The Female Health Solution Podcast – Détails, épisodes et analyse

Today is a little different...I'm pulling back the curtain on what's really happening inside your body during this stage of life—and what most women are never told. If you're in your 40s (or even your late 30s) and you've wondered, "Is this perimenopause… or is something actually wrong with me?" this conversation is for you.

As I've moved into my forties myself, and having worked with hundreds of women in this phase, I've become even more aware of how much confusion and noise surrounds this transition. Perimenopause has almost become a buzzword, but very few women understand what it truly is, how long it can last, or why two women the same age can have completely different experiences. I share my own reflections—the way I think about aging, how I look at my life in five-year chapters, and what I want the next decades to look like—not from fear, but from clarity.

Inside this episode, I take you behind the scenes of what's happening hormonally:
why menopause is defined as a full 12 months without a cycle, what perimenopause actually means, and why your hormone levels don't simply "step down" in a neat little staircase (even though I wish it worked that way!). Instead, it's more like a roller coaster—one that affects mood, energy, weight, sleep, and stress far more than most people realize.

And here's the part most women never hear: sometimes what feels like perimenopause isn't perimenopause at all. It's adrenal fatigue. It's stress. It's chronic under-fueling. It's a testosterone drop from years of dieting. It's nutrient deficiencies—like the woman I talk about in this episode who had no idea she was severely B12 deficient until we tested. These things mimic perimenopause almost perfectly, and if you don't know what you're looking at, you can't fix it.

That's why I also walk through the kind of testing that actually gives answers—specifically DUTCH testing—and why it's so valuable in understanding estrogen metabolism, progesterone patterns, cortisol, stress response, nutrient status, and more. When you see the full picture, you stop guessing… and you finally know how to support your body through this phase of life.

If you've been feeling stuck, confused, or like your body has changed faster than your habits have, this episode will help you reconnect the dots. Because yes—your hormones are shifting. Yes—your needs are changing. But this transition is not something to fear. It's something to understand, so you can move through it feeling grounded, supported, and at home in your body again.

This free, short-form series goes even deeper into:

• the real signs of perimenopause
• the symptoms that aren't perimenopause (but often get blamed on it)
• why so many women are dismissed or misdiagnosed
• what your hormones should be doing in your 40s
• how adrenal function plays a bigger role than anyone tells you
• the testing that brings all the answers into one place
• practical steps to support your metabolism, mood, and energy right now

If you want clarity—real clarity—on where you are in the transition and what your body is asking for, click the link and get immediate access.

Listen to the FREE Perimenopause Mini Series

In this episode, I'm breaking down exactly how specific herbs in our cycle-based tinctures support your hormones in a real, clinical way—not just "woo" or wishful thinking.

We talk through five key herbs you'll find in my Estrogen support and progesterone-support tinctures—red clover, angelica, white peony, Vitex, and red raspberry leaf—and what they actually do in the body:

• How red clover helps your estrogen receptors work properly (without "adding more estrogen") so you can calm brain fog, mood swings, and night sweats.

• Why angelica and white peony are powerful blood- and yin-tonics that support your liver, improve hormone metabolism, and ease estrogen dominance symptoms like heavy bleeding and ragey PMS.

• How white peony and Vitex work on the luteal phase to support progesterone, stabilize your cycle, and improve PMS, sleep, and even fertility.

• Why red raspberry leaf is a true uterine tonic that supports cramping, irregular cycles, and overall uterine health.

I share how these tinctures are used in a cycle-specific way (Estrogen days 1–14, progesterone support days 15–28), why tincture form is so much more potent and adjustable than a one-size-fits-all capsule, and how they fit into a functional medicine approach—layered with nutrition, lifestyle, and, when needed, hormone testing.

If you've been curious about trying the tinctures or finally getting a DUTCH hormone test, this is the best time all year to do it:

Black Friday Tincture Sale (11/24–12/1)

• 15% off all tinctures

• Plus free shipping

• Use code BFSALE at checkout

https://nutritionforyourhormones.com/

These are ideal if you're dealing with:

• Heavy or painful periods

• Mood swings, anger, or "rage" PMS

• Night sweats, brain fog, or irregular cycles

• Perimenopause shifts that suddenly make your cycle feel unpredictable

DUTCH Test Black Friday Offer (now through 12/1)
If you're ready for deeper answers and a customized plan, pair your tincture support with a full comprehensive hormone test and consultation.

