Breast Intentions
Breast Intentions is a podcast for women navigating midlife, hormones, and menopause, where we take off the bra of expectations one episode at a time.
Hosted by Nadine Dumas and Cynthia Rowe, two Canadians living island life, the podcast features honest conversations and expert insight into the changes no one warned us about so you can decide what feels right for you.
Breast Intentions
Menopause, Brain Health & Alzheimer's Risk With Dr. Ryan Punambolam
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Episode Summary
In this episode, Dr. Ryan, a neurologist, shares his journey into the field of neurology and discusses the significant impact of hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause on women's brain health. He emphasizes that these transitions are not just reproductive changes but also neurological ones, affecting cognitive functions such as memory, attention, and mood. Dr. Ryan explains the physiological mechanisms behind these changes, including the role of estrogen receptors in the brain and how their decline can lead to symptoms like brain fog and irritability. He also highlights the importance of recognizing these symptoms as common but not normal, urging women to seek help if they feel their cognitive health is declining.
The conversation delves into practical advice for women in midlife, including the importance of lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise, and sleep in maintaining brain health. Dr. Ryan advocates for a holistic approach to treatment, which may include hormone replacement therapy (HRT) but emphasizes that it should be tailored to individual needs. He also discusses the rising risk of Alzheimer's disease among women and the importance of early intervention and preventive measures. Overall, the episode aims to empower women to take charge of their brain health during this critical life stage.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ryan and His Journey
05:11 Understanding Perimenopause and Menopause
11:26 The Physiological Changes in the Brain
19:33 Hormone Replacement Therapy: Pros and Cons
23:47 Mood Disorders and Their Neurological Basis
27:12 The Importance of Awareness in Women's Brain Health
31:43 Systemic Issues in Women's Healthcare
33:28 The Role of Supplements in Brain Health
37:50 Hormonal Influences on Cognitive Function
43:04 Preventing Alzheimer's: Lifestyle Changes
51:35 Empowering Women for Better Brain Health
55:23 The Future of Women's Neurology
Disclaimer
Breast Intentions is intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. The content shared on this podcast is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Any views or opinions expressed by the hosts and guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect the views of any affiliated organizations. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for medical advice or concerns.
Resources & Mentions:
• Get in touch with Dr Ryan https://www.doctorshospital.ky/physicians/dr-ryan-punambolam/ and him on Instagram (@braindoccayman & @dhcayman)
• Follow us on Instagram and Facebook (@breastintentionspodcast )
Connect With Us: Have a topic or guest suggestion? Email us at breastintentionspodcast@gmail.com