We all want thicker hair, a flatter stomach and stronger immune function. And there may be an easy way to get it. We’re talking about nutrient-rich “liquid gold” bovine colostrum, the yellow premilk that flows before a cow’s regular milk arrives. The hype about the benefits of colostrum for women is loud. Social media buzzes with testimonials, and wellness influencers tout the benefits of this viral health supplement that’s been called “nature’s first superfood.”

Even Johns Hopkins–trained preventive medicine expert Earl J. Campazzi, Jr., MD, author of the forthcoming book The Right Supplements, has noticed the craze. “Over the last year, I have been asked more and more questions about colostrum, mostly from women in their 40s and 50s,” he reveals. Could this natural superfood be the modern solution we’ve been searching for? Here’s what experts want you to know about colostrum benefits.

What is colostrum made of?

Compared to regular dairy milk, bovine colostrum packs significantly more protein, explains Yelena Paul, a registered nutritional therapist. This protein boost comes from elevated levels of casein and antibodies called immunoglobulins. You may recall that casein is the solid, slow-digesting protein found in cow’s milk, while whey is the watery liquid part. Research in the journal Nutrients finds that bovine colostrum is 15 percent protein on the first day it is released, gradually decreasing to about three percent by the time it is replaced by mature milk.

Colostrum’s benefits aren’t just a modern discovery. There is a rich history of using this dairy product. “Bovine colostrum has been consumed by humans for centuries,” explains Paul, citing research. “Its antimicrobial properties made it a valuable treatment for bacterial diseases before antibiotics like penicillin were discovered.”

The 4 main health benefits of colostrum

Experts point to multiple colostrum benefits:

Gut protection

The strongest human research involving colostrum focuses on gut healing. “It decreases gut permeability or ‘leaky gut,’” explains Dr. Campazzi. It can repair damage to the gut lining, which can happen when using pain relievers called NSAIDs. He explains this benefit is especially enticing for women in midlife. “Estrogen decline changes the gut lining, so a gut-barrier supplement makes biological sense. Women this age also take plenty of ibuprofen.” Some research also suggests colostrum may help support digestive health for those managing inflammatory bowel conditions like IBD.

Better immunity

Colostrum is also believed to stimulate immune system development—it helps babies jumpstart their immunity after birth. In terms of the benefits for adults, “Colostrum is packed with immune cells and antibodies, which is helpful to counteract immune suppressing effects of stress and illness,” says registered dietician nutritionist Jaclyn Fleisher.

Muscle support

“Colostrum can aid in muscle recovery, which is especially important for women over the age of 40 in the preservation of lean muscle mass,” adds Fleisher, highlighting tissue repair and growth as two key perks. Colostrum has even made a pop culture splash in this area: An episode of the show Poker Face centered around solving a zany mystery involving body builders and stolen colostrum.

Beauty benefits

Some women take colostrum supplements to help restore youthful skin and hair. “It has bioactive nutrients and regenerative peptides that accelerate the hair growth cycle and reduce hair shedding,” says Stephanie Redmond, a board-certified clinical pharmacist and founder of Dr. Stephanie’s supplements.

What about the benefits of colostrum during menopause?

Some experts are enthusiastic about colostrum’s potential to help deliver benefits for a wide range of symptoms during menopause. “As we approach and surpass 40, our estrogen and progesterone declines leading to a series of physiological changes,” Redmond explains. That can trigger the following symptoms:

• Hair loss becomes more common with age, since estrogen protected our strands in our youth.
• Belly bloat is also common, due to dramatic shifts in our gut microbiome following hormone changes. “Colostrum seals the mucosal lining of the gut for improved digestion, leading to less stomach distention and bloating,” Redmond says.
• Autoimmune responses can soar in women. We become prone to new conditions or flare ups as we lose the anti-inflammatory protection of estrogen.

“Colostrum is the perfect superfood to negate the negative impact of these specific hormonal transitions,” explains Redmond.

Who is colostrum right for?

“Generally, most people, especially women over 40, would experience some benefits from taking colostrum since its benefits are so widespread,” says Redmond. But she sees certain groups benefiting the most. “Especially if you are a woman going through hormonal transitions (think postpartum, perimenopause). GLP-1 users are also a great group to benefit from this, as are those with poor digestion and those traveling a lot and exposed to bugs,” she adds.

You could start to see colostrum benefits within weeks

Redmond, who has developed a colostrum formulation, can share customer feedback. She says, “Within one to two weeks you should start to notice an improvement in digestion measured as less bloating, less stomach distention, reduced constipation and gas. The benefits will improve over four to eight weeks for maximum effect.”

What about beauty benefits? “Improvements in skin appearance can also happen quickly—within the first two to four weeks—and are amazing, so many of our customers comment on this first!” She admits, “Hair growth can take a bit longer, usually two to three months since regrowth can take time to notice.” But she also hears a lot of women talk about a general improvement in well being. “You should notice improvements in energy and vitality within the first week as well.”

What to know before you try colostrum

While colostrum shows promise for many women, there are a few important considerations before you start supplementing.

• Avoid it if you’re sensitive to dairy. While bovine colostrum seems to be well tolerated by most people, “If you are lactose intolerant or allergic to milk, colostrum may not be suitable,” Paul says.
• Seek out quality brands. “Since supplements are not regulated by the FDA, look for products featuring third-party testing and standardization,” says Fleisher. Brands that have been independently tested for quality, safety and purity often have the NSF or Informed Choice designation printed on their packaging.
• Ready to try it for yourself? For capsules, check out Dr. Stephanie’s Primal Blend Purified Colostrum ($29 for 30 day supply). For powder to stir into water or smoothies, try Bovita Health Colostrum ($29 for 10 stick packs).

