellular health and improves fertility rates as well as both the short and long term health of our babies. Plus, more energy is a common result of better overall health and you are going to need all the energy you can get once you are busy taking care of that little one. So what do we need to be doing during these 3-6 months?

Clean Up Your Diet

It is no secret that the standard American diet is not only void of our necessary nutrients but is also loaded with a slew of harmful chemicals, pesticides, herbicides, and emulsifiers. This combination of nutritional deficiencies and toxic burdens can really wreak havoc on the health and integrity of our cells and completely disrupt our gut’s microbiome (something we will talk about in a minute because it plays a major role in the health of our babies). And, no matter how hard someone might try, no amount of supplements is going to overcome a poor diet and lifestyle. This is why our first focus needs to be on cleaning up our diet.

We need to remove the harmful processed foods while also increasing nutrient dense produce. Simply avoiding the aisles of the grocery store as much as possible and focusing on the perimeter of the store is a great way to start. Reading labels of the packaged items you do buy will allow you to avoid ingredients like pro-inflammatory seeds oils and hydrogenated oils, as well as emulsifiers and preservatives. Buying organic produce as much as possible, or at least learning about the “dirty dozen” and making sure those produce items you buy are organic will significantly reduce your exposure to pesticides and herbicides in your food.

If you feel like you need an extra helping hand as you navigate through some dietary changes, scheduling a nutritional consultation with Carrie Rutledge here at Longevity would be a fantastic idea. She can walk you through how to easily make some changes that will truly set you up for success!

Focus on Lifestyle Factors

Aside from the types of foods we are putting into our bodies, the environment around us and how we live in it is the next thing that has the biggest impact on our overall health. So, while we are cleaning out our diets we also have to look to see how we can clean up our environment and balance our lifestyle.

Some of the obvious factors include our quality and quantity of sleep, our activity levels, and our overall stress levels. We have all heard time and time again how important it is to get enough restful sleep at night and how exercise helps improve metabolic health and overall immune function. We have also heard of one if not multiple couples who were so stressed out trying to conceive and it wasn’t until they gave up and went on a relaxing vacation that they finally got pregnant.

So, while we all innately know better, the time leading up to conception is when you really want to prioritize sleep, movement, and ways to decrease overall stress levels. I know first hand, though, that this is so much easier said than done. Life has a way of “getting the best of us” when we want or need things to be as uneventful as possible. This is where some herbal and nutritional supplements can be very helpful in allowing our bodies to wind down, get out of fight or flight, and allow our bodies to get into a more restful, parasympathetic state of functioning.

Other, less common environmental factors people tend to forget about but still have a huge impact on the overall health of our bodies include the toxicity of personal body care products and the air quality in our homes and work environment. Our skin is our largest organ and absorbs every single thing that we put on it. This includes shampoos, conditioners, lotions, deodorants, makeup, and hand sanitizers to name a few. We want to reduce the level of toxins we are putting on our skin because so many of them are endocrine disruptors and can impact fertility rates by throwing off our own body’s hormones.

Toxins in our air also easily make their way into our bodies by the simple act of breathing and things like mold can wreak havoc on every single cell in our bodies. You also do not want to bring your newborn baby home into a moldy environment so navigating through any mold remediation before your baby begins growing both inside the womb or in their new home is going to prevent a lot of stress on everyone involved.

Get On An Individualized Detox Protocol

While we are cleaning up our diet and lifestyle to prevent the accumulation of more toxins into the body, we also want to discover what underlying pathogens and toxins we might already be dealing with that need some help getting eliminated. This is where setting up an appointment with one of our bioenergetic practitioners is going to be extremely beneficial. Yes, there are dozens upon dozens of detox programs on the market, but detoxing is not a one size fits all and many of the programs out there overlook the fact that many people’s detoxification pathways are blocked and end up causing more harm than good.

This is why no two Longevity patients are ever put on the same detox protocol. Instead, each person’s unique toxic load is discovered during an evaluation along with uncovering which organs and systems need to be supported so that the toxins can actually be removed from the body. This information then helps guide each practitioner towards a unique blend of supplements that will allow each person to detox without causing more cellular damage than there already may be.

This step is unfortunately what can take the longest amount of time to complete but is such a vital step before conceiving. This is because both mom and dad run the risk of transferring some of their toxic burdens on to their offspring. And, even though this isn’t completely unavoidable, I know we all would like to minimize this as much as possible. It definitely reduces or even eliminates much of the need for our kiddos to have to go through a rigorous detox program at young ages.

