Good things come to those who wait...

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03/Aug/2026

Most of us expect to feel tired now and again. Life is busy. Between work, family, travel and everything else that fills our calendars, it is hardly surprising that we sometimes run out of steam.

However, there is a distinct difference between feeling tired after a busy week and feeling exhausted all the time.

If you are waking up unrefreshed, relying on coffee to get through the day, or finding that your energy just is not what it used to be, it is worth asking why. Many people put it down to stress, getting older or simply having too much on their plate. Sometimes that is true: but often there is more to the story.

At Formula Health, our award-winning multidisciplinary medical practice does not see fatigue as something to simply “put up with”. We see it as your body’s way of telling you that something deserves a closer look. Through our advanced integrated medicine approach, we combine elite sports diagnostics with personalised clinical care to uncover the root causes of persistent exhaustion.

Why Fatigue Rarely Has a Single Cause

One of the reasons persistent fatigue can be frustrating is that it rarely has a single cause.

Formula Health practitioner reviewing integrated health data and diagnostics

Sometimes it is a vitamin or iron deficiency. Sometimes it is an underactive thyroid. For many women, hormonal changes during perimenopause or menopause can have a profound impact on energy levels. Poor sleep, chronic stress, anxiety, low mood, recovering from a viral illness or underlying conditions such as diabetes can all play a part too.

Often, it is a combination of several factors rather than one obvious problem.

That is why a quick appointment or a standard, surface-level set of blood tests does not always provide the whole picture. Standard reference ranges in conventional medicine can leave patients feeling dismissed when their results fall within broad parameters, yet they still feel profoundly unwell.

Good Medicine Starts with Listening

One of the biggest frustrations we hear from patients is, “My blood tests were normal, but I still don’t feel right.”

Normal results do not always explain how someone feels.

Before arranging any investigations at our clinic, our specialists spend time getting to know you. When did your symptoms begin? Has anything changed recently? How are you sleeping? Are you under more stress than usual? Have your hormones changed? Is your energy affecting your work, exercise or family life?

These conversations matter because they help us decide what needs investigating: and just as importantly, what does not. Our approach prioritises thorough clinical consultation to align diagnostic testing with your lived experience. You can explore our comprehensive range of services on our services page.

Looking Beneath the Surface

If diagnostic investigations are appropriate, we recommend them based on your precise symptoms and medical history, rather than deploying a one-size-fits-all approach.

Depending on your individual circumstances, we may assess areas such as:

  • Iron levels and ferritin status
  • Comprehensive thyroid function panels
  • Specific vitamin and mineral deficiencies (including Vitamin D, B12 and folate)
  • Blood sugar regulation and metabolic markers
  • Hormonal profiles relevant to men and women

The goal is not to order more tests. It is to order the right tests. By utilising targeted diagnostics, we build a clearer, clinically actionable picture of your health.

Formula Health practitioner in consultation assessing personalised medical data

Finding the Right Solution

Once we understand what is contributing to your fatigue, we formulate a treatment plan that is entirely tailored to your biology.

For some individuals, correcting an iron deficiency or optimising thyroid function is enough to make a significant difference. Others benefit from addressing hormone health, improving sleep architectures, managing chronic stress more effectively or making targeted lifestyle and nutritional adjustments. Sometimes, it is a combination of several small, strategic changes that yields the most substantial clinical impact.

There is no one-size-fits-all treatment because there is no one-size-fits-all patient. Our multidisciplinary team works collaboratively to ensure every aspect of your physiological wellbeing is supported under one roof.

Reclaiming Your Vitality

Many people live with fatigue for months: or even years: because they assume it is simply an inevitable part of getting older or leading a demanding life.

It isn’t always.

If you are constantly running on empty, your body may be trying to signal an imbalance. At Formula Health, we take the time to understand what is truly going on beneath the surface, so together we can find the cause: not just manage the symptoms.

A radiant, healthy individual symbolising vitality and biological optimisation

Because good health is not simply about avoiding illness. It is about having the sustained energy to enjoy your life, optimise your performance, and maintain long-term vitality.

If persistent fatigue has become your normal, we would be delighted to help you find out why. Contact our team today to arrange a comprehensive consultation at our practice.


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29/Jul/2026

Two experts. One complete, personalised approach to Women’s Health. 👥✨
Too often, women’s health concerns—especially around hormone changes, irregular cycles, and menopause—are overlooked or rushed. At Formula Health, we are changing the narrative by combining the best of advanced functional lifestyle medicine with dedicated medical GP care.




Want to learn more about Nutrigenetic screening?

Read more about the benefits of Nutrigenetic analysis and the wide range of health insights you can gain by visiting the DNA service page on our website where you can download a free information brochure and learn about the 1-to-1 Nutritional Therapist support packages that we offer alongside our test kits.


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Keep up with the latest news, events and offers from Formula Health by joining us on social media.

Don’t forget to keep in touch, we love hearing from you and seeing pictures of our clients progress!


SERVICES AT FORMULA HEALTH TO HELP WITH HORMONE HEALTH

  • Functional Medicine
  • Nutritional Therapies
  • Acupuncture
  • Private GP

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14/Jul/2026

The menopause transition represents a significant physiological shift. For many women, navigating the perimenopause and menopause involves managing a complex array of symptoms while filtering through a substantial volume of conflicting medical information. At Formula Health, we provide clarity through expert Private GP consultations and advanced diagnostic screening, ensuring our patients receive the most sophisticated care available.

