Episode 160

Published July 7, 2026

In this episode, Dr. Margaret Beeson joins host Dr. Jaclyn Smeaton to discuss bone health, estrogen decline during perimenopause, and the importance of family history as a predictor of bone health and risk of osteoporosis.

Dr. Beeson and Dr. Smeaton also discuss:

• How estrogen decline contributes to bone loss
• Genetics and family history as the strongest predictors of risk
• The need for DEXA scans to occur earlier and establish a baseline of bone density
• The impact of estrogen and progesterone therapy on bone health and how DUTCH testing captures those hormone levels
• Systemic issues in primary care that can make proactive screening difficult

Key Moments

0:47 Episode Introduction

2:55 The Importance of Bone Health and GLP-1s

5:56 Understanding Osteoporosis and Its Impact

9:03 The Role of Hormones in Bone Density

11:53 Current Research and Innovations in Bone Health

14:54 Identifying Risk Factors for Osteoporosis

17:49 Standard Guidelines vs. Personalized Care

20:40 The Cost of Delayed Diagnosis and Treatment

23:55 Genetics and Osteoporosis Risk Factors

26:57 DUTCH Courses: Introduction To Menopausal HRT

27:43 Hormonal Changes During Perimenopause

31:47 Controversies in Hormone Therapy

36:36 The Need for Regular Monitoring

41:21 Barriers to Osteoporosis Screening

46:29 Future Directions in Bone Health Conversations

About our speaker

Dr. Margaret Beeson is the founder of Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic in Billings, Montana, with more than 40 years of experience in integrative medicine. With a background spanning nursing, midwifery, physician-assistant work, and naturopathic primary care, she brings a comprehensive, integrative approach to wellness. Dr. Beeson is also the co-founder and President of the Naturopathic Education and Research Consortium (NERC) and has been recognized nationally for her leadership in advancing naturopathic medicine. 

Show Notes

Learn more about Dr. Margaret Beeson and her practice, Yellowstone Naturopathic Clinic.

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