Heal Your Gut And Balance Your Microbiome

Our GI tracts and microbiomes are hot topics these days, and for good reason. So much of our overall health seems to stem back to the health of our guts. This is also why gut health is such an important part in every single one of our detox protocols. But what does mom and dad’s gut health have to do with the baby? You might not initially think very much but emerging science is showing that it might actually have the biggest impact on your baby’s health. Mom’s microbiome in particular is going to play an extremely important role in the immune development of baby during pregnancy, delivery, and in infancy and is why we really need to get our guts happy and healthy before conceiving.

The Importance of Mama’s Microbiome

I know 3-6 months of working on your own health can feel like quite a journey, but once this time has passed and you have been given the green light to start trying, you should quickly see the fruits of your labor in an easy conception. Yay, you’re pregnant!!! But now what? This little one still has to grow in utero for 9 months before making his or her debut into this world. And contrary to original belief, the uterus is not a sterile environment that protects a baby from the outside toxic world.

This is why the health of the expectant mama needs to be the center of attention. No, we do not want to put mama on any detox program during the time she is pregnant or even nursing, but we can impact the health and development of baby’s immune system by focusing on the health of mama’s microbiome.

Believe it or not, microbe-mediated immune education begins during gestation! That’s right! While your precious little one is growing inside your uterus, it is getting messages from your gut and immune cells and learning what is good vs bad. A healthy microbiome that sends healthy messages to the baby has been shown to prevent infant obesity and other metabolic issues, improve infant brain health, decrease infant eczema and allergies, and reduce the risk of autism.

And it doesn’t stop there. Mom’s microbiome has been shown to even modulate neurodevelopment in kids, so much so that it may even provide protection from neurological diseases later on in life!

Thankfully so much of what mama was doing leading up to pregnancy will continue to support her microbiome during pregnancy. Healthy fibers from fruits and vegetables will provide food for the good bacteria in her gut that she is either supporting through a probiotic supplement or fermented foods. This will then ensure that the bacteria have what they need to produce short chain fatty acids like butyrate, which is a major component of breast milk and is currently being studied on its ability to reduce food allergies in little ones.

What we want to be cautious about is upsetting the microbial balance in mama’s gut through things like antibiotics. Granted, there are times when antibiotics are necessary, but those who do end up having to take antibiotics while pregnant really should follow up with one of our naturopaths to make sure we get the microbiome back to where it needs to be as fast as possible.

Supporting Mama During Pregnancy

Every phase of pregnancy is different, and with that comes different nutritional needs and symptoms for mama. During the pregnancy, we want to periodically check mama for nutritional deficiencies. There may come times when she might need more iron, magnesium, or calcium to support her growing baby while also preventing common pregnancy symptoms like nausea, fatigue, muscle cramping, etc.

Other therapies can be very relaxing and beneficial as well. I don’t think I have ever heard an expectant mama turn down a prenatal massage and we have an absolutely amazing massage therapist! Acupuncture can also really help with first trimester nausea as well as possible round ligament pain and discomfort towards the end of pregnancy.

Building Baby Up During their First 1000 Days

The importance of supporting your baby’s developing gut and immune system continues after they are born all the way up until things seem to become fully established by the time they are around 3 years old. This is when they continue to learn and begin to differentiate between good and bad and are taking messages both from mama’s immunity in breast milk and from the environment around them.

This is why mama’s health still needs to be at the forefront, but also the baby’s environment. Gut health for both is front and center as is their exposure to environmental toxins and specific nutrient needs. And, just like each phase of pregnancy takes on different needs and potential challenges, so does every phase in baby’s development.

We absolutely love seeing babies and establishing care with them sooner than later. This way we can come alongside parents during each growing phase, cold and flu season, and nutritional milestones to help ensure that we can build up the microbiome and immune system within these first three years as best as possible. It also helps us keep track of moms to make sure they are adjusting well to parenting, getting the support they need, and that their body and hormones are adjusting during the postpartum phase.

Staff Blog, Women's Health

The Importance of Hormone Balancing during Menopause

Understanding Progesterone, Estrogen, Testosterone, DHEA, Cortisol, and the Role of the DUTCH Test

By Maria Jones-Sasso, Bioenergetic Practitioner

Menopause is a natural phase of life that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. It typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though it can vary widely. This transition, while universal, is uniquely experienced by each woman. Navigating hormones and menopause can be challenging, but understanding the changes and adopting strategies for managing them can help ease the journey.

Understanding Menopause

Menopause is defined as the point in time when a woman has not had a menstrual period for 12 consecutive months. It is preceded by perimenopause, a transitional period where hormonal fluctuations can cause various symptoms. This phase can start several years before menopause, often in a woman’s 40s.

This period is characterized by a decrease in the production of key hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, along with alterations in cortisol and DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) levels. Managing these hormonal shifts effectively can make a substantial difference in how a woman experiences menopause. As their levels decrease, women may experience a range of symptoms.