• $100 off the DUTCH test through 12/1

• Grab your discounted test here:
  👉 https://dr-beth-westie.mykajabi.com/offers/ziRZN6NX?coupon_code=BF

The DUTCH test shows us exactly how you're producing, converting, and clearing hormones like estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and androgens—so we're not guessing with your protocol or piling on supplements you don't actually need.

If you're listening and thinking, "I've cleaned up my diet, I've done the basics, but my cycle still runs my life," this is your sign to take the next step. Start with the tinctures, go deeper with the DUTCH test, and use this Black Friday window to save while you do it.

I am so excited share something I've never opened to the public before: my brand-new Hormone Foundations Program.

Here's what makes the Hormone Foundations Program different:

• DUTCH hormone testing shipped to your home so you can finally see what's going on with your hormones.

• Personalized, one-on-one recommendations based on your results—not cookie-cutter protocols.

• Monthly one-on-one calls for six months, plus email support and an educational video library.

• A second DUTCH test at the end so we can measure your before-and-after progress in black and white.

This program is all about customizing the process to you—whether your body responds quickly, slowly, or hits bumps in the road. I don't force you into a template. I adapt as your body changes, so you always know the next step forward.

And here's the best part:

👉 The first 20 women who join will get their first round of customized supplements completely on us. That's right—your protocol will be based on your unique results, and we'll cover the first set to get you started strong.

If you've been struggling with fatigue, brain fog, cycle issues, or just the nagging feeling that "something's off," this is your chance to finally get answers and real guidance.

Click below grab your spot today—because those first 20 spots with free supplements will go fast. I can't wait to help you lay the foundation for balanced hormones and a body that actually works with you instead of against you.

Join the Hormone Foundations Program: https://drbethwestie.com/hormone-foundations-program/

So, you're trying to conceive. Or maybe you just really want to know what's going on with your cycle. 

Either way, tracking your hormones throughout the month will give you so MUCH INFORMATION about your health, fertility and symptoms. 

I had an amazing conversation with Rose MacKenzie, Medical Affairs Specialist at Mira, to discuss the best way to track your cycle and fertility. 

We often hear about the infamous 28-day cycle, but the reality is, our cycles are unique, and ovulation isn't as predictable as we may think. 

You are not fertile every day of the month. Pinpointing ovulation can be challenging without an accurate tracking system. 

Mira is a modern fertility tracker that uses hormone testing to give you real-time insights into your cycle. Unlike traditional methods that might rely solely on temperature or symptoms, Mira tracks luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in your urine, giving you precise data about your ovulation. LH spikes right before ovulation, making it one of the most reliable markers for fertility.

The tracker syncs with an app, allowing you to monitor your results over time. This can be especially helpful if you have irregular cycles or conditions like PCOS, as Mira will track your unique hormone fluctuations instead of relying on the average 28-day cycle.

With this data, you'll be able to track your hormone levels throughout your cycle and identify trends. This is especially helpful for women who experience irregular cycles or have conditions like PCOS or endometriosis.

If you've been struggling with irregular cycles, unexplained symptoms, or just want to optimize your health, Mira is a powerful tool to have in your corner. It's time to take control of your fertility journey—get started today!

Get 15% OFF Mira products with code: DRBETH15

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com

ADHD… it's not just a buzzword and I would know. 

Growing up as a neurodiverse child meant constantly feeling like I wasn't measuring up, especially in traditional school environments. My family, particularly my older sister, was full of "smart" people, and I felt like the odd one out. I wasn't bad at school, but it wasn't until I was 16 that I was officially diagnosed with ADHD. Before that, I was missing questions on assignments simply because I couldn't visually process them the same way others did.

One critical aspect of ADHD that often goes unnoticed is how hormones impact brain function. As women, our bodies are constantly cycling through hormonal changes—whether it's the monthly menstrual cycle, pregnancy, or perimenopause—and each phase can significantly affect our focus, mental clarity, and emotional health. 

For example, I noticed that during certain phases of my cycle, I would experience brain fog or decreased focus. My ability to stay on task would shift, and I had to be even more intentional about managing my diet, stress, and self-care.

My biggest breakthrough came when I went gluten-free at 23. I didn't realize how much my diet was affecting my brain function until I made the switch. Suddenly, I felt clearer, more focused, and less scattered. It was a game-changer. From there, I became more intentional about supporting my brain health through nutrition and stress management.

If you feel like your brain is overwhelmed, start by changing your schedule. Sleep and stress management should be priorities. Shift your life so you're not racing through every moment. It's okay to say, "In two months, I'm going to give myself more space." The world will keep turning without you constantly pushing it.