The bottom line on colostrum benefits

Dr. Campazzi sums up colostrum this way: “Safe for most, modestly supported [by research], genuinely interesting for gut health.” While it’s not a miracle cure, colostrum offers real hope for women navigating the challenges of menopause. Whether you’re struggling with thinning hair, uncomfortable bloating or low energy, this superfood could be the gentle, natural support your body needs. And with results possible in as little as one to two weeks, there’s never been a better time to discover if colostrum’s “liquid gold” benefits are right for you.

Does drinking water improve your mood? Yes—when you time it right. If you’ve ever woken up foggy, grumpy or just…off, the fix may be sitting in a glass on your nightstand. New research points to a simple, almost effortless habit that can set the tone for a brighter morning: a small sip of plain water before bed. Here’s what the science says, and how to make it work without sending you shuffling to the bathroom at 2 a.m.

Does drinking water improve your mood?

Most of us instinctively avoid gulping a lot of water right before bed. Nobody wants a middle-of-the-night wake-up call. But researchers found that people who drink about 9 ounces of plain water within two hours of sleep may have a sunnier mood the next morning.

Japanese scientists writing in PLOS One tracked how this micro-hydration habit affects next-day emotions and found it had a positive effect. The reason? Sleep is essentially a long stretch of not drinking anything, and even mild overnight dehydration can trigger short-term brain changes that show up as crankiness, brain fog or a low mood when you first open your eyes.

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This Simple Water Trick May Help You Lose Weight—No Diet Needed

Water is the ultimate multitasker, hydrating, energizing and supporting nearly every function in the body—and it can even help you shed unwanted pounds, too. While it’s no magic bullet, drinking more water burns calories and curbs cravings for less healthy foods.  Before diving into the best way to drink water for weight loss, let’s review […]

Why hydration and mood are so closely linked

Your brain is remarkably sensitive to small shifts in fluid balance. When you’re even a little dehydrated, energy and emotional regulation can take a hit—which is part of why an afternoon slump sometimes clears up the moment you finish a glass of water.

Overnight, the same principle applies, only you can’t keep up with fluid intake when you’re sleeping, of course. Drinking enough water before bed helps your body coast through the night with a little more reserve, so you wake up on steadier emotional ground. (Learn more about how much water you really need to drink per day.)

How to get the benefits—without overnight bathroom breaks

The good news is you don’t need to overhaul your evening routine. A few small tweaks to your drinking habits help you stay on top of your daily water intake without overdoing it.

• Keep it small. Aim for about 9 ounces—roughly a standard glass—within two hours before lights out. That’s typically enough to stay hydrated without overloading your bladder.
• Stick to plain water. Skip sparkling drinks with added ingredients or anything containing caffeine or sugar. Plain water is what the research looked at, and it’s the gentlest option for your stomach and your sleep. Tip: Not a fan of plain tap water? Try the Ninja HydraSense Countertop Water Filtration System, which eliminates up to 99 percent of contaminants for cleaner-tasting water.
• Sip, don’t chug. Slow sips over the course of the evening are easier on your body than one big swallow right before bed.
• Front-load the evening. If you’re worried about overnight bathroom-break disruptions, finish your sip closer to the two-hour mark than to bedtime.
• Pair it with a wind-down cue. Sipping water while you wash your face, read a chapter or set out tomorrow’s clothes helps the habit stick.

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A brighter morning is closer than you think

You’ll likely notice the difference within a few mornings—less fog, a lighter mood and a gentler start to the day. It’s a tiny shift, just a glass of water and a little intention before you turn out the light. Sometimes, the simplest self-care really is the most powerful.

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Whether you fell in love with Dolly Parton for her iconic style, philanthropy or soulful voice, the country music icon was often an open book—including when it came to her health. Parton spoke about several health challenges she faced, including kidney stones, before she passed away at 80 on August 25.  She also dealt with a women’s health issue that the World Health Organization says impacts 190 million women of reproductive age worldwide: endometriosis. Below, we take a look at how Dolly Parton was impacted by endometriosis, how it impacted her ability to have children and what you should do if you suspect you might have the condition. 

Dolly Parton’s health and experience with endometriosis 

According to People, Parton dealt with endometriosis for years—and she even spoke about women’s health issues she had faced decades earlier.

“Back in the early ‘80s, I was down for several months with female issues, and I was struggling with my weight at the time too, so it’s not like I haven’t been through hard times with my health,” Parton said in the interview. 

She also opened up about her health in her book Dolly on Dolly: Interviews and Encounters with Dolly Parton, revealing she eventually had a partial hysterectomy in her 30s.

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What is endometriosis?

“Endometriosis is a disease in which tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus,” explains Pankaj Singhal, MD, MS, MHCM, FACOG, master surgeon at New York Gynecology Surgery & Endometriosis. “The lining of the uterus has a name. It’s called the endometrium, and it’s the tissue that builds up each month and sheds during a period. In endometriosis, tissue that behaves a lot like that lining turns up in the wrong places. On the ovaries. On the fallopian tubes. On the pelvic lining, which is the thin membrane covering everything inside the pelvis. Sometimes on the bowel or the bladder. Now and then on the diaphragm, the muscle under the lungs.”

Unlike other health conditions where the cause is more straightforward, the tricky thing about endometriosis is that medical professionals are still trying to understand it themselves. 

“We still don’t know exactly why some women develop endometriosis and others don’t,” explains Kathleen Green, MD, an ob-gyn at Maven Clinic. “There are several theories, and it’s probably a combination of factors rather than one single cause. Genetics clearly play a role, as do hormones, inflammation and the immune system. One longstanding theory involves menstrual blood and cells traveling backward through the fallopian tubes into the pelvis, but that alone doesn’t explain endometriosis because this happens in many women who never develop the disease.”