Understanding Hormonal Changes in Menopause

Estrogen: Estrogen, which plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and maintaining bone density, drops significantly during menopause. This decline is associated with common symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. Low estrogen levels can also contribute to osteoporosis and cardiovascular issues.

Progesterone: Progesterone levels also decrease during menopause. This hormone helps regulate the menstrual cycle and supports the uterus. Lower levels of progesterone can lead to irregular periods and can exacerbate symptoms like mood swings and sleep disturbances.

Testosterone: Although testosterone is often associated with men, it is also important for women. During menopause, testosterone levels decline, which can affect libido, mood, and energy levels. While testosterone levels are not as pronounced as estrogen or progesterone, they still play a role in overall well-being.

DHEA: DHEA is a precursor hormone produced by the adrenal glands that can be converted into estrogen and testosterone. Its levels also decline with age, and this reduction can impact energy, mood, and overall vitality.

Cortisol: Known as the “stress hormone,” cortisol levels can become imbalanced during menopause. Chronic stress or adrenal fatigue can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which may exacerbate menopausal symptoms like weight gain, fatigue, and mood swings.

Common Symptoms of Menopause

Hot Flashes: Sudden feelings of intense heat, often accompanied by sweating and a flushed appearance.
Night Sweats: Hot flashes that occur during sleep, which can lead to disrupted sleep and fatigue.
Irregular Periods: Menstrual cycles may become erratic before they stop altogether.
Vaginal Dryness: Decreased estrogen can lead to dryness, which may cause discomfort during intercourse.
Mood Changes: Hormonal fluctuations can contribute to mood swings, irritability, and even depression.
Sleep Disturbances: Difficulty falling or staying asleep can be common.
Memory and Concentration Issues: Some women report challenges with cognitive functions during this period.

Strategies for Managing Menopause Symptoms

Lifestyle Adjustments:

Diet: A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help manage symptoms. Foods high in calcium and vitamin D are particularly beneficial for bone health.
Exercise: Regular physical activity can help reduce hot flashes, improve mood, and support overall health. Activities like walking, swimming, and yoga can be particularly effective.
Stress Management: Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help manage stress and improve emotional well-being.

Medical Treatments:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): HRT can alleviate many menopause symptoms by replenishing estrogen levels. However, it’s important to discuss the potential risks and benefits with a healthcare provider.
Non-Hormonal Medications: For those who cannot or prefer not to use HRT, other medications, including certain antidepressants and blood pressure medications, may help manage symptoms.
Vaginal Estrogen: Local treatments such as vaginal estrogen can relieve dryness and discomfort without affecting the entire body.

Alternative Therapies:

Herbal Supplements: Some women find relief with herbal supplements like black cohosh, evening primrose oil, or soy isoflavones. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any supplements, as they can interact with other medications.
Acupuncture: This traditional Chinese medicine technique has been shown to help with symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings in some women.

Navigating menopause can be challenging, but understanding how your hormones are fluctuating can be incredibly helpful. Remember, it’s not a one-size-fits-all experience. It is crucial to work closely with a healthcare provider to develop a personalized plan for managing symptoms. The DUTCH test, which stands for Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones, is one tool that some people use to get a detailed look at their hormone levels and how they are metabolizing those hormones. Here’s a basic overview of how the DUTCH test works and how it might help with hormone balancing during menopause:

What is the DUTCH Test?

Comprehensive Hormone Assessment: The DUTCH test measures levels of various hormones including estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, and cortisol. It also provides insights into hormone metabolites, which can help you understand how your body is processing these hormones.

Dried Urine Samples: Instead of blood samples, the DUTCH test uses dried urine samples. You collect these samples at different times of the day to get a comprehensive view of your hormonal patterns.

Metabolites and Patterns: The test not only measures current hormone levels but also assesses how these hormones are metabolized. This can help identify imbalances or patterns that might be contributing to symptoms.

Insight into Stress and Adrenal Function: Given the role of cortisol in stress management, the DUTCH test also assesses adrenal function and cortisol patterns. This can be crucial for addressing symptoms related to chronic stress and adrenal fatigue.

How to Use the DUTCH Test During Menopause:

Identify Imbalances: The DUTCH test can help pinpoint imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone. For example, during menopause, estrogen levels typically decrease, but the DUTCH test can provide more detailed information on how this drop is affecting your body.

Assess Metabolism: Understanding how your body metabolizes hormones can be crucial. For instance, certain estrogen metabolites can be more problematic than others. The DUTCH test can help identify if you need to focus on detoxifying specific types of estrogen.

Customized Treatment: Based on the results, your healthcare provider might recommend personalized hormone replacement therapy (HRT), dietary changes, or lifestyle modifications. This can help target specific symptoms you’re experiencing, such as hot flashes, mood swings, or fatigue.

