By Lisa Edmondson, Women’s Health and Hormonal Lead, Nurse, Master Holistic Health Coach, Global Health, Takapuna, Auckland & Online
At Global Health in Takapuna and online, we’ve seen a steady rise in the number of women coming to us with the same set of health concerns: hormones that feel out of balance, emotional ups and downs, fatigue that just won’t shift, and deeper issues tied to adrenal stress and protein synthesis.
These women are not sick in the traditional sense. They’re functional, high-performing and often holding down careers, raising families, or managing complex responsibilities. But inside, they’re exhausted, frustrated, and often wondering why their body feels like it’s not working the way it used to.
Most of our clients are around 45 years old, and while their stories are unique, the patterns are not.
So the question we’ve been asking is: Why now? Why are we seeing such an increase in these specific health struggles among women in this age group?
Let’s unpack what’s really going on – and how we can help.
What’s Behind the Rise in Hormonal and Adrenal Issues?
Hormonal shifts in the 40s aren’t new – perimenopause and menopause are natural phases of life. But what we’re seeing is a more intense experience of symptoms, happening earlier and lasting longer than in previous generations. Many women are noticing changes in their sleep, mood, skin, energy, digestion and weight – and they’re not getting clear answers.
Several environmental and lifestyle factors are making these changes more pronounced:
1. Chronic stress and high-pressure environments
Modern life is demanding. From corporate roles and caregiving to managing households and finances, many women are living in a state of constant output. When the nervous system stays in ‘fight or flight’ for too long, the body begins to prioritise survival over hormone balance, digestion, and repair.
This can lead to adrenal depletion, sleep disruption, and eventually, burnout – all of which directly impact hormonal health and emotional regulation.
2. Environmental toxins and endocrine disruptors
We’re exposed to more chemicals than ever before. Additives in food, pesticides on produce, fragrances in personal care, and plastics in packaging all contribute to a higher toxic load. Many of these chemicals act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormone production, detox pathways, and immune function.
Over time, these exposures add up – often presenting as unexplained fatigue, irritability, low libido, irregular cycles, or weight that won’t shift.
3. Nutritional deficits and protein breakdown
Protein isn’t just about muscles – it’s essential for hormone production, immune support, detoxification, and neurotransmitter balance. Yet many women don’t consume enough bioavailable protein or struggle to digest and assimilate it properly.
Without adequate protein synthesis, the body may struggle to repair itself, maintain muscle mass, or produce the hormones it needs – contributing to a deeper sense of depletion.
4. Tech overload and EMF exposure
As technology becomes more integrated into daily life, we’re seeing increasing concerns around the impact of electromagnetic frequencies (EMFs) on sleep quality, circadian rhythms, and cellular stress. While the science is still evolving, many clients report improved energy and mood after reducing screen time or EMF exposure – especially at night.
5. Time scarcity and overstimulation
Even activities like driving – once a passive part of the day – are becoming more stressful due to traffic congestion, delays, and overstimulation. There’s little room left for rest, reflection, or connection to self. The nervous system never truly gets a break.
All of these factors contribute to a cumulative stress burden that the body eventually expresses through symptoms.
Why Traditional Approaches Often Fall Short
Many women we speak to have already seen GPs, had blood tests, or tried supplements. They’re told everything is “normal,” yet they still feel far from well.
Conventional models often focus on symptom management rather than addressing the root cause. That’s where natural, holistic care stands apart.
At Global Health, we don’t just look at your hormone levels or nutrient markers in isolation. We consider your entire health history, lifestyle, emotional wellbeing, and environment to understand what’s driving the imbalance.
Our Whole Systems Approach to Healing
We offer something different. Our approach is built on the belief that the body is interconnected, and that true healing comes from addressing the whole person – not just the part that’s hurting.
Here’s what makes Global Health different:
✦ Individualised Wellness Programmes
No two clients are the same, so no two plans are either. We create custom protocols that may include nutrition, lifestyle changes, herbal support, functional testing, and mindset tools – all tailored to your current life stage and goals.
✦ Behaviour Change Support
We help you make meaningful, sustainable changes – step by step. We know that education without guidance often leads to frustration, so we walk alongside you, adjusting your plan as needed.
✦ Long-Term Partnership
Healing takes time. Just like weight gain or energy depletion doesn’t happen overnight, reversing these patterns takes commitment, determination and support. We’re here with you the whole way – not just for one appointment.
✦ Professional Backing
We’ve supported over 10,000 clients, and we work closely with some of the top health professionals in their respective fields. This collaborative network ensures you receive evidence-informed, integrated care that complements any other treatments you may be undergoing.
What Real Change Looks Like
When women begin working with us, they often tell us they feel “seen for the first time.” With time and the right support, they start to experience:
- More stable energy throughout the day
- Improved mood and emotional resilience
- Better sleep and fewer disruptions
- Clearer skin, brighter eyes, and deeper confidence
- A sense of returning to themselves
These outcomes don’t come from a quick fix. They come from restoring the systems of the body – step by step – with patience, understanding, and the right tools.
You Don’t Have to Navigate This Alone
You may be reading this and thinking, “That sounds like me.” If so, know that you’re not alone – and there’s a way forward.
You don’t need to self-diagnose, endlessly Google, or bounce from practitioner to practitioner looking for answers.
At Global Health, we’re here to help you feel supported, understood, and empowered in your health journey – whether you’re seeing us in our clinic in Takapuna, Auckland or working with us online.
We invite you to take the first step. Book a consultation and explore what’s possible for your health.
Ready to get to the root of your symptoms and feel like yourself again?
Book your first appointment with us today – online or in-person.