On Air with Ella - podcast episode 373 - rebroadcast
Neither Dr. McClain nor Ella is giving you medical advice - please talk to your own practitioner(s).
In this episode:
Hormone replacement therapy for both men and women
Explore the benefits of heat and cold immersion / cryotherapy
Is there truly a risk correlation between Bio-identical Hormone Replacement Therapy and certain cancers?
How testosterone can reshape body composition and boost athleticism
The significance of nitric oxide, the "blood flow molecule," in augmenting blood flow and enhancing performance
We're all going to see our hormones decline, whether you choose to do something about it or not is up to you. - Dr. Rand McClain
Hormone Replacement Therapy + Longevity
Are you curious about how hormone replacement therapy could impact your vitality, athleticism, and overall well-being? We've got answers from Dr. Rand McClain, a renowned specialist in sports and regenerative medicine. Dr. McClain's profound understanding of hormone optimization provides insights into the benefits and considerations of hormone replacement therapy for both men and women. He takes us through a detailed explanation of how this therapy can help us reclaim our energy, optimal body composition and overall vitality.
We discuss:
What are the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women?
How does hormone replacement therapy impact energy, libido, and overall wellbeing?
What is the typical starting dose for men and women undergoing testosterone therapy?
How effective are pellets as a delivery method for testosterone?
What is the role of nitric oxide how can its production be naturally enhanced?
LINKS & RESOURCES MENTIONED
Tools and Techniques
Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: 00:02:03
Infrared Sauna: 00:09:35
Cryotherapy: 00:08:09
Ice Maker (for home cryotherapy): 00:13:24
DIM (Diindolylmethane): 00:21:12
Indole-3-Carbinol: 00:21:12
Fish Oil: 00:24:11
Saw Palmetto: 00:27:17
PDE5 Inhibitors (e.g., Viagra, Cialis, Levitra): 00:35:28
Books
Cheating Death by Rand McClain
Dr. Nathan Bryan - Nitric Oxide Expert
📝 EPISODE SUMMARY
1. What are the benefits of bioidentical hormone replacement therapy for both men and women?
Bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) is a type of therapy that involves the use of hormones identical to those produced naturally in the body. One of the primary benefits is that they can address various hormonal imbalances, which can significantly impact the quality of life. For instance, in males, a decrease in testosterone levels can lead to issues such as diminished energy, a lower sex drive, and a decreased sense of well-being.
On the other hand, females suffering from menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness can also benefit from BHRT. Thus, by ensuring that hormone levels are well-balanced, this treatment can potentially bring about notable improvements to both physical and mental health. From Dr. Rand McClain's perspective, BHRT has definite advantages for both men and women. He emphasizes that the determination for BHRT isn't solely dependent on the age or comparative hormone levels of a person, but more importantly, on their symptoms.
For instance, testosterone is commonly used to address issues related to decreased energy, libido, and a sense of well-being for men. Similarly, Dr. McClain suggests that each case is unique and requires personalized treatment plans. Furthermore, he highlighted the paramount importance of evaluating symptoms rather than relying solely on hormone levels. This approach ensures that treatment is tailor-made to each individual's needs, making it significantly more effective. The benefits of BHRT aren't only limited to physical well-being but extend to mental health, as well. Hormonal imbalances can lead to mood swings, depression, and anxiety, which BHRT can greatly help alleviate.
Apart from aiding in the relief of these symptoms, BHRT can also contribute to improving the quality of life for individuals undergoing the treatment. This is because hormones play a crucial role in the regulation of everything from sleep cycles and mood to energy levels and metabolism. By ensuring that these hormones are in balance, individuals can potentially notice an improvement in overall mood and energy, directly contributing to more fulfilling personal and professional lives. This indicates the relevance and necessity of such a therapy in today's times, given the increasing prevalence of hormonal imbalances and related health issues.
2. How does hormone replacement therapy impact energy, libido, and overall wellbeing?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a fascinating area of medicine that targets the body's hormonal imbalances to optimize overall health. As we age, our bodies start producing less of the vital hormones that maintain our energy, libido, and overall wellbeing. This is where HRT comes in - it's like giving your body a 'top-up' of what's missing. Whether it's testosterone in men, or progesterone and estrogen in women, HRT aims to bring these hormones back to optimal levels. This process can have substantial impacts. Testosterone, for example, plays a substantial role in maintaining energy levels, libido, and even psychological well-being in both men and women.