What Dolly Parton said about her health—and why she didn’t have children 

In a 1987 interview with Today, Parton opened up about her fertility struggles. “I can’t have children physically. I love children. I don’t know that it also wasn’t God’s will, you know, for me not to have kids,” Parton said in the interview. “I mean, I try to look at things in a way that I can put them in a proper place because somebody has to be out there doing something to entertain other people’s children.” 

Then in a 2018 interview with Closer, Parton opened up about a time in 1982 when her period was so intense with severe pain and abdominal bleeding that she had to not only seek out medical treatment, but also ultimately cancel her tour that year.

Endometriosis symptoms women need to know

The endometriosis symptoms Parton shared with the public align with some of the most common signs women experience. 

“The classic symptom is painful periods, but the important distinction is that we’re not talking about mild menstrual cramps,” explains Dr. Green. “Women with endometriosis may have pain severe enough that they miss school or work or can’t participate in their normal activities.” Dr. Green says other common symptoms include:

• Pain with intercourse 
• Bleeding that is irregular or heavy 
• Chronic pelvic pain
• Pain with urination or bowel movements, usually around your period
• Difficulty becoming pregnant

As for sneaky symptoms you might mistake for another health issue or simply life? The biggest one is fatigue, adds Dr. Green. She says that back pain, constipation, nausea, diarrhea and bloating could also be less-obvious signs of endometriosis. “Some women spend years being told they have IBS or that painful periods are simply something they have to live with,” Dr. Green continues. 

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What to do if you think you have endometriosis 

“A routine annual visit is built around cancer screening, contraception and general health, and it runs fifteen or twenty minutes,” says Dr. Singhal. “Endometriosis often produces a completely normal examination. Unless the conversation turns to pain, the disease can sit quietly through years of perfectly good annual visits. Nobody’s doing anything wrong here. The question just never gets asked.”

So what should you do before your next exam? 

• Track two to three cycles: Dr. Singhal recommends tracking pain out of 10, dates, what you took for pain, what the pain stopped you from doing that day and any symptoms that impacted your sex life, bowels or bladder. “It stops you talking yourself out of it,” adds Dr. Singhal. “Women routinely underplay their own symptoms in the room and then read their own diary back in astonishment.”
• Ask directly: After bringing your one-page log of your symptoms and handing it to your medical provider at the start of your appointment, Dr. Singhal recommends asking “Could this be endometriosis?” directly and saying the word out loud. He also recommends asking for a pelvic ultrasound instead of a routine scan. 
• Get a second opinion: If your medical provider doesn’t diagnose and manage endometriosis, ask for a referral to someone who does. “Do not accept two answers: that bad periods are normal, or that a clear scan means nothing is wrong,” adds Dr. Singhal. “Neither is true, and these beliefs are why so many women lose years before getting help.”

Dolly Parton’s openness about her health spreads awareness

When people in the public eye like Dolly Parton openly share their health struggles, the ripple effect can be huge. Because of her candidness and vulnerability, more women have started asking themselves if they might have endometriosis too. So if any of the symptoms above sound familiar, have a conversation with your doctor about what could be going on.

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If you’re tossing and turning most nights—or waking at 3 a.m. and staring at the ceiling—you’re in good company. Sleep tends to get lighter and choppier as we age, and by 50, many of us feel like a solid seven hours is a distant memory. You may have heard about the benefits of a GABA supplement for sleep. But it turns out pairing it with one simple thing can markedly improve the benefits—and even help you lose stubborn weight. Here’s what to know.

How to boost the benefits of GABA for sleep

New research in The Journal of Nutritional Physiology found that older women who combined at-home exercise with a 100-mg daily dose of GABA—a supplement that calms the nervous system—dramatically improved their sleep quality over 16 weeks. Even better, they lost weight in the process.

The reason comes down to hormones. Researchers found that pairing the daily supplement with regular movement boosted levels of growth hormone, a known trigger to help us fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer and wake less often during the night.

That’s a big deal, because growth hormone naturally dips as we age, and this drop is one reason midlife sleep starts to feel so fragile. Give your body a nudge to make more of it, and rest tends to fall back into place.

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What GABA actually does for sleep

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) is a neurotransmitter your body already makes. Its job is to quiet an overactive brain—the racing-thought, mental-to-do-list feeling that keeps so many of us wide awake at bedtime. As a supplement, it’s widely available and typically well tolerated, though it’s always smart to talk to your doctor before starting anything new, especially if you take medication.

The 100-mg dose used in the study is on the modest end, which is reassuring for anyone wary of megadoses. Look for a reputable brand and take it in the evening, before your wind-down routine. One option to try: Thorne PharmaGABA-100.

The benefits of this powerful duo

You don’t need a gym membership or a punishing workout to see the long-term health benefits of this pairing. The study specifically looked at at-home exercise—the kind of gentle, doable movement that fits into a real life.

Generally speaking, that can mean:

• A brisk walk around the block after dinner
• About 10 to 15 minutes of light strength work with resistance bands or hand weights
• Bodyweight moves like squats, wall push-ups or step-ups on your bottom stair
• A short yoga or stretching flow before bed

The magic seems to be in the consistency, not the intensity. Moving your body most days of the week—even in small doses—signals to your system that it’s time to build, repair and, eventually, rest.

