Latest news with #JessicaShepherd
01-06-2025
- Health
CDC adjusts guidance on COVID vaccines
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, a women's health expert and chief medical officer of "Hers," discusses the recent conflicting information on the COVID vaccine for children and pregnant women. June 1, 2025
18-05-2025
- Health
Doctors saved baby's life with gene fix for deadly rare disease
Dr. Jessica Shepherd, chief medical officer for Hers, joins ABC News Live to discuss the first-of-its-kind approach to gene-editing.
Yahoo
10-02-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Doctors Say This Is The Key To Avoiding Menopausal Weight Gain
"Hearst Magazines and Yahoo may earn commission or revenue on some items through these links." There's been a lot of focus on perimenopause and menopause over the last few years and, frankly, a lot of the noise is scary. Cruise through social media and you'll see a ton of posts about how you're doomed to experience perimenopausal weight gain, with no hopes of ever seeing the number on the scale go down again. But being proactive about menopause can make the transition period easier to manage and even empowering as you navigate through it, says Jessica Shepherd, MD, an ob-gyn in Texas and author of the book, Generation gain is a common symptom that can happen during perimenopause, and it can be harder to lose weight as you get older, says Mir Ali, MD, medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California. But it's not inevitable that you'll gain weight and not be able to lose it. Making small changes before you hit perimenopause across your diet, exercise routine, and overall lifestyle can help to set you up for success in the future, Dr. Shepherd says. 'The transition that is healthiest for menopause is one that looks at all the factors that impact our health over time,' she says. Meaning, the healthiest way to navigate menopause is to be the healthiest version of yourself in general. Ali agrees. 'If you go into perimenopause and menopause at a healthy weight and maintain good habits, that will help prevent weight gain," he says. Meet the experts: Jessica Shepherd, MD, an ob-gyn in Texas and author of the book, Generation M; Mir Ali, MD, medical director of MemorialCare Surgical Weight Loss Center at Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, CA; Michael Snyder, MD, medical director of HCA HealthONE Denver Center for Weight Loss and bariatric surgery at Rose Medical Center and in-house obesity specialist at FuturHealth Because living a healthy lifestyle is all about good habits, setting yourself up for success now will have a big impact on your future. Here's why weight management can be harder as you get into menopause, plus what you can do to reverse unwanted weight gain. It's important to point out that you can gain weight during any phase of life, and that's probably something you're well aware of. But perimenopausal weight gain is slightly different. During perimenopause, you're navigating a bunch of hormonal shifts (more on those in a sec) and that can mess with your ability to lose weight or even maintain your existing weight. While you're likely to gain weight during any phase of life if you start eating more than you did in the past or having more high-calorie foods, perimenopausal weight gain is different. With perimenopausal weight gain, you may find that you gain weight by eating the same way you always have, and that it's harder to lose that additional weight than it was in the past, Dr. Ali says. While people gain weight differently, you may be more likely to gain it around your midsection when it's due to perimenopause, according to the Mayo Clinic. There are a few things that happen during menopause that can make weight management more difficult. 'Women gain weight in this time of their life due to hormone shifts,' Dr. Shepherd says. That includes a drop in estrogen and an increase in the stress hormone cortisol, she says. That increase in cortisol can impact how your body breaks down nutrients and may even encourage your body to store more fat, she says. At the same time, you may also have a drop in your body's levels of testosterone, says Michael Snyder, MD, medical director of HCA HealthONE Denver Center for Weight Loss and bariatric surgery at Rose Medical Center and in-house obesity specialist at FuturHealth. Those hormonal shifts can impact how fat is broken down in your body, as well as where it's stored, he says. To make things even more complicated, women tend to lose muscle mass and bone density during this time because of a combination of hormonal shifts and aging, Dr. Snyder says. 'That can make it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it,' he says. 'Factors like stress, sleep disturbances, and changes in activity levels can also contribute.' All of the experts we spoke to recommended increasing your protein intake to combat perimenopausal weight gain. That's because protein helps support muscle mass, which can rev up your metabolism, Dr. Shepherd says. It also lowers the odds you'll lose muscle mass, which can help to support bone health as you get older, Dr. Ali says. Protein is also filling, decreasing the risk you'll get hungry between meals and snacks and overeat, Dr. Ali says. The exact amount of protein you need varies depending on other factors in your life. However, research suggests that people who are active need 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of protein to support tissue growth. That breaks down to about 30 to 35 grams of protein per meal for most people. 