Podcast Summary: Habits and Hustle - Episode 444: The GLP-1 Triple Threat: Maximizing Benefits with Hormones, Strength Training, and Proper Dosing

Hosts: Jen Cohen and Dr. Tina Moore
Release Date: April 25, 2025

In Episode 444 of the Habits and Hustle podcast titled "The GLP-1 Triple Threat: Maximizing Benefits with Hormones, Strength Training, and Proper Dosing," host Jen Cohen engages in an in-depth conversation with Dr. Tina Moore, an expert in holistic regenerative medicine. This episode delves into the multifaceted role of GLP-1 medications, their integration with hormone replacement therapy (HRT), and the essential practice of strength training to optimize health outcomes, particularly for individuals navigating perimenopause and menopause.

Understanding GLP-1 Medications: Beyond Weight Loss

Dr. Moore begins by addressing the common perception of GLP-1s as mere weight loss tools, emphasizing their broader physiological impacts. She highlights that these medications contribute to neuroplasticity, fostering new neural pathways that aid in behavioral changes related to appetite suppression.

Dr. Moore [00:45]: "There is a neuroplasticity that occurs on the GLP1s, meaning your brain is wiring new pathways and learning new behaviors and hardwiring it in."

The discussion underscores the polarizing conversation surrounding GLP-1s and their potential benefits that may not be widely recognized by regulatory bodies like the FDA.

Maximizing GLP-1 Benefits with Lifestyle Changes

Both hosts explore strategies to enhance the efficacy of GLP-1 medications. Dr. Moore advocates for combining these medications with lifestyle interventions such as strength training and proper protein intake. She warns against the risks of high-dose GLP-1 usage without accompanying physical activity, citing potential muscle loss.

Dr. Moore [03:48]: "I'm really concerned about the people that are on the super high doses, especially if they're not strength training... because taking the peptide away is gonna... they're just gonna crash and burn and then they are gonna have muscle loss."

The conversation emphasizes the importance of dosage management and the role of strength training in sustaining long-term benefits from GLP-1 therapies.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) in Menopause

Transitioning to hormone therapy, Dr. Moore critiques past studies, particularly the Women's Health Initiative, which had misled many regarding estrogen's safety. She distinguishes between natural, bioidentical progesterone and synthetic progestins, advocating for the former in mitigating estrogen's adverse effects.

Dr. Moore [04:37]: "I don't like using unmitigated estrogen alone. I like having a progesterone on board."

Dr. Moore elaborates on the critical role of HRT in managing menopausal symptoms, preventing insulin resistance, and maintaining metabolic health. She shares personal and clinical observations on how estrogen deficiency leads to musculoskeletal issues and altered fat distribution.

The Impact of Estrogen on Metabolic Health

The dialogue delves deeper into estrogen's protective benefits when balanced correctly. Dr. Moore explains how estrogen aids in muscle protein synthesis and cardiovascular health but can become detrimental if hormonal balance is disrupted due to factors like excessive adipose tissue.

Dr. Moore [07:15]: "Estrogen's protective benefits to our cardiovascular system... they might actually cause vasoconstriction... protective against dementia."

She warns against the consequences of delayed hormone therapy, which can lead to increased obesity and metabolic compromise, thereby negating estrogen's benefits.

The Triad Strategy: GLP-1s, HRT, and Strength Training

Dr. Moore introduces the concept of a "triad" strategy, integrating GLP-1 medications, HRT, and strength training as a comprehensive approach to midlife health. She posits that while HRT and strength training are non-negotiable elements, GLP-1s serve as a valuable addition when appropriately managed.

Dr. Moore [09:47]: "It's like this triad of GLP1s, HRT and strength training that I think are just... essential."

This holistic approach aims to reset metabolic health, reduce inflammatory adipose tissue, and optimize hormone therapy outcomes.

Challenges in Hormone Therapy: Balancing Estrogen and Testosterone

The conversation shifts to the interplay between testosterone and estrogen, particularly in women undergoing hormone therapy. Dr. Moore discusses the role of the aromatase enzyme in converting testosterone to estrone, a less favorable estrogen subtype prevalent in menopausal women.

Dr. Moore [10:24]: "Depending on how your aromatase enzyme is behaving... it converts into estrone, not estradiol."

She emphasizes the necessity of comprehensive hormone testing to ensure balanced therapy and prevent the adverse effects of hormonal imbalances.

Navigating Medical Expertise and Resources

Towards the episode's conclusion, Dr. Moore and Jen Cohen address the challenges patients face in accessing knowledgeable medical professionals. Dr. Moore acknowledges her limited availability for new patients due to media commitments but offers resources such as her comprehensive course for clinicians and a free video series for the general public.

Dr. Moore [14:06]: "I made a course for clinicians that I let the general public into... if people are interested, they can find it on my website."

This segment highlights the importance of seeking informed healthcare providers capable of managing complex hormone therapies and integrating them with other treatments like GLP-1s.

Key Takeaways:

1. GLP-1 Medications: Beyond weight loss, they facilitate neuroplasticity and behavior modification, with benefits maximized through proper dosing and lifestyle integration.

2. Hormone Replacement Therapy: Essential for managing menopausal symptoms and preventing metabolic decline, best utilized with bioidentical progesterone to balance estrogen.

3. Strength Training: Crucial in sustaining muscle mass and enhancing the efficacy of GLP-1 therapies, preventing muscle loss associated with high-dose usage.

4. Holistic Approach: Combining GLP-1s, HRT, and strength training offers a synergistic strategy for maintaining health during midlife transitions.

5. Medical Guidance: Access to knowledgeable healthcare providers is vital for effective hormone and medication management, underscoring the need for specialized resources.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps:

• Dr. Moore [00:45]: "There is a neuroplasticity that occurs on the GLP1s, meaning your brain is wiring new pathways and learning new behaviors and hardwiring it in."

• Dr. Moore [03:48]: "I'm really concerned about the people that are on the super high doses... they're just gonna crash and burn and then they are gonna have muscle loss."

• Dr. Moore [04:37]: "I don't like using unmitigated estrogen alone. I like having a progesterone on board."

• Dr. Moore [07:15]: "Estrogen's protective benefits to our cardiovascular system... they might actually cause vasoconstriction... protective against dementia."

• Dr. Moore [09:47]: "It's like this triad of GLP1s, HRT and strength training that I think are just... essential."

• Dr. Moore [10:24]: "Depending on how your aromatase enzyme is behaving... it converts into estrone, not estradiol."

This episode provides a comprehensive exploration of the interconnected roles of GLP-1 medications, hormone therapy, and physical training in optimizing health during midlife. Dr. Tina Moore's insights offer valuable guidance for those seeking to navigate the complexities of hormonal balance and metabolic health.