I am Dr. Sarah Bonza, the founder of Bonza Health, an online medical practice dedicated to helping women navigate the perimenopausal changes. Our focus lies in a deeply holistic approach, with an emphasis on wellness coaching, lifestyle medicine, and functional medicine. Today, I'm excited to talk to you about the future of medicine - a future that I passionately believe rests firmly on the pillars of wellness and lifestyle medicine.

Why the future of medicine rests on the pillars of wellness and lifestyle medicine

In recent years, the healthcare sector has observed an alarming rise in chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Conventional medicine tends to address these ailments primarily with medication and surgical procedures, which can certainly be effective in the short-term. However, this approach often falls short in addressing the root cause of these conditions, which are frequently rooted in lifestyle choices. Enter the roles of wellness and lifestyle medicine, as they're proactive rather than reactive approaches, emphasizing disease prevention through healthy behaviors and lifestyle modifications.

The beauty of wellness coaching is that it isn't solely concerned with disease prevention or reversal. While these are vital aspects, wellness coaches also work with individuals to envision an ideal future - one that encompasses not only physical health, but also emotional well-being, career satisfaction, happiness, and deep, meaningful connections. It's about crafting a holistic vision of wellness that's sustainable in the long term.

Why is wellness particularly important for women experiencing perimenopause?

Perimenopause is a critical life stage that signifies the transition to menopause, typically occurring between the ages of 40 to 50, but can begin as young as 35 years old in some women. This stage is characterized by a decrease in estrogen levels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mood fluctuations. Thus, perimenopause isn't merely a phase of hot flashes and irregular periods. It is, in fact, a pivotal stage that can set the trajectory for a woman's health for the rest of her life.

Decreased estrogen levels during perimenopause can impact a woman's body in several ways. For example, low estrogen can lead to an increase in belly fat, which is associated with an elevated risk of heart disease and diabetes. Additionally, it can also lead to bone loss, heightening the risk of osteoporosis. Moreover, this hormonal shift can increase the propensity for mood swings, anxiety, and depression.

Given these complexities, every woman navigating perimenopause could benefit greatly from a wellness coach. A wellness coach would not only help them understand these changes but also equip them with strategies to manage symptoms, adopt healthy habits, and minimize the risk of developing chronic diseases.

Why should your physician be offering a wellness coach?

Simply put, the synergy between a physician and a wellness coach can create a comprehensive, holistic healthcare approach. While physicians are excellent at diagnosing and treating medical conditions, wellness coaches can provide invaluable support in lifestyle modifications. They can offer personalized strategies, continuous motivation, and hold you accountable for your health goals. This combined effort ensures a higher quality of healthcare and can greatly contribute to a patient's overall well-being.

Here at Bonza Health, we understand the power of combining medical expertise with wellness coaching. We believe that this approach, especially during perimenopause, empowers women to "reclaim their vitality" and set a strong foundation for a healthy future. Together, we can redefine healthcare, prioritize prevention, and embrace wellness for a life well-lived.

Until next time,

Dr. Sarah Bonza