Women’s Health Unwrapped
Episode 140:
Understanding Osteoporosis: Risks and prevention for midlife women
Did you know that 1 in 2 women in the UK will be diagnosed with osteoporosis and that breaking a bone increases your risk of death from any cause?
“The truth is, we can’t afford to wait until something goes wrong. Building strength now—through movement, nutrition, and awareness—gives us freedom later. This isn’t about fear. It’s about choosing to prioritise the life you want to keep living.”
— Nicola Farndell
“I thought strength training was for athletes or influencers. But after my diagnosis of osteopenia, I realised it’s for every woman who wants to stay mobile, independent and vibrant. We need to stop thinking strength is optional. It’s our foundation for living well.”
— Dr Nancy Allen
In this episode of Women’s Health Unwrapped:
Living long and strong is our focus today in this enlightening conversation with GP and menopause expert Dr. Nancy Allen to explore the often-hidden health risks that come with menopause and midlife, and how you can take control before it’s too late.
Nancy shares her personal experience of entering menopause early, being diagnosed with osteopenia, and the powerful lifestyle changes she made to turn things around. It’s a real, honest conversation about health, ageing, and the simple habits that can shape the rest of your life.
If you’ve never given your bone health a second (or even first) thought, or found yourself putting off looking after yourself until things feel urgent, this conversation is for you.
Here’s what we unwrap in this episode:
Why osteoporosis is a major, often-overlooked risk for women post-menopause.
How your family history may hold vital clues about your future health.
The lifestyle changes Nancy made to reverse her osteopenia (and how you can too).
The role of HRT in protecting your bones and your heart.
Why improving your health span, not just your lifespan, matters more than ever.
The truth about protein, strength training, and daily movement in midlife.
The link between alcohol, nutrition and how we actually feel (and age).
About Dr Nancy Allen:
Dr. Nancy Allen is a GP and menopause specialist with a passion for empowering women through every stage of midlife and beyond. She is a respected member of the British Menopause Society, the Royal College of General Practitioners, the European Menopause and Andropause Society, and the International Society of Gynaecological Endocrinology.
Having experienced early menopause herself, Dr. Allen deeply understands the daily challenges women face during this transition. Her personal journey has shaped her compassionate, holistic approach to care. With a strong foundation in medical expertise and a commitment to treating the whole person, she is dedicated to helping women feel their best—physically, mentally, and emotionally—through the per menopause and menopause.
Connect with Dr Nancy:
Ready to start supporting your body in midlife - before anything breaks?
Your bone health, energy, and strength are shaped by the choices you make now - not just later.
Download my free Perimenopause Guide to help you understand what’s really going on in your body, and how to make simple, supportive shifts that build long-term wellbeing.
You don’t need to wait for a crisis to start caring for yourself differently.
Download the free guide now and take your first step.
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