In this podcast episode, the host welcomed Dr. Amy Killen, a renowned physician specializing in longevity and regenerative medicine. Dr. Killen, co-founder and Chief Medical Officer of Human Health in Austin, Texas, and founder of the Human Optimization Project (HOP) supplement line, shared her extensive knowledge on women's hormonal health, particularly as they age. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, providing valuable insights and actionable advice for women looking to optimize their hormonal health and longevity.
Dr. Killen emphasized that many women mistakenly believe they should only consider hormonal health when they reach menopause. However, hormonal changes can begin as early as age 35. Symptoms such as sleep disturbances, anxiety, mood changes, brain fog, and weight gain can indicate the onset of hormonal decline.
Dr. Killen advocates for progesterone supplementation, which she finds to be safe, effective, and inexpensive. She often recommends it for women experiencing PMS symptoms or irregular periods, as it can help regulate cycles and alleviate symptoms.
Testosterone replacement therapy, when done correctly, poses minimal risks for women. Dr. Killen prefers methods such as creams or injections over pellets, as they allow for more precise dosing.
Estrogen replacement therapy has been surrounded by controversy since the Women's Health Initiative study in 2002 raised concerns about its safety. Dr. Killen clarifies that when used appropriately, estrogen can actually reduce the risk of breast cancer by 29% when taken alone, without synthetic progestins. She emphasizes the importance of educating women about the benefits of HRT and dispelling the myths that have led to a significant decline in its use.
Dr. Killen highlighted that many women still believe that estrogen therapy causes breast cancer, which is not true. Numerous studies, including a recent meta-analysis involving ten randomized controlled trials, show that estrogen therapy actually decreases breast cancer risk by 23%.
Starting hormone replacement therapy (HRT) within about six years of menopause onset can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease by 30% to 50%. Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women, yet many women are not sufficiently aware of this risk.
Dr. Killen suggests that women start paying attention to their symptoms around ages 40 to 45. Hormone levels fluctuate significantly during perimenopause, making it challenging to check estrogen and progesterone levels accurately. However, checking other hormones like testosterone, thyroid hormones, and insulin can be relevant.
Libido can be complex, even with optimal hormone levels. Factors such as long-term relationships, chronic medical issues, stress, or fatigue can affect libido. Dr. Killen recommends prioritizing intimacy and exploring new options like the FDA-approved peptide VLSI, which enhances desire and arousal by acting on the brain.
Starting estrogen therapy within six or seven years of menopause can reduce mortality rates by 30% to 40% in women. Testosterone also plays a role in longevity, especially as we age and lose muscle mass.
Dr. Killen is a big fan of bioidentical hormones, regardless of their source. She believes that most compounding pharmacies produce high-quality products, and the FDA-approved versions are also reliable.
Using a very low dose of topical estrogen, like 0.1% estradiol or 0.3% triest, applied directly to the face can be effective for reducing wrinkles and improving skin hydration without systemic effects.
Addressing adrenal health can help improve natural DHEA production rather than relying solely on supplementation. Supporting adrenal function is a much better approach for overall hormonal balance.
Dr. Amy Killen's insights on women's hormonal health and longevity provide a comprehensive guide for women looking to optimize their health as they age. By understanding the roles of key hormones, addressing misconceptions, and following practical tips, women can take proactive steps towards better hormonal health and enhanced quality of life.
For more information and to connect with Dr. Amy Killen, you can find her on Instagram and Facebook at @doctoramybkillen, or visit her websites at doctoramykillen.com and hopabox.com. Additionally, if you're in Austin, Texas, be sure to check out her clinic, Human Health.
This blog post aims to provide a detailed and actionable guide based on the podcast episode, offering valuable insights and expert advice on women's hormonal health and longevity.