Monitor Progress: The DUTCH test can be used periodically to monitor how well your hormone balance is improving with any interventions you’re undertaking. It’s a way to see if your treatment plan is effective or if adjustments are needed.

Next Steps to Take:

Consult a Healthcare Provider: Before deciding on the DUTCH test, discuss it with a healthcare provider who is familiar with menopause and hormone testing. They can help you understand if this test is right for you and interpret the results in the context of your overall health.

Prepare for the Test: Follow any preparation instructions provided with the DUTCH test kit. This may involve specific timing for urine collection and avoiding certain foods or medications.

Review Results with Your Provider: Once you have the results, review them with your healthcare provider to develop a plan for managing your symptoms based on the findings.

Adjust as Needed: Be prepared to make adjustments to your treatment or lifestyle based on what the DUTCH test reveals. Hormone balancing is often an iterative process.

Menopause is a unique experience for everyone, and a personalized approach can make a significant difference in managing symptoms and improving quality of life. The DUTCH test is just one of many tools that can provide valuable insights in this journey.

By staying informed, seeking appropriate treatment, and embracing a holistic approach to health, women can navigate menopause with confidence and maintain a high quality of life during this transformative phase.

Guest Blog, Women's Health

Beyond the Bandaid: An Integrative Approach to Women’s Health

An Interview with Dr. Kathryn Hale, Abundant Health Life

Here at Longevity, we love partnering with and promoting like-minded practitioners in the community as we come alongside our patients on their wellness journeys. One of those practitioners is Dr. Kathryn Hale.

Dr. Hale is a board-certified OBGYN with specialized training in Functional Medicine and Integrative Women’s Health. She has nearly a decade and a half of experience in Obstetrics and Gynecology. She completed her internship and residency at the University of Tennessee Health Science Center, receiving valuable high-risk experience at The Regional Medical Center in Memphis. She served at a community health center in South Carolina before moving to North Georgia, where she practiced for over seven years as part of a single specialty group. She has also spent the past few years working as a Diplomat OBGYN Hospitalist with OB Hospitalist Group.

Dr. Hale believes we are designed to live a whole and vibrant life now, and we can achieve an abundant, healthy life through a holistic approach to wellness. The conditions she treats include hypothyroidism and other endocrine disorders, and hormone imbalances. She also provides preconception/fertility and weight loss support.

We interviewed Dr. Hale to learn more about her practice and the integrative services she offers.

What is the heart and mission behind your practice and the work you do?

I want to empower women to achieve the health and vitality they deserve to live life on their terms.

When it comes to their reproductive and hormonal health, what do you think is the biggest obstacle or risk factor facing women today? What do you wish more women knew when it comes to their overall health and wellness?

The biggest obstacle facing women’s health is that women are often just not heard when they seek care. I wish more women knew that they deserve the time and investment it takes to make their health a priority. If they are well, the benefits trickle down to those they love and care about. They deserve to be well nourished and have the strength and energy to meet the demands of their lives. Achieving better health doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple sustainable shifts can alter the trajectory of your health journey.

So many of our female patients come to us with insomnia issues. What are your recommendations for getting more restorative sleep?

I recommend that women treat their sleep like they treat babies learning to sleep at night. Establish a consistent sleep schedule. Develop a wind down routine that includes blue blocking glasses from sundown, shutting down electronics at least an hour before bedtime. Create safety in your body through relaxation practices such as epsom salt baths and yoga. Release the day by dumping thoughts into a journal. Some women also benefit from natural progesterone supplementation, magnesium glycinate and herbs and supplements that help to calm the nervous system like Lavender and L-theanine. Cut out the afternoon caffeine if you struggle with sleep.

What are some simple steps women can take today to manage stress, prevent disease, and feel more whole and vibrant in mind, body, and spirit?

Slow down. Many women that I see are burned out and suffering the consequences of hormone dysfunction and autoimmune disease. Prioritize hydration, a nutrient dense diet, regular movement and spiritual/mind body practices. I’ve also been discovering more and more that women suffer from lack of meaningful connection and prioritizing joy.

Our practice takes a preventative approach to women’s health, utilizing proactive testing to assess disease development and holistic supporting therapies to promote detoxification. How can our practices work hand-in-hand to help our clients feel their very best?

I love that. I am definitely a fan of regular comprehensive detox and taking a proactive approach to wellness. I have the knowledge and experience to support the whole woman when situations arise that require more expertise in terms of hormonal health and women’s health in general. Abundant Health Life can come alongside Longevity Health when Functional Testing is needed to dig deeper and get to the root of what is impacting a woman’s health. We also offer a wide range of nutrition, hormonal, herbal and if need be pharmaceutical therapeutics to help a woman heal from the inside out. As a telemedicine practice, we also bring this type of care to women who, due to the logistics of life or geography, have challenges in accessing whole body wellness services.

