In this episode of the Hotflash inc Podcast, Ann Marie McQueen speaks with Dr Nicky Keay, a medical doctor specializing in exercise endocrinology. With a career dedicated to understanding how lifestyle, nutrition, and movement impact hormones, Dr. Keay brings a unique perspective to perimenopause, menopause, and female hormone health.
Dr Keay is the author of Hormones, Health, and Human Potential and editor of the anthology Myths of Menopause. She also serves as an Honorary Clinical Lecturer at University College London and is a medical advisor to the Scottish Ballet.
We dive into:
- The "hormone orchestra" analogy and why balancing all hormones – not just estrogen – is key to long-term health.
- Why perimenopause is like The Odyssey, filled with challenges but also opportunities for growth.
- The myths of menopause, including how social media sirens influence women’s decisions. (She explains)
- How exercise, nutrition, and sleep impact hormonal balance during perimenopause and menopause.
- Why testosterone is not a magic bullet, and how to know if you truly need it.
- The importance of progesterone, even for women who have had hysterectomies.
- The best way to approach HRT, why "low and slow" dosing matters, and how lifestyle plays a critical role.
Dr Keay also discusses:
- The relationship between mindset and hormones—and how your thoughts can actually influence your hormonal health.
- Why women should embrace their hormones, rather than fear them.
- How relative energy deficiency in sport (REDs) impacts women’s hormone networks.
- The importance of movement and strength training in midlife and beyond.
This is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to better understand their hormones and take control of their health – without falling for myths, quick fixes, or social media hype.
Key highlights from this episode:
- Understanding the hormonal orchestra – and why balance is key.
- How perimenopause is like the teenage years – but in reverse.
- Why mindset matters – your thoughts can literally impact your hormone levels.
- The best exercise approaches for hormonal health at different life stages.
- The truth about testosterone – who really needs it?
- Why HRT should be personalized – and the problem with "one-size-fits-all" hormone prescriptions.
- The progesterone debate – why it’s necessary even after a hysterectomy.
- How to navigate menopause like the goddess Athena – wise, informed, and empowered.
Thank you to our sponsor Timeline Nutrition
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The Hotflash inc Podcast has been selected by Feedspot as one of the Top 60 Menopause Podcasts on the web.
Connect with Dr Nicky Keay:
Website: www.nickykeayfitness.com
Instagram: @drnickykeay
Twitter: @drnickykeay
Books: Hormones, Health, and Human Potential and Myths of Menopause (Editor)
Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more.
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"Your hormones aren’t your enemy – they are your greatest tool for health and vitality. Learn to harness them, not fear them." Dr Nicky Keay
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