Estrogen is a critical hormone that plays a vital role in women’s health, particularly during the reproductive years. It is responsible for regulating various bodily functions, including the menstrual cycle, bone density, and cardiovascular health. As women approach menopause, estrogen levels begin to decline, leading to a range of physical and emotional symptoms such as hot flashes, mood swings, and weight gain. In this book, the author emphasizes the neuroprotective effects of estrogen, particularly in maintaining cognitive function and mental clarity, and its role in protecting against oxidative stress. The book explores how the loss of estrogen during menopause can affect nearly every system in the body, from skin elasticity to heart health.

Galveston Diet refers to a nutrition plan Dr. Haver designed specifically for women in midlife, aimed at addressing hormonal changes and the weight gain that often accompanies menopause. Unlike traditional diets, which focus solely on calorie restriction, the Galveston Diet emphasizes anti-inflammatory foods, intermittent fasting, and hormone-balancing nutrients to improve overall health during menopause. Dr. Haver advocates for a diet rich in whole foods, healthy fats, lean proteins, and fiber while minimizing processed foods and sugars that can exacerbate inflammation and weight gain.