To learn more about Dr. Hale and her practice, visit https://www.abundanthealthlife.com/

Women's Health

A Holistic Approach to Infertility in the 21st Century

By Cristina McMullen, ND, Certified Wellness Coach, Bio-Energetic Practitioner

Infertility has been and remains to be one of the most significant medical and even social problems of our modern times. It is a phenomenon that affects around 50-80 million people worldwide, classifying 8-10% of couples as infertile. In the United States alone, 19% of women aged between 15-49 years old are unable to get pregnant after a solid year of trying to conceive.

And this statistic is sadly on a steady incline. So much so that the use of assisted reproductive technology by infertile couples is increasing by about 5-10% per year! Yes, in vitro fertilization (IVF) therapy has come a long, long way and has a much better success rate, but the drastic increase for its need makes you wonder why infertility rates are increasing so rapidly, and if there are more holistic measures couples could try before resorting to IVF and other fertility treatments.

Let’s break down some of the most common causes of infertility as well as some nutritional, herbal, and therapeutic options that can help someone improve endocrine function and make it more likely for couples to be able to conceive naturally.

What Exactly is Infertility and What Causes It?

Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after intentionally trying to for at least one full year. This inability to conceive can be caused by a whole host of underlying conditions that can be affecting either the woman or the man. In fact, roughly 30% of infertility is attributed solely to the female, another 30% is attributed solely to the male, 30% can be attributed to a combination of both partners, and another 10% seems to have an unknown cause. So, infertility indeed is a two-way street, but for today’s purposes, we are going to be focusing on female infertility.

Some of the more common causes of infertility in women include Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, diminished or low ovarian reserve, poor egg quality, thin endometrial lining,inflammatory disease of the uterus, and uterine fibroids.

Endometriosis is a very complex disease that is becoming a major cause of infertility in women. Up to 30-50% of women with endometriosis suffer from infertility and a whopping 30-50% of infertile women have endometriosis. Though the medical community is not quite sure exactly what causes this disease, women who suffer from it usually have higher levels of estrogen than other women and is most likely at least part of what causes endometrial tissue to grow outside of the uterus and in the abdominal cavity. This build up of tissue outside of the uterus can cause a distorted anatomy of the pelvis, adhesions, scarred fallopian tubes, inflammation of the pelvic structures, changes to the hormonal environment of the eggs and altered egg quality, as well as impaired implantation of pregnancy.

PCOS is another major cause of infertility, affecting roughly 5- 10% of women. It is caused by an overproduction of estrogen and increased testosterone levels that can affect egg quality and inhibit proper ovulation. Most, if not all, of the other causes of infertility also have some form of hormonal imbalance that may not be quite as severe but still affect the reproductive organs enough to inhibit a woman’s ability to conceive.

While hormonal imbalances are the major player in female infertility, there are still other factors that can play a rather significant role. Blood sugar imbalances, poor dietary choices, smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, exposure to toxic environmental chemicals, chronic infections, and even extremely high levels of stress can all affect a woman’s body in a way that would inhibit her from being able to become pregnant.

Whatever the cause of infertility, at the root of all cases there is an imbalance or disruption in the body that needs to be corrected. According to the philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), infertility occurs because of a disrupted vital balance and blockage of Qi energy. In other words, a woman’s natural balanced state, from the time she begins menstruating to the time she begins menopause, is a state of “potentially conceiving” and any deviation from that state does not necessarily imply “infertility,” but means a shift from one’s optimum reproductive health.

So the answer to infertility does not always have to rely on medical interventions like IVF, but rather can be resolved by figuring out what is causing her body to be out of balance and bringing it back into homeostasis.

Disruptions in the Body

There is no denying that in today’s world we are constantly being bombarded by chemicals and other environmental toxins. These chemicals build up in our bodies and can cause a whole slew of health issues. When it

comes to women and their reproductive health, a category of chemicals called endocrine disruptors are

of major concern. When these specific types of chemicals enter the bloodstream, they have the ability to mimic the body’s natural hormones and end up blocking or binding to hormone receptors.

A specific subcategory of endocrine disrupting chemicals, called xenoestrogens, specifically have an estrogen-like effect. When these chemicals are in a woman’s body, they increase total estrogen, causing estrogen dominance. Since these chemicals are not biodegradable, they are also stored in fat cells and contribute to a host of endocrine disorders like endometriosis and PCOS, making them major underlying factors in infertility. Some of the more common xenoestrogens in our environment include parabens found in skincare products, BPA, phthalates, and PCBs found in plastics, and others found in insecticides, herbicides, glues, paints, and grocery store receipt paper. Certain foods that we eat even contain xenoestrogens from either the chemicals that were sprayed on them while growing or the fact that they are heavily processed and full of chemicals themselves.