'Consider both plant and animal forms of protein,' Dr. Shepherd says. Meaning, poultry, eggs, beans, nuts—they're all on the menu. Fiber isn't as hot a macronutrient lately as protein, but it's important. You can get fiber from foods that are traditionally viewed as "healthy," like fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. Fiber can do a few things, and one is to support a good gut microbiome. 'As we age, the gut microbiome weakens and therefore fiber intake should increase,' Dr. Shepherd says. Fiber is crucial for helping you to maintain a healthy weight, since it's filling and can help to regulate your blood sugar levels, lowering the chances you'll experience a blood sugar crash and feel hangry as a result, Dr. Shepherd says. Another perk: Fiber helps support good digestive health, i.e. it helps you poop. Dr. Ali recommends trying to load up non-starchy vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, cucumbers, and carrots, along with plenty of protein. Not only are vegetables packed with nutrients that can support your health as you get older, but they're also high in fiber and can help to fill you up, too, Dr. Ali says. Vegetables can also help to crowd out less healthy options from your plate. Only about five percent of Americans get enough fiber, so having more of this macronutrient should be a goal. (Most women need to have at about 25 grams a day.) Just ramp up your fiber intake slowly—otherwise, you run the risk of dealing with uncomfortable bloating and gas. While Dr. Ali says that weight management is largely about diet, he also stresses the importance of being physically active. Not only is exercise good for your overall health, it can help to maintain muscle and bone mass, he says. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone gets at least 150 minutes of moderate- to vigorous-intensity exercise every week. Being active in any form is great, but weight-bearing exercises are especially good for bone strength, Dr. Shepherd points out. That's why it's good to have things like running, stair climbing, hiking, and dancing in the mix. Every person is different, but the CDC suggests aiming to do those 150 minutes of exercise a week (which can be broken down into 30 minutes, five days a week), along with two days of muscle-strengthening activity. That basically breaks down to five days of cardio, with strength training in the mix, too. This is something a lot of women are missing. As we just mentioned, the CDC currently recommends having at least two days of muscle-strengthening activity each week in your workout routine, and Dr. Shepherd says this is especially important as you near menopause—along with ramping up your protein intake. 'Make sure weight training is also a part of the increase in protein,' she says. 'As much as one can fit into a weekly routine is more important than none at all.' Why? It can help to build muscle mass and support the muscle mass you already have. 'If you lose muscle mass, you need fewer calories to maintain your weight,' Dr. Ali says. 'But increasing muscle mass can help.' Not only can muscle mass support your bones and increase strength as you get older, it also helps keep your metabolism working well, he says. Your body doesn't need added sugars, which are sugars that are added to foods. (Those are different from naturally-occurring sugars, which are found in things like fruit, by the way.) Added sugars provide empty calories and can lead to weight gain, Dr. Ali points out. Not only that, sugar can be habit-forming, and eating a lot of added sugar now can make it tough to cut it out down the road. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends limiting calories from added sugars to less than 10 percent of your total calories per day. (So, if you eat a 2,000-calorie diet, that means having more than 200 of your calories from added sugars, or 50 grams.) But the American Heart Association (AHA) takes things a step farther, recommending that women have no more than 100 calories a day from sugar or 25 grams. Dr. Snyder lists sleep as a crucial factor in lowering the odds of perimenopausal weight gain. Logging at least seven hours of quality sleep a night can do a few things for you. One is that it can help you to wake up feeling refreshed, providing plenty of energy to do things like maintain your activity level and workout routine. Another is that it can help to control levels of the stress hormone cortisol in your body. You're also more likely to overeat when you're wiped out, making it important to get rest when you can, Dr. Ali says. Unfortunately, the hormonal changes that happen in perimenopause and menopause can mess with your ability to get good sleep. But having a consistent exercise routine, eating a good diet, and limiting alcohol can help support good sleep, Dr. Shepherd says. (If you're really struggling, it's important to check in with a physician or sleep specialist to see if something else could be behind your sleep issues.) Doctors stress that you're not doomed to gain weight in perimenopause and menopause. And, even if you notice the scale creeping up, it's still possible to lose it, Dr. Ali says. Taking up these habits now—even in your 20s and 30s—can help set you up for successful weight management down the road. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
29-01-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
New study reveals what Americans perceive as ideal weight
