Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+ Ep. 508 Perimenopause Uncovered: From Heavy Periods to Stubborn Weight Gain – A Talk with Dr. Heather Hirsch | Menopause & Perimenopause
15 snips
Oct 11, 2025 
Dr. Heather Hirsch, a board-certified internist and founder of Health by Heather Hirsch, dives deep into perimenopause. They discuss the hormonal chaos behind heavy periods, the correlation between weight loss resistance and midlife, and the importance of strength training and protein. Dr. Hirsch sheds light on estrogen's role in metabolic health and how it impacts multiple organ systems. She emphasizes the need for better clinician education on perimenopause and explores unique symptoms that often go unnoticed, proving it's an eye-opening conversation for women navigating this phase.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Crime Scene Periods And Puberty In Reverse
- Cynthia described her 'crime scene' heavy periods while working in the hospital and the logistics nightmare they caused.
- Heather compared perimenopause to 'puberty in reverse' that often amplifies menstrual changes and confusion.
Lift More And Eat Protein
- Prioritize strength training and increase protein to preserve muscle and metabolic rate.
- Combine resistance work with cardio to support bone health and insulin sensitivity.
Estrogen's Role In Metabolism
- Estrogen acts as a metabolic regulator and helps maintain insulin sensitivity.
- Menopausal hormone therapy correlated with less weight gain and lower progression to diabetes in WHI findings.
