What menopause really does to your brain, heart, gut, bones and skin – with Professor Mary Ryan

Hormones affect far more than fertility and menopause – they play a vital role in everything from heart and brain health to strong bones and a balanced gut. Professor of endocrinology Mary Ryan joins Liz to explain why looking after our hormones means taking greater control of our everyday health.

They discuss how declining oestrogen during perimenopause and menopause can impact our entire body as we age, and why midlife is a significant time to take stock.

Mary also shares ways to support our hormonal system through diet, exercise, sleep and stress management and talks about the importance of clearing oestrogen from the body.

In this episode:

· Why the pituitary gland is hormone HQ

· The importance of balancing blood sugar for our cortisol levels

· How HRT can protect bone health

· The link between declining oestrogen and high blood pressure

· Why our hormonal system needs to be recharged like a phone

· Eating more fibre to produce happy hormones

· The risks associated with plastics and other endocrine disruptors

· How healthy bowel movements help remove excess oestrogen from the body