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If you’ve ever wondered whether those late nights scrolling on your phone might be showing up on the scale, you’re not imagining things. The link between sleep and weight is real—and the answer to “does lack of sleep cause weight gain” is a resounding yes, according to a growing body of research. Here’s the good […]

The bottom line on GABA for sleep

If deep, restorative sleep has been feeling out of reach, this pairing is worth trying. A modest supplement, a little daily movement, 16 weeks of patience—and the potential to finally wake up feeling like yourself again. That’s the kind of simple swap our bodies respond to in midlife and beyond.

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If your last checkup revealed elevated liver enzymes or fat deposits on your liver, don’t panic. Fatty liver disease is common, often reversible and very much within your power to manage—especially if you catch it early. The best part? Since the condition can slow your metabolism, clearing excess fat from the hardworking organ can make weight loss easier. Here’s everything you need to know about how to reverse fatty liver disease after 50 at home, from kitchen-staple remedies to sound sleep to stress relief.

What is fatty liver disease?

“Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, now often called metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), happens when too much fat builds up inside liver cells,” explains Steven Goldberg, MD, MBA, chief medical officer of HealthTrackRx. Over time, that buildup can lead to inflammation and scarring, known as metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH). The condition affects roughly one in four adults worldwide, and less than five percent of people even know they have it, per the American Association of Clinical Endocrinology.

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Why women over 50 are more at risk

Age and hormones play a big role. Gastroenterologist Pradnya Mitroo, MD, notes that as women hit midlife, hormone shifts often lead to belly fat accumulation. “This visceral fat leads to fat deposits in the liver,” she says. 

Dr. Goldberg says fatty liver is most common in adults between 40 and 60 who also have prediabetes or type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol or triglycerides, high blood pressure or excess weight. And the real dietary culprit isn’t fat—it’s processed sugar, according to sugar researcher Robert Lustig, MD.

The tricky part? Fatty liver disease often has no symptoms. Doctors typically diagnose it through blood tests (ALT, AST), a liver ultrasound or FibroScan.

How to reverse fatty liver disease naturally

The good news: Lifestyle changes work, often improving fatty liver disease within weeks. Here’s what’s actually worth trying:

Eat a healthy diet

“The Mediterranean diet has the strongest evidence for improving liver health,” Dr. Mitroo says. Load up on fish, chicken, eggs, nuts, olive oil, avocado, legumes and whole grains. One study found that 45 percent of fatty liver disease participants who followed a Mediterranean diet for a year saw dramatic improvement, and 20 percent achieved complete remission.

Reach for these spices and herbs

Several pantry favorites show real promise for reducing liver fat:

• Saffron: In a recent animal study, mice given a saffron compound had up to 48 percent lower liver triglycerides.
• Turmeric: Small human studies show curcumin may lower liver fat and improve cholesterol. Dr. Goldberg suggests pairing it with black pepper and a bit of fat to boost absorption.
• Ginger: Fresh grated ginger in tea or stir-fries may help regulate liver fat storage.
• Garlic: One to two cloves a day may help the body process fat more effectively, making it easier to clear excess fat in your liver.

Sip liver-friendly drinks

It turns out there are certain juices and drinks that can help reverse fatty liver disease too. Po-Chang Hsu, MD, recommends beet juice, mixed berry smoothies, lemon water and turmeric lattes to support detoxification and lower inflammation. Amy Myers, MD, adds that green celery juice can also stimulate liver enzyme production.

Enjoy more fruit

Dietitian Erin Palinski-Wade, RD, points to avocado, grapefruit, blueberries and apples as top picks to fending off liver damage. Half an avocado a day can help lower cholesterol, and grapefruit compounds may improve fat metabolism. Skip dried fruits with added sugars and sugary fruit juices if you’re looking to reverse fatty liver disease.

Move a little every day

Dr. Mitroo recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, with an emphasis on resistance training and walking after meals. “Even brisk walking improves liver fat and insulin sensitivity,” adds Helen Messier, MD, PhD.

Prioritize sleep and stress relief

Deep sleep and lower stress support cellular repair and help tamp down inflammation. Plus the sleep-and-stress-relief combo also makes it easier to lose weight.

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How 3 Women Reversed Fatty Liver Disease and Lost Nearly 300 Lbs. Combined

If your doctor has mentioned fatty liver disease after a recent round of blood tests, take a deep breath—you’re in good company. Experts estimate up to 80 percent of us have some degree of a sluggish, congested or fatty liver, often without any obvious symptoms. The wonderful news? Real women are proving every day that […]

Prescription meds that help reverse fatty liver disease

For those of us who need more support, medical options are expanding. Ozempic (semaglutide) is showing promise for fatty liver, though it’s not currently FDA-approved for that use. Edmond Hakimi, DO, medical director at Wellbridge, explains that semaglutide targets the root causes of fatty liver disease—a higher body weight and insulin resistance. A study in The New England Journal of Medicine found 59 percent of MASH patients on a high dose of semaglutide for 72 weeks saw improvement without worsening of fibrosis, and 43 percent saw improvement in fibrosis itself.

The FDA has also approved Rezdiffra (remestirom), the first drug designed specifically for MASH patients with moderate to advanced liver scarring. “Rezdiffra specifically targets liver fat metabolism and fibrosis, making it potentially more effective for advanced cases,” Dr. Hakimi says.

Keep in mind: Insurance rarely covers Ozempic without a type 2 diabetes diagnosis, and side effects can include nausea, vomiting and gallbladder issues. Talk to your doctor about whether medication makes sense alongside lifestyle changes to help reverse fatty liver disease.

The bottom line on reversing fatty liver disease

“This is a lifestyle-related disease and can be completely treated by lifestyle changes,” Dr. Mitroo says. Start with small swaps today—your liver will thank you.