When it comes to diet, eliminating processed food, artificial ingredients, and especially gluten can make a world of difference. Gluten is strongly linked to brain inflammation, which can worsen ADHD symptoms. Instead of focusing on superfoods like blueberries, start with removing inflammatory foods first.

Finally, hormones play a significant role in how your brain functions. As women, our focus and energy levels can vary throughout our cycles. If you have a big project during your luteal phase (week 4), plan accordingly. Give yourself more space before and after intense tasks. 

ADHD doesn't mean there's something wrong with you; it means you need different tools.

And remember, understanding yourself is a superpower.

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com

One day you wake up and you're 40 and the weight just piles on, even when you "do all the right things." You're not alone. 

As we age, estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol levels shift, which affects your metabolism, fat storage, and overall energy levels. Most of us find that methods that worked in our 30s, or even just five years ago, are no longer effective.

Here's the truth: without looking at your body's hormonal profile, you could be addressing the wrong issue. A DUTCH test, which measures your hormones (estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, cortisol) and neurotransmitter levels, is one of the best ways to understand what's happening inside your body. 

I've seen women spend thousands on trainers, nutritionists, and programs without results because those approaches made assumptions without addressing the actual issues in their bodies. One of my clients was in this exact situation—$12,000 spent and more weight gained. It wasn't until we did a DUTCH test and discovered nutrient deficiencies and severe cortisol dysregulation that she saw real progress.

What worked for her?

• Less exercise (yes, LESS!)

• Eating more than 1200 calories a day

• Targeted supplements based on her test results

It was uncomfortable for her at first because it went against everything she'd been told, but in the end, it made all the difference.

Remember, the key isn't to push harder. It's to work smarter by addressing what your body truly needs.

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com

As the largest organ of our body, our skin doesn't just reflect our inner health—it absorbs everything we expose it to, both the good and the bad. I had a fascinating conversation with Emily Rose, better known as Mama Wilder on social media, where we dug deep into the world of skincare and dangers of toxic chemicals. 

Our skin is like a sponge, soaking up whatever we apply to it. We all know the risks of harmful chemicals like PFAS and toxins, which can easily enter our systems through the skin. 

Parabens, for instance, are often used as preservatives but can mimic hormones and even contribute to early puberty in children. And those seemingly harmless fragrances? They're usually a mix of chemicals that can disrupt your endocrine system.

Emily opened up about her struggles with skin issues, from cystic acne to trying every product under the sun, both natural and pharmaceutical. The biggest improvements came when she started focusing on reducing stress, nourishing her body with minerals, and steering clear of endocrine disruptors.

Red light therapy involves low-level wavelengths of red light that can treat various skin issues, from reducing redness to soothing irritation. While it might be a bit of an investment, the results can be significant, with many users reporting a noticeable improvement in skin tone and texture.

Beyond tech solutions like red light therapy, natural antioxidants like hydroxytyrosol are making waves in skincare. Derived from olives, hydroxytyrosol is a potent antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-aging, and even anti-cancer properties.

Skincare is about consistency. Regular exfoliation, lymphatic drainage, and moisturizing are essential for maintaining healthy, glowing skin. Climate, diet, and stress all play roles in how your skin responds to different products. The key is to find what works for you and stick with it.

If you're feeling overwhelmed by all the options, start with one new product. Focus on what your skin really needs—whether it's hydration, acne treatment, or redness reduction. By simplifying your routine and cutting out unnecessary chemicals, your skin has a better chance to heal and thrive.

Emily "Mama Wilder" is a single mom of two in Western Colorado, a birth educator, health coach and advocate for women's autonomy in the healthcare industry.

Find Emily: 

instagram.com/mama_wilder

I've lost count of how many times someone has labeled me a "witch doctor." 

It's almost a weekly occurrence, and while it used to bother me, now I find it more amusing than anything else. 

The term often comes from a place of misunderstanding, fear, or simply a lack of knowledge about the type of healthcare I practice. But instead of being defensive, I choose to see it as an opportunity to inform.

Let me give you a quick rundown of my credentials:

• I have a doctorate in chiropractic, a discipline grounded in science and focused on the body's musculoskeletal system.

• I'm licensed in acupuncture and Chinese medicine, with a specialization in women's hormones and fertility.

• I'm also trained in functional medicine, a holistic approach that seeks to address the root causes of disease.

• Additionally, I've studied Ayurveda, another ancient system of medicine that complements my understanding of Eastern practices.

