Autoimmunity in Women: Hormonal Shifts During Perimenopause and Menopause

In this episode, Dr. Sara Szal (formerly Gottfried) discusses the rising rates of autoimmunity, particularly among women, and the importance of understanding anti-nuclear antibody (ANA) testing. She emphasizes the need to explore root causes of autoimmunity, including genetic predisposition, leaky gut, and environmental triggers.   

Dr. Szal and Dr. Smeaton also explore: 

• Foundational approaches to managing autoimmune conditions  
• The connection between reproductive hormones and autoimmune diseases 
• The influence of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, and how these changes affect various bodily systems  
• The importance of diet and technology, such as continuous glucose monitors, in managing health during these transitions 
• The role of different testing methods in understanding hormonal balance  

Show Notes:
Learn more about Dr. Sara Szal and her new book, The Autoimmune Cure, and follow Dr. Szal on Instagram @saragottfriedmd.  

Become a DUTCH Provider and learn more about how to use comprehensive hormone testing in your practice. 

Chapters

• 0:00 Introduction to Autoimmunity and Women's Health
• 2:50 Understanding ANA Testing and Its Implications
• 7:09 Root Causes of Autoimmunity
• 10:54 Foundational Approaches to Autoimmune Care
• 15:45 Addressing Trauma in Autoimmune Patients
• 23:23 he Role of the Microbiome in Autoimmunity
• 27:39 Hormonal Influences on Autoimmune Conditions
• 28:07 Understanding Hormonal Transitions in Women
• 30:33 The Role of Diet and Technology in Managing Health
• 33:03 Mitochondrial Health and Its Impact on Women
• 36:05 Testing Methods: Serum vs. Dried Urine