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Nearly half of adults over 30 and almost 60 percent of adults over 65 experience periodontal issues, according to MedlinePlus Magazine. And recent research revealed that gum disease bacteria can lead to more serious conditions, such as hardening of arteries in the heart. “Oral health should be viewed as an integral part of overall health,” says Anna Becil Giglio, DDS, president of the American Academy of Periodontology. Regular brushing and flossing help, but if you’re already affected, don’t fret. These at-home gum disease treatment options protect your smile.

4 gum disease treatment options you can try at home

First thing’s first: Keeping up with regular brushing, flossing and professional cleanings at your dentist are some of the smartest things you can do to cut down on dental plaque and the bacteria that cause gum disease. Dealing with sensitivity? A toothpaste like Colgate Total Active Prevention Sensitivity Mineral Shield helps target the root cause of gingivitis, a common form of gum disease, while reducing sensitivity.

Not sure if you have gum disease? “Bleeding gums during brushing or flossing is often one of the earliest signs of periodontal disease and should never be ignored,” Dr. Giglio says. If you notice these red flags, be sure to schedule a visit with your dentist. In the meantime, these at-home gum disease treatments can help:

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Make time for R&R

A study in the Journal of Clinical Medicine has shown a connection between stress and periodontal disease. “[Stress] can alter the body’s immune and inflammatory responses, making it more difficult for the immune system to control the bacterial biofilm that causes gum disease,” Dr. Giglio says. “Elevated levels of stress hormones such as cortisol may impair healing and contribute to an exaggerated inflammatory response that accelerates tissue destruction.” But gentle yoga practice and mindful breathing can help reduce cortisol production, providing a dose of gum-protecting zen. (Discover more ways to reduce stress fast.)

Try a burn balm

You know aloe vera’s power to soothe burns. Now, a study found its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties also reduce gum irritation. “Some studies have shown that when aloe vera gel or mouth rinses are used in conjunction with recommended periodontal treatments, some of the test subjects’ gums were less swollen,” Dr. Giglio says. One option to try: AloeDent Aloe Vera Mouthwash.

Crunch on celery

Described by some as nature’s dental floss, fibrous celery is filled with water and helps clean bacteria from the mouth while promoting blood circulation as it rubs against the gums while eating. “Crunchy vegetables such as celery may also stimulate saliva production, which helps clear food debris and maintain a healthier oral environment,” Dr. Giglio adds.

Sleep in

Turning in early can improve the health of your teeth and gums. A review of multiple studies in Sleep Medicine Reviews found that those who did not get enough quality sleep had a greater occurrence of gum disease and tooth decay. Dr. Giglio says that adequate sleep “contributes to a healthier immune response and better periodontal health.” Aim for seven to nine hours of shut-eye a night—one of the most relaxing gum-disease treatment options there is. (Discover some of our best sleep tips.)  

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When to see a doctor about gum disease treatment

If at-home remedies for gum disease aren’t enough, your dentist offers professional treatments that can help. That may include a type of deep cleaning known as scaling and root planing to scrape away stubborn tartar, medication and in some advanced cases, surgery to replace gum tissue and bone.

The bottom line? You don’t have to suffer through bleeding gums or persistent bad breath. There are gum disease treatments that can help restore your healthy smile. 

A version of this story appears in the September 28, 2026, issue of Woman’s World.

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If you’ve ever wondered whether those late nights scrolling on your phone might be showing up on the scale, you’re not imagining things. The link between sleep and weight is real—and the answer to “does lack of sleep cause weight gain” is a resounding yes, according to a growing body of research.

Here’s the good news: A few extra minutes of shut-eye each night could make it easier to keep pounds off—or finally shed the ones you’ve been trying to lose. Let’s break down what’s really happening in your body and how simple bedtime tweaks can help.

Does lack of sleep cause weight gain?

A study published in the Annals of Internal Medicine found that even mild sleep deprivation—equal to skipping 78 minutes of Zzzs to scroll TikTok—could lead adults to gain about nine pounds a year. That’s because chronic sleep deficits prompt fattening hormonal shifts inside the body.

In other words, weight management is not only about willpower or what’s on your plate. When you’re consistently short on sleep, your body chemistry begins working against you.

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Can’t Lose Weight on Semaglutide? Poor Sleep May Be Sabotaging Your Efforts

Experts share four tips for deep, sound sleep that helps ward off diet-derailing hunger pangs

The role sleep plays in weight gain

Sleep affects two key hunger hormones: ghrelin, which tells your brain you’re hungry, and leptin, which tells your brain you’re full. When you’re insufficient sleep, ghrelin tends to rise and leptin tends to drop—a combination that can leave you feeling hungrier and less satisfied after meals.

Research also indicates that sleep-deprived people often reach for higher-calorie, higher-carb foods. When you’re running on fumes, that cookie in the break room or the extra scoop of pasta at dinner suddenly feels irresistible. Your brain is essentially hunting for quick energy to make up for the rest it didn’t get.

Cortisol, the body’s main stress hormone, is another factor. Skimping on sleep can keep cortisol levels elevated, which encourages the body to store fat—particularly around the belly.

How more sleep can make weight loss easier

Prioritizing sleep may be one of the simplest, most effective things you can do to support a healthy weight—no calorie counting required. When you’re well-rested, your hunger hormones tend to balance out, cravings ease and you have more energy to move throughout the day. You’re also more likely to make thoughtful food choices instead of grabbing whatever’s fastest. 

