Metformin, also known as Glucophage, is an affordable and effective option for women in perimenopause or menopause who aren’t eligible for GLP-1 medications but still want to manage weight and support healthy aging. This well-studied drug enhances insulin sensitivity and can stabilize blood sugar levels, potentially reducing stubborn midsection fat. Some women also report better bowel regularity, which can be a welcome relief during hormone fluctuations. One patient, Cassandra, lost eight pounds of body fat over six months without major changes to her lifestyle. Metformin’s decades of data and accessibility make it a compelling choice for those seeking a steady, evidence-based approach to weight control and vitality.

Menopause marks a season of significant change that may impact your body, mood, and relationships—particularly when it comes to intimacy and sexual wellness. Learn how shifting hormone levels, including declines in estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone, can affect your libido, vaginal comfort, and emotional state. Understand how to find balance through medical options like localized or systemic hormone therapy, along with practical steps such as pelvic floor exercises and thoughtful communication. While menopause can bring challenges—like dryness, pain, or lower desire—it can also introduce a newfound sense of freedom once fertility concerns fade.

This blog offers practical guidance and personal reflections on working with an exercise trainer during the physical shifts of perimenopause. It explains why strength training matters at this stage, not only to maintain muscle and manage changes in body composition, but also to support bone health and help prevent osteoporosis. Readers will find straightforward discussions on technique, form, and how a trained professional can provide steady support, accountability, and tailored programs to keep them progressing safely.

Perimenopause's hormonal shifts can disrupt leptin signaling, creating a disconnect between our fat cells and brain. This leptin resistance often results in difficulty feeling full and increased stress eating, especially after demanding days.The interplay between leptin resistance and perimenopausal metabolic changes creates a complex scenario affecting weight, energy, and overall well-being. However, there are effective strategies to improve leptin sensitivity

As hormones shift, maintaining muscle mass becomes more challenging, and you might notice unexpected changes in your body Increasing protein not only supports muscle maintenance but also aids in managing weight by promoting fullness and boosting metabolism.

Perimenopause can feel like an unpredictable journey filled with hot flashes, mood swings, and sleepless nights. Embracing the concept of "food as medicine," we can find comfort in the simple ritual of sipping healing teas. In my latest blog, I delve into how teas like red clover, sage, and chamomile offer not just warmth but potential relief from perimenopausal symptoms. These natural remedies have been cherished for their soothing properties—red clover may help balance hormones, sage could reduce night sweats, and chamomile might ease sleep disturbances. By integrating these teas into our daily routines, we create moments of mindfulness and self-care, nurturing ourselves from the inside out. Remember, it's important to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing new herbal teas, especially those affecting hormone levels. Here's to finding tranquility and support in each comforting cup as we navigate this significant life transition together.

Menopause brings significant changes, and understanding your body's needs is crucial during this time. This blog explains VO₂ max—a key indicator of cardiovascular fitness—and its importance for women in perimenopause and menopause. It offers practical advice on improving VO₂ max through exercises like High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT) and hill training, tailored to support your health and well-being during this transition.

Understand the intersection of endometriosis and perimenopause, focusing on traditional versus functional medicine approaches for diagnosis and treatment. Combining both approaches offers women an integrative path to managing endometriosis and hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause.

At Bonza Health, we believe menopause offers an opportunity to set the stage for a vibrant, healthy future. This blog highlights the importance of addressing the cardiovascular risks, body composition changes, and increased risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease that come with declining estrogen levels.

Are you experiencing chronic fatigue during perimenopause and wondering if there's more to it than just hormonal changes? Our latest blog explains the critical role of cortisol and thyroid testing in uncovering hidden imbalances that could be affecting your energy levels. Learn how comprehensive assessments like the DUTCH Cortisol Awakening Response test and detailed thyroid studies can help you reclaim your vitality. Discover targeted strategies to manage fatigue and improve your overall well-being.

The Bonza Health Better Cycle offers a comprehensive approach to managing perimenopause, addressing physical symptoms, mental well-being, and lifestyle changes. The program begins by alleviating immediate symptoms through medical evaluation, hormone therapy, and targeted supplements. It then focuses on shifting mindset and managing stress through wellness coaching and mindfulness practices. Finally, it implements sustainable lifestyle changes, including personalized exercise plans, improved sleep hygiene, and nutritional guidance, all supported by continuous monitoring and telemedicine support.

Discover the ten crucial aspects of perimenopause and hormone changes that many doctors overlook, from the extended duration of symptoms to the importance of natural hormone cycles for bone health. This comprehensive blog sheds light on essential topics like the impact of low ferritin levels, the differences between natural progesterone and synthetic progestins, and the nuanced relationship between estrogen and breast cancer. Empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your health journey today!

Dr. Bonza will guide you through the crucial role your gut microbiome and estrobolome play in your health during perimenopause. You'll learn about the complex world of microorganisms that reside in your digestive tract and their profound impact on everything from your hormone balance to mood, weight, and overall well-being. Discover how these tiny bacteria can have a big impact on managing symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain. We'll delve into practical tips for nurturing your gut microbiome through diet, lifestyle changes, and targeted supplements to help you feel more balanced and vibrant during perimenopause.