What’s New in Depression

  • |

    Inflammation and insulin resistance partially mediate the relationship between age at menopause and depression in postmenopausal women

    This study looked at more than 7,000 women over 60 in the US (NHANES 2005–2020) to understand how the age at menopause relates to depression in later life, and whether inflammation and insulin resistance help explain that link.​ What the…

  • | | | | |

    Perimenopause as a neurological transition state

    Estrogen-mediated regulation of the bioenergetic system: estrogen signalling supports and sustains glucose metabolism in the brain by regulating expression of glucose transporters, which results in increased glucose uptake, and by stimulating glucose metabolism, mitochondrial oxidative…

  • | | |

    Moderate-severe hot flashes significantly increase depression risk

    A new study of more than 2,000 perimenopausal and menopausal women showed that moderate-severe vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes or night sweats) were an independent and significant risk factor for moderate-severe depression. Researchers explored the controversial…

From my Substack

I write regularly about menopause, symptoms, biology, and the wider story women are so often not told. If you want to go deeper into the thinking behind my work, you can start here.

Book a discovery call and in 30 minutes you can:

  • Understand the root causes behind your specific symptoms
  • Learn whether functional medicine is right for your situation
  • Get a clear picture of what testing and treatment could look like
  • Ask any questions — no commitment, no pressure
  • Leave with actionable clarity, regardless of next steps
book a discovery call

30 minutes · Free · No obligation

Not ready to book? Follow my thinking on Substack

Sandra Ishkanes  Natural Menopause Specialist based in Brighton, serving clients worldwide via Online Consultations   
BSc Molecular Biology (King’s College London) | DipION | Functional Medicine Practitioner
Registered member, Association of Naturopathic Practitioners (ANP) – the UK professional body for accredited naturopathic and functional medicine practitioners. ANP members hold accredited qualifications, carry professional indemnity insurance, and follow a strict code of ethics.

© 2026 Sandra Ishkanes  ·  sandraishkanes.co.uk

Privacy policy  ·  Terms & Conditions  ·  Terms of Use  ·  Disclaimer

Approach  ·  Work With Me  ·  Case Studies  ·  Meet Sandra  ·  Writing  ·  Book a Discovery Call

The information provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Sandra Ishkanes is a Functional Medicine Practitioner and Molecular Biologist, not a medical doctor. Always seek the advice of your GP or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before making any changes to your diet, lifestyle, or supplement regimen—especially if you are currently taking prescription medication or HRT. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website.