Navigating the complexities of the menopausal transition requires more than a 'one-size-fits-all' approach. With 85% of women experiencing symptoms like vasomotor episodes, insomnia, and weight gain, clinicians often find traditional Hormone Replacement Therapy or SSRIs provide only partial relief or, in some cases, exacerbate the underlying issues.
Dr Penny Kendall-Reed, a leading expert in nutrigenetics, details how to move beyond symptom management by leveraging genetic insights. In this presentation, she reveals why a decline in oestrogen is only one part of the story. You will discover how the HPA axis, Neurokinin B pathways, and specific genetic SNPs (Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms) dictate a patient’s unique physiological response to menopause.
By understanding a patient’s genetic 'roadmap', you can determine if HRT is a safe and effective option or if a targeted nutraceutical approach is required to resolve symptoms and prevent long-term risks like cardiovascular disease and breast cancer.
Dr Kendall-Reed details three insightful case studies that demonstrate how genetic testing transforms clinical outcomes:
- Case Study (Weight Loss): A patient who gained 3.2 kg despite a restricted diet lost 8.2 kg in two months by addressing her stress genes and metabolic SNPs.
- Case Study (Hot Flushes): Resolving severe nighttime flashes within 10 days by resetting the HPA axis rather than increasing oestrogen doses.
- Case Study (Safety): Determining when HRT is strictly contraindicated based on a patient's inability to convert oestrogen into the protective 2-OH form.