Simple bedtime tweaks to try tonight

To stay lean—or make weight loss easier—aim for at least 7 hours of sleep per night. These small changes can help:

• Set a screen curfew. Put the phone down at least 30 minutes before bed. 
• Keep your bedroom cool and dark. Cooler rooms support deeper, more restorative sleep.
• Stick to a schedule. Going to bed and waking up at roughly the same time each day helps regulate your natural sleep-wake cycle.
• Skip the late-night snacks. Eating a heavy meal or snack too close to bedtime can disrupt sleep quality. (Instead, consider these expert-approved bedtime snacks.)

Weight Loss

Your 4 Biggest Weight Loss Hurdles Solved—Pro Tips to Jump-Start Results

Trying to shed extra unwanted pounds or burn stubborn belly fat is rarely easy. And when weight loss hurdles pop up, progress feels even slower. Everything from craving sugar and carbs to not having enough time for exercise can lead to a weight loss plateau. So we asked Woman’s World readers’ what their biggest roadblocks […]

The bottom line on lack of sleep and weight gain

The next time you’re tempted to scroll “just five more minutes,” remember: those minutes may cost more than you think. Getting to bed a little earlier could be the key to reversing poor sleep and supporting a healthier weight. Sweet dreams really can help you wake up lighter, in every sense of the word.

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As you and your teeth have gotten older, do you find yourself hesitant to bite into an ice cream bar or swig an icy drink? If so, you’re in good company. “Tooth sensitivity is quite common in women over 50,” says Sandip Sachar, DDS, of Sachar Dental in New York City. Luckily, there are a lot of ways to ease the ouch. Keep reading for all the best and easiest options.

How menopause makes tooth sensitivity worse

First of all, studies show both women and men are impacted, with up to one in three adults eventually developing tooth sensitivity over time. Simple wear and tear, years of aggressive brushing and years of consuming acidic food and drinks can cause gums to recede and enamel to wear down. And once that happens, it exposes little microscopic channels called tubules that run directly to the nerve. Exposed tubules can really hurt when they come in contact with cold, sweets and even air. 

How can menopause make matters worse? Dry mouth is common as estrogen drops. And since saliva helps protect enamel, teeth become more vulnerable. “Lower estrogen can also reduce collagen and the thickness of gum tissue,” notes Lilya Horowitz, DDS, AAACD, FAGD, of Domino Dental in Brooklyn, New York. This can contribute to gum recession, causing painful exposure at the root of teeth.  

Now let’s get to the part where we turn things around.

6 ways to desensitize teeth—including everyday foods that protect and repair

We’re going to list options in order of how quickly they work, with the fastest first.

A fluoride varnish

“It’s basically a highly concentrated fluoride coating that is painted directly onto the sensitive areas of the teeth,” explains Dr. Sachar. It can help block those pain-inducing exposed tubules. It also helps restore key minerals like calcium and phosphate back into weakened enamel, making teeth more resistant to acid and sensitivity. “Fluoride varnish can start reducing sensitivity almost immediately. Some patients notice improvement before they even leave the dental office. Sometimes one application is enough.” Expect to pay out of pocket for the $25 to $50 procedure. But many women find that it’s so worth it.

The toothpaste that delivers fastest relief

Toothpaste with the amino acid arginine (such as Colgate Sensitive Pro-Relief) blocks up to 91 percent of exposed tubules, per research in the British Dental Journal. Separate clinical research shows this can provide significant immediate relief. 

If you have a tooth sensitivity flare-up, Dr. Sachar says you can try applying this toothpaste directly to the sensitive spot after brushing and leaving it there rather than immediately rinsing it away.

Wellness

Mouth Feel Like It’s on Fire? Here’s How To Relieve the Pain Fast

From brain fog to hot flashes, there are more than a few menopausal symptoms we’re (unfortunately) familiar with. But one that has until recently flown under the radar is the aptly named burning mouth syndrome. Just as it sounds, it’s characterized by a burning sensation in the mouth and is more common in menopausal and […]

The toothpaste option for best long-term relief

Formulas made with an ingredient called stannous fluoride (such as Sensodyne Repair & Protect) not only block tubules but also help remineralize like a DIY fluoride varnish. A recent review of over 125 studies found that when you use this toothpaste twice daily for several weeks, you get the best long-term benefits. 

And be sure to use a soft or even extra-soft toothbrush, since aggressive brushing can cause or worsen sensitivity, says Dr. Sachar.

The food that works fast 

Dairy products are a jackpot of calcium and phosphate, which the body needs to remineralize and strengthen teeth. How effective is it? In a study from Contemporary Clinical Dentistry, patients given a dental treatment that can cause tooth sensitivity were asked to gargle daily with either milk or a desensitizing mouthwash in the days that followed. Both options led to little or no discomfort—but 52 percent of the milk group was completely pain-free compared to just 40 percent in the mouth rinse group. Wow!

Not a milk drinker? “Cheese may have an additional benefit because chewing stimulates saliva, which helps neutralize acids in the mouth,” says Dr. Sachar.

A tea swap is smart

Go for black or green, whichever you prefer, and your teeth will thank you. A 2025 Inflammopharmacology study found both types of tea are rich in polyphenol antioxidants and natural fluoride that support enamel remineralization. Dr. Sachar says tea is an especially good choice if you drink it sugar-free and in place of coffee and soft drinks, which are acidic and actually worsen enamel erosion and tooth sensitivity. 

Don’t sleep on xylitol gum and crunchy produce

Anything you do to increase saliva production will help neutralize acid in your mouth and promote remineralization. There’s strong evidence showing xylitol gum like Trident, Orbit and PUR is very good at keeping the mouth nice and moist. And any low-sugar, fiber-rich food tends to have a saliva-boosting effect. “I recommend celery, carrots and cucumbers,” says Dr. Horowitz.

