Broadway Wellness Naturopath Article of the Month
The Myth of ‘hormone balance’
By Dr. Heidi Lescanec, ND
What most women don’t know is that hormone balance changes over time.
The definition of hormone balance depends on your age + stage.
Here are the differences in a nutshell…
Premenopause (typically under age 40)
During this time, it’s normal to have a monthly period. It’s normal to notice cyclical changes in your body and emotions as your estrogen and progesterone levels rise and fall each month.
One hormonal imbalance to look out for at this stage is 
estrogen dominance.
This is when estrogen levels are too high in comparison to progesterone.
Signs can include heavy or painful periods, breast tenderness, mood swings, acne, heavy bleeding, and bloating.
Perimenopause (can begin as early as age 35)
This is a transitional time that lasts an average of 4 years but can last up to 10!
It’s normal for your hormones to fluctuate dramatically, making your menstrual cycles shorter, longer, or irregular.
One hormonal imbalance to look out for at this stage is low progesterone.
This happens because progesterone levels fall first and faster than estrogen levels. Signs of low progesterone include insomnia, headaches, and anxiety.
Postmenopause (average age of 51)
Once you’ve gone 12 months without a period, you are officially postmenopausal!
This stage of life is naturally defined by low estrogen and progesterone, compared to reproductive phase years.
Some of the best ways to support hormone health at ANY stage:
Eat high-quality proteins and healthy fats
Manage stress and support adrenals with nutrients and adaptogens
Support liver health with nutrition and antioxidants for healthy hormone metabolism
Optimize gut and digestion with fiber, probiotics, and an anti-inflammatory diet
Build muscle strength and a healthy metabolism with resistance training
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to healthy hormones!
I’ve got more info on the menopause transition here.
If you’re looking for an individualized and personalized approach to hormone health, book a consult with me!
This is an area I have been passionate about for over 20 years and I’d love to work with you!
You can book a consult here.
One of my favourite ways to get my daily dose of hormone health promoting cruciferous vegetables (the broccoli family) is this delicious kale salad below.
It was a favourite dish when I cooked at Hollyhock Retreat Center over a dozen years ago! It is the first recipe featured in their wonderful cookbook Hollyhock Garden to Table
CLICK FOR: Arame Avocado Kale Salad with Sesame Vinaigrette
In the News:
Yoga Reduces Discomforts of Menopause
Are you a woman between the ages of 40 and 60? A recent study found that 60 minutes of yoga 2x a week may reduce discomforts of menopause—including physical, psychological, and urogenital concerns.
Because of declining hormones at menopause, exercise becomes more important than ever to support bone health, weight, mood, sleep, and more.
Join the Pink Zones Pink Zones Podcast Club! 🌸🎙️
Are you looking to enhance your health and happiness in midlife and beyond? Tired of the usual advice about battling belly fat and reversing aging? Welcome to the Pink Zones Podcast Club, where we explore a refreshing perspective on thriving through midlife and menopause!
What Are Pink Zones?
I’ve coined the term “Pink Zones” to describe the special conditions and environments where women truly flourish in midlife and beyond. It’s about more than just physical changes; it’s about embracing a vibrant and fulfilling life.
What is the Pink Zones Podcast Club?
Think of it as a book club, but with podcasts! Each month, we focus on a different theme related to cultivating Pink Zones. We curate two intriguing podcast episodes on that theme for you to listen to at your convenience.
How It Works:
- Listen at Your Own Pace: Enjoy the episodes whenever it fits into your schedule.
- Join the Discussion: Gather online once a month for a lively discussion about the episodes and share insights with like-minded individuals.
Why Join Us?
- Grow Your Knowledge: Deepen your understanding of topics relevant to your journey.
- Connect with Community: Engage with others who share your interests and experiences.
- Feel Inspired: Find motivation and support to embrace this vibrant stage of life.
Ready to find and foster your own Pink Zones? Join the Pink Zones Podcast Club and be part of a community that’s redefining midlife!Save the dates! Thursdays Oct 17, Nov 14, Dec 12 at 6pm PST.
https://thepinkzones.com/shop/podcast-club/Join the Podcast Club
SUBSTACK UPDATE:
I recently published my first Substack which is all about The Pink Zones. I am working on a book and this is where it begins! If you would like to read articles specific to the midlife, where I share my own journey and what I am learning from others, I would be delighted for you to join me, you can subscribe for free with the link below!
Warmly,
Dr. Heidi Lescanec, ND
When you’re ready, here a few ways we can work together:
Virtual & Telemedicine Consults– Click Here To Book Online
In-person Care- Click Here to Book Online
Copyright © 2024 Dr. Heidi Lescanec, All rights reserved.
Broadway Wellness Massage and Therapy is a community focused multi-disciplinary health care clinic located in the Fairview Slopes district of beautiful Vancouver, BC. We are centred around Vancouver Registered Massage Therapy, Vancouver Naturopath, and Vancouver Acupuncture. We have proudly been in operation for over twenty years.