The Functional Medicine Approach to Menopause Management

In this eye-opening episode, I sit down with Dr. Felice Gersh, one of the foremost voices in functional medicine and women’s health, to tackle one of the most misunderstood phases of life—menopause. Together, we unpack the real physiological changes women face during this transition, and the often-overlooked health risks that come with it. This isn’t just about “hot flashes”—we’re talking sleep disruption, cardiovascular risk, insulin resistance, and the metabolic shifts that can alter a woman’s long-term health trajectory. Dr. Gersh pulls back the curtain on estradiol, reframing it as a life hormone—not simply a “sex hormone.” We explore why its decline affects nearly every system in the body, and how lifestyle strategies, functional medicine insights, and targeted interventions can help women not just survive menopause, but thrive through it. Whether you’re in the midst of this change or helping patients navigate it, this conversation delivers the clarity, science, and hope you need to take control of health during this critical stage of life.Key Takeaways: Hormonal Shift: Menopause leads to a decline in estradiol produced by ovaries, affecting every organ system and increasing health condition risks, including cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders. Holistic Understanding: Dr. Gersh advocates for a comprehensive understanding of hormones in menopause, emphasizing the necessity of a proactive rather than reactive treatment approach. Testing and Diagnosis: She outlines important blood tests and diagnostic markers, such as day 3 FSH, thyroid function, inflammatory markers, and lipid profiles to better navigate menopause management. Lifestyle Interventions: Key lifestyle changes, including diet rich in plants, exercise, and stress management, are essential in promoting well-being during and beyond menopause. Functional Medicine Approach: Understanding the interconnectedness of bodily systems and the foundational role of lifestyle and hormonal therapy in women's health is crucial. More About Dr. Felice Gersh: Felice Gersh, M.D. is a multi-award winning physician with dual board certifications in OB-GYN and Integrative Medicine. She is the founder and director of the Integrative Medical Group of Irvine, a practice that provides comprehensive health care for women by combining the best evidence-based therapies from conventional, naturopathic, and holistic medicine. For 12 years, she taught obstetrics and gynecology at Keck USC School of Medicine as an Assistant Clinical Professor, and she now serves as an Affiliate Faculty Member at the Fellowship in Integrative Medicine through the University of Arizona School of Medicine. Felice is a prolific writer and lecturer who speaks globally on women’s health and regularly publishes in peer-reviewed medical journals. She is the bestselling author of the PCOS SOS series and her latest book, Menopause: 50 Things You Need to Know. Her research focuses on women's hormones, metabolism, aging, and menopause. Whether she’s mentoring medical students, writing groundbreaking books and medical articles, or guiding her patients, Dr. Gersh’s mission remains constant: Empower women to thrive in harmony with their bodies and their health. Website Instagram Facebook Connect with me! Website Instagram Facebook YouTube This episode is sponsored by Professional Co-op®, where clinicians gain exceptional access to industry-leading lab services without the hefty price tag—since 2001, they’ve been redefining what efficient, patient-focused support looks like. Imagine no hidden fees, no minimums, and only paying for completed tests. Experience lab services that not only meet but also exceed your expectations. Join the co-op trusted by countless licensed clinicians nationwide. Visit www.professionalco-op.com to learn more! This episode is also made possible by Functional Medicine University. FMU is a fully online, self-paced training program in functional medicine, founded in 2006 by Dr. Ron Grisanti. With students in all 50 U.S. states and 68 countries globally, FMU has become a cornerstone in advanced clinical education for healthcare practitioners. The curriculum is led by Dr. Grisanti, alongside contributions from over 70 distinguished medical experts on FMU’s advisory board. Graduates earn the prestigious Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner (CFMP®) credential upon completion. FMU is also a nationally approved provider of continuing education for a wide range of licensed professionals, including MDs, DCs, DOs, NDs, acupuncturists, PAs, NPs, nurses, dietitians, pharmacists, and dentists. Whether you're looking to expand your clinical knowledge or bring a functional approach to your practice, FMU offers the tools, guidance, and certification to help you thrive. Visit www.functionalmedicineuniversity.com to learn more!