Is it REALLY possible to balance hormones? The real answer might surprise you.

I was brain-draining over Instagram and Facebook this weekend, and one thing stood out to me that I felt an overwhelming urge to address.

Since I started working with menopausal women, I've noticed a significant increase in discussions about this topic, which has led to a lot of misinformation. Many influencers—celebrities, coaches, and even some doctors—have joined the conversation. While I believe this dialogue is positive and necessary, it's frustrating to see so many promises made that can't be fulfilled due to the complexities of how women's bodies function. The overselling and under-delivery of these messages are becoming increasingly frustrating.

Every single female born woman will go through menopause, and that is a good thing.  That means you are still alive and breathing. So, you can’t delay it, can’t cure it, or can’t out-exercise it. It is a naturally occurring function of women's bodies.

As female hormones (such as estrogen and progesterone) decrease, various symptoms can arise. This occurs because women need estrogen for reproduction, maintaining strong bones, and ensuring healthy brain function. Yes, there is a lot of science behind this, and that’s not my point here.  The point I’m going to make today is to debunk something I hear from clients, friends, and yes, social media.

My observation, based on my experiences, my client’s experiences, and the educational tools I have at my disposal, has led me to believe that you can’t “naturally” balance hormones. Hormones aren’t meant to be balanced. It’s way more complicated than that. 

The only way to add back in depleting hormones is to replace them with hormones. Estrogen replaces estrogen (or testosterone and progesterone, too).  That is where Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) comes in.  I realize that some women can’t have HRT for medical reasons, or some women may choose to forgo it for other reasons, and that is OK. No judgment from me.  It is a personal decision that women should discuss with their doctors (although that is another topic that I could dig into, maybe next time). HRT doesn’t fix everything, but it does alleviate many symptoms.  For me, my hot flashes went away, my brain fog lifted, and my mood stabilized. The kicker for me was the combination of both HRT and lifestyle changes.

My main point, which I’m finally getting to, is that you should be cautious of anyone who sells a program or product that claims to “balance your hormones naturally.” Every woman is unique and has her own individual blueprint, so there isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution.

Taking HRT or not, it is still my experience that when women make adjustments to support their changing bodies, they can manage symptoms and feel better.  Education, empowerment, nutrition, exercise, and stress management all play a huge role in thriving in menopause.  This is why I named my menopause program Embrace the Shift.         

I’ve been a women’s health and fitness specialist for over 7 years.  I am not medically trained or licensed.  My knowledge comes from my continuing education in the fields of nutrition, Fitness, Health, and Menopause (I have certifications in them all). My experience comes from my journey and the many women I have worked with over the years.

I help women understand the science behind their changing bodies, and together, we find the best tools for managing symptoms, making dietary changes, and learning to exercise more efficiently. In my view, strength training is essential. My goal is to spread the word, do the work, and engage as many women as possible, helping them navigate their menopause transition with real talk, real effort, and real results.

Warmly,

Bonnie