Rethink everything you've been told about hormones – with Dr Louise Newson

Age Better with Liz Earle

May 22, 2026 59 mins

About

Thought hormones were just for period regulation and menopause support? In this eye-opening conversation, GP and hormone specialist Dr Louise Newson joins Liz to explain the surprising role progesterone, oestrogen and testosterone play in everything from brain health to inflammation.


They discuss the misinformation that’s letting women down, the crucial difference between body-identical and synthetic hormones, and why progesterone may be far more powerful than most of us realise.


Louise also explains why cholesterol is essential for hormone production, how testosterone is a natural painkiller, and the questions every midlife woman should feel confident asking about her health and treatment options.


In this episode:

·     The difference between synthetic and bioidentical hormones

·     The truth about cholesterol

·     Why progesterone might play a role in mental health care

·     Why the contraceptive pill needs updating

·     Prescribing testosterone as a natural painkiller

·     Why post-hysterectomy women still need progesterone

 

More from Louise:

·     Follow Louise on Instagram

·     Order Louise’s book, The Power of Hormones

·     Get tickets for Louise’s tour Breaking The Cycle: The Power of Hormones

 

Get in touch with a question for Liz:

·     Email: podcast@lizearlewellbeing.com

·     WhatsApp: 07518 471 846

 

More from Liz:

·     Order Liz's new book – How to Age

·     A Better Second Half

·     Follow Liz on Instagram

·     Follow Liz Earle Wellbeing on Instagram

 

Host: Liz Earle

Producer: Anouszka Tate (Fresh Air Production) 

Social Media Manager: Naomi van Geelen

Content Writer: Lucy Parley

Head of Brand: Ellie Smith


Some links may be affiliate links, which help support the show at no extra cost to you. Read our Affiliate Policy for more information.



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Information

Episode

44

Date

May 22, 2026

Length

59 mins
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Age Better with Liz Earle

I’m on a mission to change the conversation around ageing. Women’s health – particularly as we age – has been underfunded and overlooked for far too long. And frankly, it’s time we pushed back. Through this podcast, I want to share the knowledge and tools that can help you thrive in later life by taking […]

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