"The Menopause Menu" with Susan Baumgaertel MD
Introduction:
For this podcast episode, Dr Susan Baumgaertel and I celebrated the launch of her new book, "The Menopause Menu." She described it as an experiential guide to Menopause that weaves scientific knowledge, complementary approaches, and delicious recipes to help women navigate the complexities of menopause. Our conversation delved into the inspiration behind the book, its unique structure, and the collaborative spirit that is sure to secure its success.
Our discussion
1. Science explained:
- Dr. Susan emphasised the importance of combining evidence-based medical approaches with holistic and complementary approaches.
- This book aims to provide women with a comprehensive resource that is simple, accessible and avoids the pitfalls of either oversimplification or confusing her readers with jargon.
2. Chapters
- "The Menopause Menu" comprises 16 chapters, each focusing on a common menopausal symptom.
- The topics covered include hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, libido changes, mental health, chronic illnesses, and more.
3. The Culinary Connection:
- Each chapter is organised under headings that you might find in an up-market restaurant menu and packed with anecdotes, poems, activities and evidence-based self-help suggestions.
- The recipes are carefully chosen to support specific symptoms, making the book a holistic guide that includes dietary recommendations.
4. Collaborative Insights:
- The book incorporates contributions from various experts, including poems, haikus, quotes, and insights from colleagues and ordinary women like me and you.
5. Menopause Bingo:
Try your hand at Dr B's "Menopause Bingo", it's a light-hearted way for women to identify the common symptoms of Menopause.
6. Addressing Mental Health:
- Dr Susan recognizes the often-overlooked mental health component of menopause and emphasises the importance of normalising the emotional aspects of this life stage.
7. A Whole System Approach:
- We discuss the challenges of navigating menopausal symptoms when they impact multiple bodily systems simultaneously.
- This book supports an integrated approach to health, acknowledging the interconnectedness of physical and mental well-being.
Conclusion:
"The Menopause Menu" is a valuable resource that combines medical expertise, collaborative insights, and culinary delights to empower women on their menopausal journey.
Dr Susan Baumgaertel's passion for Menopause care shines through and this book offers women a supportive and informative guide to mastering the menopause transition.
My Thanks to:
Purchase your copy of The Menopause Menu here
Pilates for Menopause
if moving more is on your list of things to do. Checkout my online Pilates for Menopause group programme
Disclaimer: Please note that any advice we provide in this podcast is for information only, and if you are unsure of its suitability for your specific circumstances, you should consult your medical practitioner if you have any specific health concerns.
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