
The Women's Hormone Masterclass with Dr. Kyle Gillett: A Deep Dive Into Testosterone, Dutasteride, SHBG, & Menopause Weight Gain
Dr. Kyle Gillett enjoys providing holistic individualized care to his patients. His practice includes preventative medicine, aesthetics, sports medicine, hormone optimization, obstetrics and infertility, integrative medicine, and precision medicine including genomics. He believes that each human is a unique creation that requires attention to their body, mind, and soul. He uses shared decision-making and an evidence-based approach. He firmly believes "food is medicine" and "exercise is medicine". Dr. Gillett describes the "7 pillars of health": exercise, diet, sleep, stress, social, sunlight, and spirit. These are more powerful than any medication or supplement. He enjoys spending time outdoors on the farm with his wife, two sons, and two wolfhounds.Along with Dr. Gillett, we're examining the complex world of women's hormones today. We'll be focusing on androgens like testosterone, DHEA, and dihydrotestosterone, and their profound impact on female health. Dr. Gillett provides insights on the role of binding globulins, hormone replacement therapy, and the interplay between insulin and androgens. We also discuss the challenges of menopausal weight gain, the benefits of GLP-1 medications for weight loss, and practical strategies anyone can use for maintaining lean body mass.
In this episode we discuss:
- How androgens such as testosterone, DHEA, and dihydrotestosterone affect women's well-being.
- Why sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG) is critical for hormone dynamics and stability.
- Understanding the impact of thyroid binding globulin and cortisol binding globulin on hormone balance.
- How hormone replacement therapy (HRT) influences women's bodies, especially regarding androgens.
- Managing testosterone replacement therapy to avoid virilization symptoms like facial hair and voice changes.
- The role of DHT blockers in managing androgen-related conditions.
- How SHBG can be harnessed for overall hormone stability and health benefits.
- Challenges of menopausal weight gain and how hormonal changes affect body composition.
- Why integrating proper lifestyle habits is essential alongside GLP-1 medications for effective weight loss.
- How to maintain lean body mass through hormone therapy and lifestyle changes.
- How oral contraceptives and other synthetic hormones impact SHBG levels and overall hormone balance.
- The significance of SHBG levels for individuals on hormone replacement therapy or contraceptives.
- Exploring different forms of testosterone administration, including subcutaneous and intramuscular injections.
- How estrogen and progesterone influence testosterone levels through negative feedback inhibition.
- How poor sleep quality and hormonal changes contribute to menopausal weight gain.
- The paradoxical effects of hormone replacement therapy on body composition and fat gain.
- Why high SHBG must be paired with adequate hormone levels to avoid feeling unwell.
- Discussing the challenges faced when SHBG levels are artificially high due to medication.
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Find Karen Martel on Apply Podcast
Karen Martel is a Certified Hormone Specialist and Transformational Nutrition Coach dedicated to empowering women through their health journeys.
As the host of the popular podcast The Hormone Solution, Karen tackles the complexities of hormonal health, weight loss resistance, and the challenges that come with perimenopause and menopause.
Her mission is to disrupt outdated narratives surrounding women's health, providing reliable information and practical solutions that help women reclaim their vitality. With personal experience overcoming her own health struggles, Karen offers insights into hormone optimization and sustainable weight management strategies.
Join her as she engages in enlightening conversations with experts and shares actionable advice, all aimed at helping women navigate their unique hormonal landscapes with confidence and clarity. Tune in to discover how to embrace life's stages while enhancing overall well-being.