253. Dr. Jessica Shepherd: On Menopause, HRT, and Longevity Tips for Women - The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka Recap
Podcast: The Ultimate Human with Gary Brecka
Published: 2026-03-17
Guests: Dr. Jessica Shepherd
What Happened
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a board-certified OBGYN and menopause expert, advocates for shifting healthcare spending toward preventative care to keep people out of the costly system. She notes a staggering $5 trillion is spent annually on healthcare in the U.S., and redirecting some of this toward preventative measures could lead to improved outcomes and reduced chronic diseases.
Dr. Shepherd discusses the prevalence of autoimmune diseases, which are diagnosed in women 82% of the time. She attributes this to factors like chronic stress and the decline of estrogen, which acts as a potent anti-inflammatory. Women are more prone to these diseases as they spend too much time in a sympathetic nervous state and often neglect their own health in favor of others.
Perimenopause can begin in women's late 30s and extends through their 40s, contrary to the common belief that it starts in the 50s. Symptoms include brain fog, mood disorders, and fatigue, which are often misunderstood due to inaccurate hormone level tests. Dr. Shepherd emphasizes that hormone therapy, introduced at the right stage, can prevent chronic diseases and support brain and bone health.
The flawed WHI study on hormone therapy led to a generation of women being terrified of treatment due to an FDA black box warning, which has since been removed. Dr. Shepherd points out the importance of hormone therapy during late perimenopause to early menopause (ages 45-55) for optimal benefits.
Environmental factors like microplastics, cosmetics, and heavy metals affect hormone health, contributing to the rise in autoimmune diseases. Dr. Shepherd stresses the role of gut health in maintaining a strong immune system and recommends a diet rich in whole foods and proteins to support overall health.
Dr. Shepherd has written a book, 'Generation M,' as a love letter to women experiencing menopause, aiming to shift the narrative from dread to empowerment. The book includes patient stories and discussions on sex, muscle, brain health, and meditation, fostering a sense of community among women going through menopause.
Key Insights
- Autoimmune diseases disproportionately affect women, with 82% of cases occurring in females. This prevalence is linked to chronic stress and estrogen decline, which acts as an anti-inflammatory. Trauma, as discussed by Dr. Gabor Mate, can also physically manifest as autoimmune conditions.
- Perimenopause can start in women's late 30s and carries symptoms like brain fog and mood changes. Accurate hormone therapy, initiated between ages 45-55, can prevent chronic diseases. The FDA has lifted the black box warning on hormone therapy, correcting a misunderstanding from prior studies.
- The U.S. healthcare system spends $5 trillion annually, with potential savings from shifting to preventative care. This shift could improve outcomes and reduce chronic disease costs by focusing on screenings and lifestyle interventions.
- Environmental factors, such as microplastics and processed foods, negatively impact hormone health. A diet rich in whole foods, proteins, and essential vitamins like D and B12 is crucial for maintaining health and reducing inflammation.