What Happens When Menopause Meets Diabetes

Hot flashes, blood sugar swings, brain fog... is it menopause, diabetes, or both?In this episode of the TCOYD Podcast, Dr. Steve Edelman is joined by renowned menopause expert Dr. Cindy Stuenkel, endocrinologist and Professor Emerita at UC San Diego, for an insightful conversation about how menopause affects women living with diabetes. Together, they explain why menopause is much more than a normal stage of aging. It's a major metabolic transition that can influence blood sugar management, insulin resistance, heart health, sleep, mood, and overall quality of life. The conversation explores what actually happens during perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, why hormonal fluctuations can make glucose management more challenging, and how continuous glucose monitoring can help distinguish hot flashes from hypoglycemia. Dr. Edelman and Dr. Stuenkel also discuss the latest evidence on hormone replacement therapy, newer non-hormonal treatment options, the importance of protecting heart health, and practical strategies to help women navigate this stage of life with greater confidence. Whether you're living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes, approaching menopause, currently experiencing it, or supporting someone who is, this episode provides practical guidance and evidence-based information to help you feel more prepared. Key Topics:What is perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause?How hormonal changes affect blood sugar and insulin resistanceWhy menopause can increase glucose variability in women with diabetesThe difference between hot flashes and hypoglycemiaHow continuous glucose monitoring can help during menopauseMetabolic changes that occur during the menopause transitionWhy cardiovascular risk increases after menopauseThe connection between menopause, weight gain, and abdominal fatGLP-1 medications and menopauseThe latest recommendations on hormone replacement therapyNew non-hormonal treatments for hot flashesSleep, mood, brain fog, and quality of life during menopauseHeart health strategies for women living with diabetesHow partners can better support someone going through menopauseTrusted menopause resources and when to seek medical care✨ Subscribe for practical diabetes management tips, technology updates, and treatment breakthroughs that help people with diabetes live healthier, more flexible lives.More diabetes resources:Website: tcoyd.orgBlog: tcoyd.org/blogPodcast: tcoydthepodcast.transistor.fmInstagram:   / tcoydFacebook:   / tcoydStay connected! Sign up for our monthly newsletter here!Support TCOYD's educational programs: tcoyd.org/donate ★ Support this podcast ★