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Published Jul 23, 2024

160 - Why PMS is NOT Normal w/ Dr. Erin Ellis

Dr. Erin Ellis challenges the normalization of severe PMS by addressing hormonal imbalances and environmental influences on menstrual health, while also exploring the effects of hormones on weight management and the importance of adrenal health in stress regulation and overall wellness.
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  • Stress Impact

    Chronic stress significantly impacts adrenal health, with the adrenal glands playing a crucial role in managing stress through cortisol production. explains that these glands, located above the kidneys, release cortisol, which should naturally peak in the morning and decrease throughout the day. However, chronic stress can lead to an imbalance, causing symptoms like fatigue and weight gain. shares her personal experience with stress-induced weight gain, highlighting the importance of stress management.

    Your adrenals can only pump out so much cortisol, and then you're in this, you know, adrenal fatigue.

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    Understanding and managing stress is essential for maintaining adrenal health and preventing dysfunction 1 2.

       

    Dysfunction Signs

    Adrenal dysfunction manifests through various symptoms, including persistent fatigue and unexplained weight gain. notes that even with adequate sleep, individuals may feel exhausted if their adrenal glands are overtaxed. This condition can also disrupt hormonal balance, affecting the thyroid and reproductive hormones. emphasizes the importance of recognizing these symptoms as signals of underlying health issues.

    Fatigue is the biggest one, and then the weight gain would be secondary.

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    Addressing these symptoms requires a comprehensive approach, including stress management and lifestyle adjustments 1 3.

       

    Adrenal Support

    Supporting adrenal health involves lifestyle changes and the use of adaptogenic herbs. recommends ashwagandha and holy basil for their stress-adapting properties, along with essential nutrients like B vitamins and magnesium. Proper hydration is also crucial, as dehydration can elevate cortisol levels and affect metabolism. highlights the importance of making water consumption enjoyable to ensure adequate intake.

    You can't out supplement stress. So I really want to focus on why are you so stressed and what can you do to manage it?

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    These strategies aim to restore balance and support overall well-being 4 5.

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