Genetics and mutations to certain genes can also play a major role in a woman’s fertility. MTHFR mutations are alterations to certain genes that affect the body’s methylation pathways. Now,methylation is very intricate and complex, but in the case of infertility, you just need to know that methylation is involved in the breakdown of hormones and is also important for tissue growth and cellular development. This includes the growth of the endometrium and egg during the menstrual cycle. Since endometrial growth prepares a fertilized egg to implant into its lining, a disruption in methylation may affect early stages of pregnancy and even lead to miscarriages.

Certain mutations can also cause follicles in women to make less estrogen, which then makes the ovaries less responsive to follicle stimulating hormones and can affect overall egg health and ovulation. High homocysteine levels are also associated with MTHFR mutations and high homocysteine levels have been correlated with a

lack of ovulation both in healthy women and those with PCOS. Homocysteine can also increase a woman’s risk of blood clots because it irritates blood vessels. In terms of pregnancy, this can interfere with implantation and embryonic development and can explain why some women end up needing to take blood thinners in order to successfully conceive.

Underlying chronic microbial infections can also put such a burden on the body that it is unable to conceive. For example, chronic yeast or fungal infections within the body can lead to a poor vaginal microbiome and can dramatically impact a woman’s ability to get pregnant. Other underlying viral infections such as Epstein Barr Virus and a heavy metal burden can tax the thyroid and affect its ability to produce other hormones needed for fertility.

High levels of stress can exhaust the adrenal glands and also have a major impact on hormone production and overall fertility. There is a reason why we hear stories of couples who tried for years to get pregnant, only to finally find themselves pregnant after they gave up and stopped stressing out about the intricacies of the process. The body can become too stressed to take on anything else and once that main stressor was removed, it can finally prioritize conception.

What Holistic Steps Can Be Taken To Improve Fertility Chances?

Like the famous saying goes, “knowledge is power.” And now that we have a better understanding about some of the things that can cause imbalances in a woman’s body, we can figure out how bring the body back into harmony.

Detoxification and Supplementation

Before even considering pregnancy, a woman needs to make sure that the microbial and environmental toxins that are burdening her body are removed from her system. While there are some general suggestions on how to go about this, the toxic slew within each person is unique to them and is best handled on an individual basis so that supplements and protocols can be customized to each person.

Bioenergetic testing can help pinpoint exactly what needs to be detoxed from the body and a knowledgeable practitioner can find the best remedies to do the job. After individual burdens have been eliminated from the body, I believe that any couple that wants to get pregnant should do a general total body cleanse together. Like stated before, our environment is full of toxins these days that can not only affect our ability to get pregnant, but once pregnant these chemicals can cross the placental wall and enter the baby’s bloodstream. Studies have shown up to 287 different chemicals in the blood of umbilical cords, many of which are carcinogenic. It is very wise for both partners to eliminate as many of these harmful toxins from their bodies before they try to conceive.

My personal favorite cleanse that we carry is called the Core Restore Kit by Ortho Molecular. It is a comprehensive cleanse that lasts either 7 or 14 days (you can choose) and focuses on maximizing liver detoxification. It also follows more of a paleo/whole 30 diet so the elimination of sugar and caffeine will nourish the adrenal glands and help to kill off any yeast or fungal overgrowth.

Now that each partner’s bodies are cleansed from environmental and microbial toxins, it is time to address nutritional support and potential genetic mutations. The standard recommendations include a prenatal multivitamin and fish oil supplement. Folate in particular is a major focus when it comes to supplements as studies have shown that folate helps to prevent neural tube birth defects.

When it comes to the matter of MTHFR mutations, however, not every form of folate is created equal. Folate is actually a collective term that refers to all types of B9, including folic acid and methylfolate. Folic acid is the synthetic, inactive form that has to be made active (methylated) by enzymes in the methylation pathway. Methylfolate, however, is already in its active form. Those with MTHFR mutations need to make sure their prenatal multivitamin contains methylfolate and not folic acid. This is because those with the gene mutation

cannot properly convert folic acid into methylfolate. Instead, they need to take the form of B9 that does not need to run through the methylation pathways in order to become usable by the body. The general recommendation for folate is 400-600 mcg daily. If someone has suffered multiple miscarriages, OBGYNs may recommend up to 4 mg (4,000 mcg) daily. The main prenatal multivitamin we carry in our Nutrition Shop is a complete multivitamin and fish oil combo that contains 1,700 mcg of methylfolate.

Remember also that people with MTHFR mutations also tend to have higher histamine levels. Trimethylglycine (TMG) is another nutrient that can significantly help bring down high homocysteine levels in the body. While we have some B complex vitamins that contain TMG, I usually recommend adding a product called Homocysteine Supreme by Designs for Health. This product contains a hefty dose of TMG (900 mg) along with extra B vitamins, including an extra 3,400 mcg of methylfolate. But don’t worry about combining the prenatal with the Homocysteine Supreme. Higher serum folate levels are associated with higher luteal phase progesterone levels, which is ideal for fertility and even pregnancy.