Wellness

Natural Remedies to Banish Bad Breath During Menopause

Bad breath is commonly caused by dry mouth, which becomes more frequent during menopause due to hormonal changes, says Irina Kessler, DDS. Hormonal changes that cause skin or vaginal dryness can also make your mouth drier. “Without enough saliva flow, bacteria build up and cause odor,” Dr. Kessler says. When saliva production decreases, odor-causing bacteria […]

Even if these tips work, you still need to see your dentist regularly

Regular dental care is essential to keep your pearly whites in great shape. When you go for your appointments, be sure to mention any issues with tooth sensitivity, since it can occasionally be a sign of something more serious like cavities, periodontal disease or tooth fractures. “You want to rule these out or get proper treatment for them,” says Dr. Sachar. 

The bottom line on tooth sensitivity after menopause

“I want women dealing with tooth sensitivity to know it does not have to be your new normal,” says Dr. Sachar. “It can be significantly improved.” Our favorite part: Some of the most effective fixes—like switching your toothpaste or ending meals with a slice of cheese—are so easy. You can be sipping ice water with abandon in no time!

You’ve just entered menopause and suddenly, you’re in the middle of sharing a thought about your favorite chapter at book club when you lose your train of thought. Or maybe you made it through your thought but just can’t find that one word. What’s going on? Blame brain fog, one of the most frustrating parts of menopause for many women. New research suggests this brain fog may tie back to important hormones like estradiol. And if that’s the case, can supplementing with estradiol-based hormone replacement therapy (HRT) help? We asked doctors to break down the new research and explain how estradiol-based hormone replacement therapy may help your brain start working a little more like the one you know well.

What is estradiol? 

“Estradiol is the primary form of estrogen in women, and it occurs naturally,” says Anna Cabeca, DO, FACOG, a triple-board certified ob-gyn, regenerative and integrative medicine physician. “Your ovaries mainly produce it during your reproductive years, and it’s vital to how your body functions, not just for reproduction, but for your brain, bones, cardiovascular system and so much more.”

When your body officially reaches menopause, meaning you’ve gone 12 months without a period, your ovaries not only stop releasing eggs, but they also produce dramatically less estradiol, explains Dr. Cabeca. “This is a natural biological shift, but the decline affects every system that depends on estrogen to function well,” she adds. 

How does the drop in estrogen impact our brains?

Juliana (Jewel) Kling, MD, MPH, Dean of the Mayo Clinic Alix School of Medicine AZ campus at the Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Arizona, explains that this natural decline in estradiol means you may experience side effects such as:

• Vaginal dryness or discomfort with sex
• Night sweats and hot flashes
• Mood changes
• Joint aches
• Sleep disruption 
• Recurrent UTIs or urgency with urination 
• Bone loss over time 

And yes, those random memory slips or issues concentrating you’ve been experiencing may also be connected. “When estrogen declines, your brain’s energy metabolism suffers,” explains Dr. Cabeca. “Estrogen also handles the transport of glucose to the brain, feeding it directly. So brain fog and memory loss during menopause aren’t in your head; they’re biochemical.”

And new research supports this connection. In a study published in Brain Imaging and Behavior, researchers measured estradiol levels in 150 women between the ages of 40 and 55. They found that women with higher levels of estradiol showed positive changes in brain connectivity while trying to remember people’s faces and names, a finding researchers say may suggest their brains were working more efficiently during memory recall.

Wellness

What Causes Memory Loss After 50? Plus 6 Signs It Could Be Dementia

Sometimes forget where you parked your car while running errands or struggle to recall an acquaintance’s name stuck on the tip of your tongue? You may be wondering if these memory lapses are a normal part of aging or cause for concern. The good news: Minor brain blips like forgetting where you put your glasses […]

Who may be a good fit for estrogen-based HRT 

One way to help combat menopausal brain fog and many other symptoms caused by fluctuating hormone levels during menopause is with estrogen-based HRT. A conversation with your doctor will help you determine if estrogen-based HRT makes sense for you, but Dr. Cabeca provides some general parameters for who may and may not be a good fit. 

Dr. Cabeca says it might help  women in early menopause or perimenopause who don’t have a health history that might make HRT unsafe and are experiencing  vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes or night sweats, cognitive decline or other symptoms caused by plummeting estrogen levels, such as vaginal dryness or bone loss. 

But women with active blood clots, a personal history of estrogen-sensitive breast cancer or those with cardiovascular conditions such as stroke or heart attack history, may not a good fit for estrogen-based HRT and should talk to their doctor further for a personalized medical assessment. 

“However, there are safe ways to optimize hormones in these individuals,” adds Dr. Cabeca. “There are also timing considerations. Starting HRT closer to menopause onset tends to offer more protection, especially for the brain.”

And unlike some medications with only one form of being administered, Dr. Cabeca says estrogen-based HRT comes in a bunch of different options including pills, creams, patches and gels. “Patches are often preferred because they bypass the liver and deliver estradiol more consistently,” adds Dr. Cabeca. 

Aging

Is It Anxiety or Perimenopause? What Dr. Mary Claire Haver Wants Women To Know

For so many women, perimenopause brings more than hot flashes. It brings brain fog so severe some are quitting their jobs, and anxiety so intense that years of carefully managed mental health unravel almost overnight. For years, the standard medical response to anxiety and other mood changes during perimenopause has been an antidepressant prescription. But […]

The bottom line on estrogen-based HRT for menopausal brain fog

Menopause can lead to many new,  frustrating symptoms, but the good news is there are options for treatment and management. A conversation with your doctor can help you narrow down what makes the most sense for you. And while estrogen-based HRT is not for everyone, it could help combat menopausal brain fog.