The average American woman weighs about 170 pounds and stands about 5 feet, 4 inches tall. But it's important to remember that these averages are mathematical calculations. They don't represent what's typical or healthy for everybody There are so many factors that make all bodies unique—size, shape, proportions—that comparing one body to others is rarely helpful. In fact, it often leads to negative self-talk and other harmful behaviors (thanks, Instagram). That said, it may help to know you're not the only one thinking about your weight. According to a 2024 study from Hims & Hers, The Shape of America, 83% of Americans are not at the weight they'd like to be. The average amount of weight folks are looking to lose? 42 pounds. Hers shares more about the average weight for women in the United States, what women believe the ideal weight is, and the factors that influence the ability to hit a goal weight. To learn more about how Americans think about weight and weight loss, Hims & Hers conducted a nationally-representative study of 5,000 adults, revealing the often contradictory beliefs held about weight, including what people believe is normal for themselves and others. The survey found that women believe the ideal weight for women is 139 pounds. But when asked about their personal ideal weight, the answer was different. When speaking about themselves, the average goal weight for women in this study was 144 pounds. What's up with these discrepancies? According to Dr. Jessica Shepherd, chief medical officer at Hers, there are a few factors at play. "There can be discrepancies between actual and ideal weights due to gender, ethnicity, genetics, environment, and lifestyle, and these differences should not be a source of stress as the ideal body weight does not apply to everyone the same." "Body image," she says, "is a multifaceted construct that includes positive and negative attitudes, thoughts, and behaviors." American women tend to weigh more than women in other parts of the world. There are many reasons for this, such as dietary choices, cultural norms, and socioeconomic factors that influence food accessibility. The average body weight of women in America has been steadily increasing over the past few decades. According to national surveys, about 42% of U.S. women have obesity and an additional 27% are overweight. Though the U.S. may be leading the charge, one in eight adults around the world now live with obesity. And many more (43%) are overweight. Percent of women who are overweight in 2022 (by region) Western Pacific (China, Japan, Australia, and more) — 33.5% South-East Asia (India, Indonesia, Thailand, and more) — 35.1% Africa — 36.2% Europe — 56.3% Eastern Mediterranean (Middle East, Northeast Africa) — 62.5% The Americas — 68.7% Body mass index, or BMI, is a measurement used to assess a person's body weight in relation to how tall they are. It's calculated by dividing a person's weight in kilograms by their height in meters, squared. (kg/m2). While not perfect, this simple calculation is used as a standard way to measure where people fall in comparison to "normal," which in this context more or less means "healthy." It's intended to provide insight into the risk of developing certain weight-related chronic conditions. The medical community uses BMI values to diagnose conditions like obesity. The standard weight categories include: Underweight: BMI of 18.5 or under Normal weight: BMI under 25 Overweight: BMI under 30 Obesity: BMI of 30 or greater BMI has limitations and may not accurately reflect your overall health or body composition. The measurement doesn't take into account factors like body fat percentage, lean muscle mass, or physical fitness. Body composition can also differ between men, women, and people of different races and ethnicities. Sometimes it feels like everything we do today has an impact on how our pants will fit next week. But things are rarely so simple. When it comes to weight, there are a lot of factors at play. : Changes in estrogen and progesterone levels throughout the menstrual cycle, pregnancy, and menopause can affect metabolism and weight regulation. Genetics: Genes can influence body composition, where people tend to hang onto fat, and even how quickly they burn calories. Nutrition: Eating habits, the nutritional quality of our diets, and portion sizes impact weight management. Physical activity: Cardio and strength training affect calorie expenditure, muscle mass, and overall body composition. Stress: Chronic stress can lead to emotional eating, hormonal imbalances, and changes in appetite. Sleep: Poor sleep quality can disrupt hormone levels, metabolism, and appetite regulation. Medical conditions: Certain conditions like PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), thyroid disorders, and insulin resistance can affect weight regulation in women. Medications: Medications like antidepressants, birth control pills, and corticosteroids may cause weight fluctuations. Social and cultural factors: Eating habits are partly shaped by societal norms, cultural attitudes towards food, and peer/familial influence. Mental health: Emotional well-being, self-esteem, and coping mechanisms all play a role in weight maintenance. Healthy weight management is a lifelong process. Lifestyle habits are essential to achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of weight-related health problems like obesity and heart disease. So, toss the weight chart in the trash and consider these tips instead. Focus on nutrients Nutrition is one of the most important components of your overall health and wellness. Not only does a nutrient-rich diet provide the vitamins, minerals, fiber, antioxidants, and macronutrients (protein, fats, and