Another supplement that I find to be very important both while trying to conceive and during pregnancy is a probiotic. The one I recommend to these women, however, is not your run of the mill probiotic. My favorite for conception and pregnancy is Ortho Biotic Women’s. This is because it contains only strains of bacteria that are found to colonize a healthy vaginal microbiome.

Why is this important? Well, the microbiome of any part of our bodies impacts the pH of that part of the body. When it comes to trying to conceive, an imbalanced pH level of the cervix or vagina can damage sperm enough to prevent it from fertilizing an egg. By making sure the vaginal microbiome is what it should be will ensure an ideal pH for sperm to start their journey. Pregnant women should also stay on this probiotic, or at least get back on it towards the end of the pregnancy, so that the vaginal microbiome is again ideal for when the baby makes his or her way down the birthing canal and gets covered in all those immune boosting, jumpstarting bacteria.

Women who suffer from PCOS, endometriosis and other hormonal imbalances should also be taking a few other supplements to target the estrogen dominance and potential blood sugar irregularities. DIM is a phytoestrogen that actually binds to the xenoestrogens in the bloodstream and flushes them out of the body. We have a few different DIM products that you and your practitioner can choose from and decide which is the best for you.

Inositol improves insulin resistance and is recommended for those with PCOS in particular. Sensitol is the product we carry and it contains two forms of insositol (myo- and d-chiro-) along with alpha lipoic acid to support normal insulin function and cellular metabolism. If your blood sugars are extremely high, and bordering diabetes, berberine is an herb that has actually been shown to be just as effective as metformin in regulating blood sugar levels. Women with PCOS who have very high testosterone levels need to also get that balanced out before conceiving. This is where a product by Douglas Labs called TestoQuench for Women would come into play because it moderate androgen activity in the body.

Last, but not least, is probably my favorite fertility product. I love to recommend this one whenever we have done all of the detoxifying and supporting nutritionally, and are yet to get a positive pregnancy test. Fertile Garden by Health Concerns is a Chinese Herbal blend that helps to regulate the menstrual cycle and nourishes the reproductive system. In TCM terms it does this by replenishing yin and regulating the flow of Qi and blood. It is also especially helpful for women trying to conceive in their mid-30s and 40s, and can even help men with normal erectile function and sperm count.

Supporting Therapies

Acupuncture is probably most well-known to help increase fertility. It has proven itself so much so that a lot of fertility clinics work with acupuncturists in order to increase their client’s chances of a successful embryo transfer. It does this by bringing the body back into balance, which increases the chances of conception. What is it balancing mainly? In more TCM lingo, acupuncture mainly works to balance a woman’s “kidney essence” or “heavenly qi” when it comes to fertility.

The other supporting therapy that we have seen amazing results with is vaginal ozone therapy. Ozone is O3 and

stimulates the production of immunoglobulins in the blood, increases resistance of microorganisms to

microbes, improves oxygen transport mechanisms, and destroys viruses. When administered vaginally, it stimulates hormone balance (which is great for PCOS, endometriosis, and fibroids), helps balance vaginal pH, boost womb health, and eliminate inflammation. All of this makes it much easier for sperm to make it to the fallopian tubes and pass through them. Our HOCATT therapy contains ozone that can be personally administered through a vaginal catheter.

Nutrition Matters

Nutrition is also vital for optimum fertility. If you have ever heard me talk, you know I am a huge advocate for using food as medicine, and this is especially important in terms of our reproductive system health. While trying to conceive, you want to focus on real food. Load up on foods from the perimeter of the grocery store and

avoid as many packaged, processed foods as possible. Since conventionally grown fruits and vegetables are heavily sprayed with xenoestrogen containing pesticides and herbicides, buy organic whenever possible.

You can also visit www.ewg.org and look up their Dirty Dozen list. This lets you know the 12 common produce items that contain the highest pesticide/herbicide residual on them that you want to fork up the extra money to buy organic. And that goes for the products that are made from these ingredients too (think ketchup and tomato sauce since tomatoes are on the list).

Since we want high levels of folate in the bloodstream, try to get at least one green leafy vegetable in each day. This includes broccoli, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. Other sources of folate include legumes, meat, and

nut butters. The leafy greens and cruciferous vegetables pack an extra punch because they are full of

the phytochemicals that flush out xenoestrogens from the body. So, feel free to go over that one serving a day.