Still, Dr. Cabeca says combatting brain fog during menopause shouldn’t focus on estrogen alone. Proper nutrition, quality sleep, blood sugar balance, exercise and balancing other hormones, such as progresterone also play an important role, she says. 

“The brain fog you’re experiencing isn’t something you have to live with,” continues Dr. Cabeca. “It’s a signal that your brain needs fuel.”

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After a routine blood workup at your doctor’s office revealed a high A1C or prediabetes, you may have felt confused and not quite sure where to start. You’ve heard that weight loss can help, but what if your BMI is normal or you simply don’t want to prioritize weight loss at the moment? Are there other things you can do? Is weight really driving a high A1C, and if not, can you lower your A1C without losing weight? We asked doctors for the answers to all of these questions, including what you need to know about lowering your A1C without weight loss and the simple lifestyle tweaks that can help get you there.

What is A1C? 

You’ve probably seen A1C pop up in your health portal, but what exactly is it measuring and how does the result differ from checking your blood sugar at home? “A1C is a blood test that gives healthcare providers and patients a picture of a person’s average blood glucose, or blood sugar, levels over the past three months,” explains Alisa Schiffman, DO, MBA, senior medical director for Abbott’s North America diabetes care business. “While a fingerstick glucose reading tells you what’s happening at a specific moment in time, A1C helps us understand the bigger picture and identify longer-term trends.”

Dr. Schiffman and Cory Rice, DO, Chief Clinical Advisor at Biote, both say that A1C results fall into three categories:

• Normal: Below 5.7 percent 
• Prediabetes: Between 5.7 and 6.4 percent
• Diabetes: 6.5 percent or higher 

Anna Cabeca, DO, FACOG, triple-board certified ob-gyn, regenerative and integrative medicine physician, says insulin resistance can play a major role in a high A1C. “When your cells stop listening to insulin, glucose stays in your bloodstream longer instead of getting into your cells where it belongs,” Dr. Cabeca explains. “Your liver then converts that extra glucose into fat. It’s not a simple calories-in-calories-out story; it’s about how your body is processing and storing energy.”

Dr. Rice says other factors that can raise A1C include:

• Dietary habits 
• Poor sleep
• Stress of illness
• Genetics 
• Physical inactivity 

Wellness

What’s a Normal A1C for Your Age? The Answer May Surprise You

Monitoring your A1C is essential for both preventing and managing type 2 diabetes. Why? Regular testing can help detect elevated blood sugar levels and assess the effectiveness of your current treatment plan, especially when it comes to warding off diabetes complications.  But what is considered a normal A1C, and does it change with age? Here, […]

Can you have a high A1C without being overweight?

If you found your high A1C to be a surprise, one source of your confusion may have been that you aren’t overweight, so why wouldn’t your A1C be normal? Dr. Rice explains that while being overweight can certainly raise A1C risk, it doesn’t account for the whole picture. 

“One of the biggest misconceptions is that only people who are considered overweight develop prediabetes or have elevated A1C levels,” adds Dr. Schiffman. “The truth is that factors such as family history, ethnicity, age and body composition can affect glucose metabolism, regardless of what the scale says. Someone can appear healthy on the outside and still have elevated glucose levels that deserve attention.”

How to lower A1C without losing weight 

Just as you can have a high A1C without being overweight, our experts say you can also lower your A1C without having to lose weight. Dr. Cabeca shared her top four tips to help lower your A1C that don’t revolve around having to move the number on the scale. 

• Get walking: Dr. Cabeca recommends making time for a 30-minute low-intensity walk five to six days a week. “Walking lowers cortisol, which is huge for insulin sensitivity,” she explains. “Plus, movement helps your muscles pull glucose directly out of your bloodstream without needing insulin to do the job.”

• Try strength training: Aim for strength training with weights, resistance bands or exercises that use your own body weight two to three times a week for 20 to 30 minutes, recommends Dr. Cabeca. “When you build muscle, those cells pull glucose out of your blood even when you’re at rest,” explains Dr. Cabeca. “More muscle means better insulin sensitivity and lower A1C.”

• Manage your stress and prioritize sleep: A daily 10-minute deep breathing ritual and seven to nine hours of consistent sleep can be a good place to start to help manage cortisol and stress hormones, says Dr. Cabeca. “When you sleep well and manage stress, cortisol drops, and your body can finally heal its relationship with insulin,” Dr. Cabeca adds. 

• Intermittent fasting: Dr. Cabeca suggests giving a 13-hour intermittent fasting window a try. She says this might look like stopping eating after dinner around 7 pm and not eating again with breakfast until 8 am the next morning. “You’re not restricting calories; you’re creating space between meals,” adds Dr. Cabeca. 

Wellness

What Is a Dangerous Level of A1C? Doctors Reveal When To Start Worrying

If your doctor has ever mentioned your A1C number, you already sense it matters more than some typical lab results. This one test paints a big-picture view of your average blood sugar levels over the past few months and can flag trouble long before diabetes complications set in. So what is a dangerous level of […]

The bottom line on A1C and weight 

If a recent doctor’s visit revealed a high A1C, talk to your doctor about what factors may be contributing aside from weight and try one of our expert-approved lifestyle changes to not only support a healthy A1C but your overall health.

“Weight is not the villain here, and it’s not the only measure of health,” says Dr. Cabeca. “Two people at the same weight can have completely different A1C numbers, different inflammation markers [and] different energy levels. I care about your numbers, your symptoms, how you feel and whether your body is working efficiently, not what you weigh. Focus on the habits, trust the process and let the body do what it’s designed to do.”