My journey into these fields wasn't just about acquiring knowledge; it was about finding solutions that worked for me personally—whether in athletic performance, pregnancy health, or overcoming my own health challenges like mold exposure and PCOS. These practices have made a profound impact on my life, and that's why I'm so passionate about sharing them with others.

There will always be skeptics. 

The real magic in what I do isn't about spells or potions; it's about the time-tested methods of healing that have been around for thousands of years. Practices like acupuncture and chiropractic care are rooted in ancient wisdom and have stood the test of time because they work. And while not everyone will have the same experience, dismissing these methods without trying them or understanding them is, in my view, short-sighted.

I simply ask that you keep an open mind. Look at the research, talk to practitioners, and most importantly, listen to your body. Health is deeply personal, and what works for one person might not work for another. But the beauty of natural healthcare is that it offers a variety of approaches based on individual needs. 

Being called a "witch doctor" is something I've learned to embrace with a smile. It's a reminder of how far we've come—and how far we still have to go—in educating others about the benefits of alternative medicine. 

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com

Menopause is not a death sentence to your fitness and energy.  

Yes, our bodies will be prone to store belly fat and lose muscle tone as we age but you can actually see some pretty amazing results and feel that energy again if you know how to work with your hormones. 

Menopause is marked by a year without a menstrual cycle and your body enters a new phase—big drops in estrogen and progesterone. With that can come a slew of symptoms, night sweats, fatigue, belly fat, mood swings, etc. 

When it comes to exercise specifically, there are some things we can do to support our menopausal bodies. 

Muscle mass is key. It's not just about looking toned; muscle plays a crucial role in your metabolism, immune system, and overall strength and stability. Building and maintaining muscle is more challenging without the estrogen, but it's absolutely possible. 

Focus on: 

• Strength Training: Start with bodyweight exercises or light weights if you're new to strength training. Aim for consistency—three times a week for 30 minutes is a great place to start. Over time, you can increase the frequency and intensity of your workouts.

• Recovery: Your body's recovery rate changes during menopause. It's important to give yourself time to rest and repair between workouts. Avoid the temptation to overdo it; instead, focus on sustainable progress.

• Measuring Progress: Rather than relying on the scale, measure your progress through strength gains and daily activities. Celebrate milestones like carrying groceries with ease or lifting heavier weights over time.

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com

Your first meal of the day sets the tone for your hormones, blood sugar and metabolism. 

First, you should actually be eating breakfast. Eat that breakfast within 30-60 minutes of waking.

Second, base that meal around protein. Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass, especially as we age, and it also helps regulate blood sugar levels and reduces cravings. 

Here are some examples of hormone-friendly breakfasts:

• Protein Shakes: I love Potential Power Nutrition protein powder, which contains 24 grams of protein, 15 grams of carbs, and 3 grams of fat. This shake is easy on the stomach and provides a balanced mix of macros, along with essential vitamins and minerals.

• Eggs and Sausage: If you have a bit more time, a hearty breakfast of eggs and chicken sausage is excellent. Add some fresh fruit and gluten-free oats to round it out.

• Greek Yogurt Smoothie Bowl: Another great option is mixing a protein powder with Greek yogurt and some fruit for a delicious smoothie bowl. This provides a balanced meal with protein, carbs, and healthy fats.

• Eggs and Cottage Cheese: Four eggs, cottage cheese, two pieces of toast, and a side of fruit.

Let's talk about what to avoid. The worst thing you can do for your hormones in the morning is to skip breakfast entirely. Fasting until noon might seem appealing, but you're missing out on taking advantage of your body's peak metabolism. 

I do have specific fasting plans for women, but that's for another conversation. 

Here are some breakfast no's:

• Skipping Breakfast: It throws off your metabolism and can lead to overeating later in the day.

• Just Coffee: If your morning routine consists of only coffee without any other nutrients, you're setting yourself up for a crash. Coffee, especially when consumed without food, can be hard on your digestive system and liver. Always pair it with some protein, healthy fats, or even collagen to help balance things out. It can also impact cortisol, so don't drink on any empty stomach. 

• Processed Sugars Alone: Starting your day with processed sugars like donuts or pastries without any protein or healthy fats can spike your blood sugar and lead to a quick crash. You can have simple carbs, just pair it with a protein and fat. 

Let's connect!

Facebook: https://facebook.com/drbethwestie

Instagram: https://instagram.com/drbethwestie

If you have questions or just want to connect, shoot me a DM on instagram @drbethwestie or contact@drbethwestie.com