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By Sally KalosW hen we spoke with Dr. Donna Becker, owner, and physician at the Enhancement of Life Center, she shared insights into recent medical advancements. Dr. Becker highlighted the transformative potential of new technologies in monitoring laboratory values, including hormone and vitamin levels, foreseeing breakthrough solutions for age related issues and a stronger emphasison restoration.With over thirty years of experience in hormone therapy and restorative health, Dr. Becker’s approach focuses on addressing aging aspects through detailed lab work and personalized treatment plans. She emphasized the individualized approach to hormone replacement therapy, noting that some physicians may be hesitant to prescribe testosterone or estradiol therapy for men and women suffering from symptoms and low hormone levels.Dr. Becker stressed the importance of finding a doctor who understands the significance of proper blood work, symptoms, and prescribing hormones according to blood work levels: While many gynecologists now prescribe hormones for menopausal women, and many urologists prescribe testosterone for men, Dr. Becker pointed out that there is still a stigma attached to prescribing hormones for people older than 60 or 65. She believes that just as we need thyroid hormone all our lives, we also need sex hormones.Addressing the issue of low libido in women, labeled Hyposexual Desire Disorder (HSDD), Dr. Becker explained that the standard treatment, which is non-medical approaches such as counseling, psychotherapy, and cognitive behavioral therapy, is often recommended. FDA-approved medications for HSDD, but only in premenopausal women, include Flibanserin, followed by Bremelanotide, which is also not indicated for postmenopausal patients. Disagreeing with the official FDA-approved approach for off-label recommendations, which suggests testosterone and, if that doesn’t work, two different antidepressants, Dr. Becker emphasized a detailed history and physical examination for each patient, but testosterone very much increases libido according to many happy patients The blood levels need to be carefully monitored, side effects discussed.Dr. Becker highlighted the importance of nutrition in anti-aging, advocating for eating lower on the food chain, consuming less meat, chicken, and dairy, to avoid toxins such as saturated fat, antibiotics, and bacterial contamination. She recommended a vegan diet, stating that beans can supply adequate protein. Dr. Becker highlighted many studies linking increased meat consumption with heart disease and its reversal with an all-whole food, plant-based diet. She recommended consuming real food- based fiber like flaxseed meal, which has been a humanfood since 3000 BC and has been shown to improve gut health, reduce cholesterol, reduce inflammation, and even lower blood pressure. She cautioned, however, that many brands of flaxseed meal have been found to be contaminated with cadmium, advising consumers to choose brands with lower cadmium levels.One of the most remarkable recent findings in medicine involves an injectable medication called semaglutide (Ozempic), originally used to treat Type II diabetes. It has shown astonishing results in weight loss, with up to 12 pounds per month reported in obese patients. Dr. Becker emphasized that even those who have struggled with obesity for a long time or have failed gastric bypass surgeries have experienced significant weight loss with this medication. However, side effects may include nausea, vomiting, and constipation among others. However, with a proper diet and careful monitoring of fluid and food intake, these side effects may be managed.Those on these new medications have also had a decrease in alcohol cravings. Some patients reported that they no longer wanted to drink alcohol after starting semaglutide. Another beneficial side effect of this medication, belonging to the GLP-1 class of drugs, is its ability to improve fatty liver disease. Hepatic steatosis improved in 70% of patients in one published study.Dr. Becker emphasized that while the medication can be effective, it is not a stand-alone solution. A low-calorie, low- fat diet and regular physical activity, such as walking 10,000 steps per day, are essential components of the treatment plan. Additionally, maintaining balanced hormones is crucial for optimal results.On the topic of hair loss, a combination of minoxidil and finasteride has shown remarkable results in promoting hair growth in individuals with severe age- or stress-related hair loss. This specially compounded medication is available only with a doctor’s prescription. The compounded capsule of Min-Fin may have side effects of lowering blood pressure, so it should be taken at night. As with all medications there are potential other side effects including facial hair growth and others which must be discussed and managed.Looking ahead, Dr. Becker believes that medicine will continue to evolve rapidly, with significant enhancements already available and more on the horizon. She highlighted the potential of machine-generated stem cells, which could revolutionize regenerative medicine by stimulating the body to regrow parts such as heart and brain cells. Stem cells derived from donated placentas are already being used for specific injuries and could potentially be usedfor more complex conditions like brain injuries or heart regeneration in the near future. The stem cell therapies are only offered by specialists in physical therapy mostly now, and by some aesthetic practitioners.In conclusion, Dr. Becker emphasized the importance of staying healthy, noting that the most significant cause of bankruptcy is unpaid medical bills. She stressed the importance of personalized treatments, thorough investigation into symptoms, and a holistic approach to healthcare. Hormone therapy, in particular, is a key focus of Dr. Becker’s practice, as she believes it is crucial until new medical advancements become more accessible. Her approach has been praised by patients for its effectiveness and personalized care, with many noting significant improvements in their health and quality of life under her care.Call to book your FREE 15-minute consultation. Enhancement of LifeDr. Donna Becker 14603 Huebner Rd, Suite 2601 San Antonio, TX 78230 210-545-5224 https://antiagingsa.comAdvancementsDr. Becker emphasized the importance of staying healthy and stressed the importanceof personalized treatments, thorough investigation into symptoms, and a holistic approach to healthcare. Hormone therapy, in particular, is a key focus of Dr. Becker’s practice.in Medicine:A Conversation withDr. Donna Becker on Hormone Therapy, Anti-Aging Nutrition, and Cutting-Edge Treatments8www.heloteshighlights.comApril 2024