Hot flashes can catch us off guard, but understanding their roots can make a world of difference. In this episode, we’re breaking down what’s really behind those sudden heat waves and some surprising risks that come with them. Learn about the real power of bioidentical hormones—like estrogen and progesterone—and how they’re not just for symptom relief but are vital for protecting your brain, heart, and bones. Plus, we’ll talk about why tweaking your diet and reducing stress can help but can’t replace the deeper hormonal support your body needs during menopause.   We’re also getting into the bigger picture—how menopause isn’t just about hot flashes but can increase your risks for things like heart disease and metabolic syndrome. We’ll talk about hormone therapy, natural herbs that might help, and some practical tips for navigating this phase. I’m even sharing why stress can make hot flashes worse and how your estrogen levels affect more than you might realize, especially when it comes to your heart health. There’s a lot here to help you feel more empowered on your menopause journey.   Oh, and before you go—let me introduce you to Estro Balance Mastery! It’s a formula I created specifically to help manage perimenopausal symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, and night sweats. If you’re looking for some extra support, head to metabolicblueprint.com/pod10 to get 10% off your first bottle! It’s an easy way to give your body what it needs to feel more balanced. Key Takeaways: [06:04] Hypothalamus regulates hormones. [09:15] Narrow thermo-regulatory zone worsens hot flashes. [10:15] Health affects women's workforce participation. [15:40] Hot flashes increase stroke risk. [17:31] Insulin resistance adds abdominal fat. [19:56] Early hot flashes may signal heart issues. [23:32] Functional medicine offers preventive care. [29:40] Restoring hormones and lifestyle eases symptoms. Memorable Quotes: "Hot flashes and night sweats are not just frustrating; not just embarrassing, they actually are from the fact that your thermoregulatory control is no longer being managed by estrogen. And the more frequent you get them, the more likely you are to be at risk for stroke and heart attack and the more increased risk you have for cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, which is hardening of the arteries, and stroke risk." — Betty Murray   "We will actually help you figure out what your next best step is because at the end of the day, you shouldn't have to struggle and you shouldn't have to carry increased risk for all-cause mortality because you're a menopausal woman." — Betty Murray Links Mentioned: Estro Balance Mastery (Get 10% OFF first order): https://metabolicblueprint.com/pod10/   Connect with Betty Murray: Living Well Dallas Website: https://www.livingwelldallas.com/ Hormone Reset Website: https://hormonereset.net/ Betty Murray Website: https://www.bettymurray.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BettyAMurrayCN/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bettymurray_phd/   Produced by Evolved Podcasting: www.evolvedpodcasting.com