Fruits, though we want to watch the kinds we eat to regulate blood sugar levels, such as cantaloupe, grapefruits, and other citrus fruits will give you a natural source of inositol. Lastly, a big forkful of sauerkraut or some other fermented vegetable will help balance pH and nourish the microbiome.

In our many years of practice at Longevity, we’ve seen so many couples who were labeled as infertile find hope and healing, and to finally see their prayer for a baby be answered! Before jumping right to expensive fertility treatments, we urge you to do some detective work to get to the root cause of the issue. And remember that only 30% of infertility is the sole cause of the female. Don’t carry that burden without first making sure your husband’s health isn’t also playing a role in your inability to conceive. Wherever you are in your fertility journey, our knowledgeable practitioners and staff are here to partner with you to find answers, and support your body every step of the way.

Guest Blog, Women's Health

Cycle Syncing: How to Live in Alignment with Your Monthly Cycle

By Megan Rempel, Registered Nurse & Health Coach

We’ve all had those weeks where we’re on top of our game; we feel amazing, sexy, energetic, creative. We feel like we can do ALL the things, eating healthy feels easy, exercising is something we want to do…..

And then, BOOM. You suddenly don’t feel like doing ANYTHING. You second guess yourself, you question your goals, you don’t want to be social, you want to eat ALL THE THINGS. Working out is the last thing you feel like doing. And then of course, the negative self talk starts.

“I suck.”

“I’m a failure”

“I can’t stick to anything”

“Who do I think I am anyways?”

Been there? My guess is yes.

Now let me just tell you – YOU ARE NORMAL.

BUT – there is a way to FEEL a whole lot better, ALL MONTH LONG. But it’s going to require you to understand the energies of your cycle. Yes, your monthly cycle.

Ever heard of cycle syncing?⠀

Cycle syncing is when you adapt your diet, workout calendar, social calendar, and to-do lists to the 4 different phases of your monthly cycle! This way you are able to optimize what your body needs instead of pushing it to perform at the same level all the time.

As a woman with a cycle, you are going through four very unique phases every 28’ish days. Most women are familiar with their menstrual phase (aka their period) and most also know there is a time of the month where they are most fertile (aka their ovulatory phase).

But there is so much more to understand! And when you sync your nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle to your monthly cycle, not only will you balance your hormones and prevent painful periods (PMS is NOT normal btw!), but you will also tap into the superpowers that each phase of our cycle has.

Let’s take a look at each of the four phases, starting with the day your bleed ends, and how you can begin to tap into these superpowers.

Follicular Phase

Your energy is on the rise and you’re feeling refreshed and ready to get out there and socialize. Your brain is wired to create – start working on new projects, brainstorm ideas, push yourself out of your comfort zone and try something new. You’re open to new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone will feel exciting. Incorporate cardio and any type of energizing forms of movement to your workout routine.

Ovulatory Phase

Your energy is at its highest and you’re magnetic! Use this energy to your advantage and go after what you want. This is also a great time to schedule an interview, speaking gig, or have an important conversation since you are able to communicate your thoughts and feelings more clearly. For your workout routine, do all the high intensity interval training that you want. Your body and energy levels will love it.

Luteal Phase

This is the phase that will lead up to your bleed. Your energy levels are starting to dwindle, and this is when you may feel more introverted. Use this time to organize your house, get your chores done, pay your bills and wrap up tasks and projects. You can also consider doing some meal prepping for your menstrual phase. Slow down your social engagements and enjoy some me-time. As far as movement goes, try Pilates, barre, yoga or walks, depending on your energy.

Menstrual Phase

This is the time to slow down, rest, and make self-care a high priority. Especially during the first couple of days of your bleed. Remove as much off your plate as possible and get cozy. Use this opportunity to reflect back on the past month, journal, adjust the course if needed. Since you’re highly intuitive, listen to the messages and signals from within. Do some gentle movement like yin or restorative yoga, go for a walk or stretch if you feel like it.

By allowing your monthly cycle to be a roadmap for a more effortless way of living, you’ll discover that you can decrease unnecessary stress in your life, feel less overwhelmed, and instead, feel more powerful, energized, and confident. You deserve to feel good ALL month long. And it IS possible.

For more information on how to begin living in alignment with your cycle, you can download this free PDF on simple tips to get started with Cycle Syncing today. Also, be sure to subscribe to Megan’s podcast, Fit to be a Mama.

Megan Rempel is a Registered Nurse with a certificate in Women’s Hormonal Health, a health coach, and a cycle syncing expert. Her mission is to help other women discover that life can actually be easier, IF they tap into the magic that we’ve had inside us all along – our monthly cycle. Her own journey from overwhelmed and exhausted mom of 4 to gaining back control of her life through simple and effective things like cycle syncing is what fuels her passion to help women get out of survival mode and find ease and joy in their lives. Follow Megan on Instagram @itsmeganrempel4.