According to Dr. Rand, bioidentical hormone replacement therapy is not just about looking at an individual's age or comparing their hormone levels with their peer group. It's about addressing the symptoms that come with hormonal decline. For instance, when testosterone levels decrease, both men and women can experience a reduction in energy, libido, and overall sense of well-being. Athletes, in particular, may see a significant change in their body composition, athleticism, and energy levels.
The relevance and importance of HRT go beyond merely addressing signs of aging. As we strive to live longer and healthier lives, understanding how hormones work within our bodies and how we can manage these levels in a safe, effective manner becomes crucial. This understanding can help us maintain our physical health and mental acuity, and perhaps most importantly, keep us feeling like ourselves.
Of course, this process involves everyday lifestyle choices that contribute to hormone balance, too, such as maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, ensuring quality sleep, and even considering treatments like HRT. Remember, it's all about taking an individualized approach to your health and well-being.
"Testosterone is nature's antidepressant."
3. What is the typical starting dose for men and women undergoing testosterone therapy?
Testosterone therapy, as discussed in our conversation with Dr. Rand McClain, varies in starting doses for men and women. This differentiation is made based on the biological differences between the two genders. Both genders have testosterone - however naturally, men have it in higher amounts than women. This fundamental truth is reflected in the administration of hormone replacement therapy where the aim is to restore the balance and improve the overall well-being of the individual. This raises the question of what the typical starting dose for testosterone therapy is for men and women?
In our discussion with Dr. Rand McClain, he explains how the typical starting doses for testosterone therapy are arrived upon. Interestingly, he points out that men usually respond more effectively to weekly injections, whereas women have the option to choose between injections or daily usage of a cream or gel.
4. How effective are pellets as a delivery method for testosterone?
Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone but it's certainly not exclusive to men. It plays a crucial role in maintaining health, particularly muscle mass, bone density, and sexual function for both genders. Since it naturally declines with age, and sometimes due to certain medical conditions, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) offers a way to restore optimal levels. There are various delivery methods for HRT, one of which includes testosterone pellets. Pellets are inserted under the skin and release testosterone over time. This method is appreciated for its convenience as it reduces the frequency of treatments compared to injections or creams which are daily or weekly.
Dr. Rand McClain offers an insightful perspective on the use of pellets as a delivery method for testosterone during our conversation. He unveiled the fact that its effectiveness often depends on the individual's physical activity level and expectations. While the convenience of having a steady release of hormone over a particular period (usually 3-6 months) without daily or weekly doses draws some in, it may not satisfy everyone. For instance, those who are more active or goal-driven might find the release rate unsatisfactory. Dr. McClain's perspective sheds light on the importance of considering individual circumstances when choosing a mode of delivery for HRT. The type of delivery method chosen can greatly influence the results of the therapy. The significance of individual expectations and lifestyle further exemplify that there's no one-size-fits-all solution in medicine. What works ideally for one person might not yield the same benefits for another. Recognizing this can help in crafting a personalized approach to hormone replacement therapy and in ensuring the best possible outcome.
5. What is the role of nitric oxide and how can its production be naturally enhanced?
Nitric oxide is the blood flow molecule - acting as a crucial signaling molecule in our body and playing a prominent role in various physiological processes. Produced naturally, nitric oxide assists in the regulation of blood flow by dilating blood vessels, thus improving the delivery of oxygen and nutrients to our cells. Maintaining a healthy level of nitric oxide provides various health benefits, such as improved cardiac health and enhanced cognitive function. By boosting nitric oxide production through natural means, such as nutritional intake and regular physical movement, we can improve performance while at the same time contributing to our overall health and well-being.
Dr. Rand McClain reaffirms the crucial role of hormone replacement therapy in addressing issues related to energy levels, libido, and general well-being. It's critical to remember that everyone's journey with hormone replacement therapy is unique, and what works for one person may not necessarily work for another. Having a clear understanding of hormone replacement therapy will empower you to take charge of your health.
About Dr. Rand McClain
From being the youngest senior account manager in Deloitte’s history, to his stint as a professional boxer in Argentina, to being accepted to medical school at age 37 after being repeatedly told it was impossible, Dr. Rand has never been a fan of the “status quo”.
Dr. Rand’s patients come to his Regenerative and Sports Medicine practice in Southern California in search of the innovative treatments he specializes in. From bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT), hyperbaric oxygen therapy to cryotherapy, Dr. Rand has dedicated the past 35 years to redefining what it means to be in optimal health.
Check out Dr. Rand McClain's book Cheating Death for more information on restoration and longevity.
IG: @drrandmcclain
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xxoo Ella
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