carbs) needed, but it also supports healthy weight management. A few things to keep in mind: Eat mostly whole foods. These include fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, and other lean proteins. They provide an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, and they're rich in fiber, which helps to feel full. Avoid ultra-processed foods. Examples include soda, candy, and packaged snack foods. These tend to be high in saturated fat, sodium, and added sugar. Focus on nutrients versus calories. Rather than being laser-focused on counting calories, put nutrients first. Get better sleep Not getting enough sleep will wreck anyone, especially if it's an ongoing problem. Did you know that sleep deprivation does more than just make you cranky? Lack of sleep makes people more prone to sugar cravings and mindless eating. Experts say adults should get seven to nine hours of quality sleep per night. If you don't normally sleep very well, try these tips to catch more Zzz's: Follow a consistent sleep-wake schedule. Adopt a calming nighttime routine you can look forward to each evening. Dress in breathable PJs and use comfy bedding. Avoid screens close to bedtime, as the blue light can interfere with melatonin production and make it harder to fall asleep. Use black-out curtains or a white noise machine. Talk to your healthcare provider if you think you have sleep apnea. Move your body Physical activity is important for supporting overall health and achieving weight goals. Regular exercise helps you burn extra calories, lose weight loss, and put on muscle. For general health, experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise weekly, plus strength training twice per week. For weight loss goals, this increases to 200-300 minutes per week. In addition to getting your steps in, here are a few things to try: Swimming Biking Jogging Briskly walking Doing martial arts Playing basketball Joining a group fitness class High-intensity interval training Using resistance bands, dumbbells, weight machines, or bodyweight exercise Consider weight loss medications When daily lifestyle habits alone aren't enough to promote weight loss, many people find success with weight loss medications. Intended to be used alongside a healthy diet and exercise, some of the most popular and effective weight loss medications include: GLP-1 receptor agonists: These work by mimicking the effects of the naturally occurring hormone GLP-1, which regulates appetite and food intake. By activating GLP-1 receptors in the brain, GLP-1s help promote fullness, slow digestion, and may also decrease cravings. Examples include liraglutide (Saxenda®) and semaglutide (Wegovy® or Ozempic®). Metformin: Metformin is primarily used to improve blood sugar regulation in type 2 diabetes, but it may also support weight loss by decreasing appetite and reducing the absorption of glucose from food in the intestines. Contrave®: This is a combination of bupropion (an antidepressant and aid to quit smoking) and naltrexone (used for alcohol and opioid dependence). Bupropion helps reduce appetite and cravings, while naltrexone counteracts the effects of certain brain chemicals involved in food reward. Topiramate: This is often used as an antiepileptic medication but can support weight loss by suppressing appetite and promoting feelings of fullness. It may also influence your brain's reward pathways, potentially reducing cravings for high-calorie foods. Nurture social connections People were never meant to do life alone, and this includes the journey to achieving a healthy weight. Social connections provide support, accountability, and encouragement. Research shows that people who have these types of networks experience better weight loss outcomes. Joining a group fitness community or jogging with friends builds a sense of community and encouragement, making it easier to stay committed to healthy habits. Having a strong social network can help provide outlets for healthier stress management. It's also a place to share experiences, successes, and challenges with those on similar journeys. Drink more water Stay hydrated, primarily with plain water. Water is essential for health but also helps to keep fuller for longer. Try to sip on water throughout the day to keep cravings at bay. If your goal is weight loss, drink water right before or during meals to help promote fullness and prevent overeating. If you get tired of plain water, try these: Plain seltzer water Herbal tea Water naturally flavored with cucumber, lemon slices, or raspberries and mint leaves. There's no "ideal" weight calculation that encompasses every woman's body type or health requirements. At the end of the day, health is more than a number on the scale. While unrealistic beauty standards and societal pressures are pervasive, that doesn't mean we have to accept them as the norm when examining the optimal weight range for women. If you're on a mission to find the healthiest weight for you: Prioritize healthy everyday habits. This means improving sleep, staying hydrated, nourishing your social connections, boosting your nutrition, and moving your body regularly. Seek outside support. Friends and family can be excellent support systems, but sometimes outside health experts can also be beneficial. Perhaps it makes sense for you to talk to a dietitian or connect with one of our licensed healthcare providers. Focus on you. Weight management is personal. What's most important is understanding your unique body. This story was produced by Hers and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