Deconstructing the Historical Context of Hormone Replacement Therapy

To understand the current landscape of menopause care, one must examine the legacy of the 2002 Women's Health Initiative (WHI) study. This trial significantly influenced public and professional perception of Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) for over two decades. The study initially suggested an increased risk of cardiovascular events and breast cancer associated with certain HRT regimens. However, modern medical analysis has identified critical limitations in that data, particularly regarding the age of the participants and the types of hormones utilised.

Participants in the 2002 WHI trial were, on average, 63 years old and often more than a decade post-menopause. Furthermore, the study utilised older, non-identical preparations, such as conjugated equine oestrogens and synthetic progestogens. Current medical consensus, supported by the British Menopause Society (BMS), confirms that for the majority of women under the age of 60, or within ten years of the onset of menopause, the benefits of starting HRT far outweigh the risks.

Modern HRT focuses on symptom management while simultaneously protecting long-term bone density and cardiovascular health. The evolution of "body-identical" HRT has been the primary catalyst in this shift towards safer, more effective hormonal support.

A professional clinical close-up of a medical vial with a background of green leaves, representing plant-derived body-identical hormones.

Defining Body-Identical HRT

Body-identical HRT, also formally referred to as regulated bio-identical HRT, utilises hormones that are molecularly identical to those produced naturally by the human ovaries. These hormones are derived from plant precursors, such as diosgenin found in yams, and are synthesised in a laboratory to perfectly match the human chemical structure.

The primary advantage of body-identical hormones is their biochemical precision. Because the molecules are identical to endogenous hormones, they bind seamlessly to the body’s cellular receptors. This "lock and key" mechanism ensures optimal physiological response with a reduced risk of the adverse effects often associated with synthetic alternatives.

The Essential Components of a Body-Identical Regimen

A sophisticated body-identical treatment plan typically prioritises two key components:

  1. Transdermal Oestrogen (17β-estradiol): Delivered via clinical-grade gels, sprays, or adhesive skin patches, transdermal oestrogen is absorbed directly into the systemic circulation. This delivery method bypasses the "first-pass" metabolism in the liver. Consequently, transdermal oestrogen does not increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (blood clots) or stroke, making it a superior choice for long-term safety.
  2. Micronised Progesterone: Often prescribed under the brand name Utrogestan, this is a natural progesterone that has been micronised for better absorption. Unlike older synthetic progestins, micronised progesterone has a neutral impact on cardiovascular health and metabolic function. It is also associated with a superior safety profile regarding breast health and is frequently utilised to improve sleep quality in menopausal patients.

The Critical Distinction: Regulated vs. Compounded HRT

It is imperative to distinguish between regulated body-identical HRT and "compounded" bio-identical HRT. At Formula Health, we only prescribe regulated, pharmaceutical-grade body-identical hormones that are licensed by the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).

Compounded bio-identical hormones (cBHRT) are custom-mixed in private pharmacies and often lack rigorous safety testing, batch consistency, and regulatory oversight. The British Menopause Society and other leading medical bodies explicitly advise against the use of compounded products due to concerns regarding purity, potency, and the lack of evidence-based safety data. By utilising regulated body-identical HRT, we ensure our patients receive standardised, high-quality medication that adheres to the strictest clinical guidelines.

An abstract representation of hormonal balance with teal and green light paths and subtle medical symbols.

The Formula Health Advantage: A Multidisciplinary Approach

Traditional healthcare models often rely on brief, symptom-focused appointments that fail to address the multifaceted nature of the menopause. A standard ten-minute consultation is insufficient for unpicking the complex web of hormonal, psychological, and lifestyle factors involved in this transition.

Formula Health operates on a paradigm of Advanced Integrated Medicine. Our private GP consultations are extended, allowing our clinicians the necessary time to conduct a comprehensive assessment of your medical history, symptoms, and long-term health goals. We do not apply standardised protocols; instead, we formulate bespoke treatment strategies adapted to the individual’s biological requirements.

Integrated Clinical Services for Menopause Support

Our multidisciplinary team provides a holistic framework for managing menopausal health:

  • Advanced Diagnostics: We utilise DNA screening and comprehensive blood analysis to identify specific hormonal imbalances and nutritional deficiencies.
  • Osteopathy and Bone Health: Menopause significantly impacts bone density. Our expert osteopaths provide tailored interventions to mitigate the risk of osteoporosis and maintain musculoskeletal integrity.
  • Personalised Nutrition: Our nutrition specialists design bespoke dietary plans to manage metabolic changes and support hormonal health.
  • Performance Optimisation: Drawing from our F1 heritage, we apply elite sports science to help women maintain their physical and cognitive performance throughout the menopause.
A modern, minimalist medical consultation room at Formula Health, reflecting a premium and professional healthcare atmosphere.

Precision Medicine for Every Woman

The objective of modern menopause care is the restoration of vitality and the preservation of long-term health. At Formula Health, we believe that every woman deserves access to the most advanced medical treatments and the time required to implement them effectively.

Whether your management plan involves initiating a regulated body-identical HRT regimen, optimising your micronutrient intake, or utilising advanced therapies like Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy to support cellular repair, our approach is always evidence-led and patient-centred.

We invite you to experience the Formula Health difference. By combining cutting-edge technology with a profound understanding of human biology, we provide a pathway through the menopause that is safe, effective, and entirely personalised to you.



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17/Feb/2024

Hormones are responsible for a wide variety of processes within the human body (in both males and females). Imbalances in these crucial chemicals can have profound effects on our health and are responsible for many symptoms that our patients frequently report in the Formula Health clinic. Luckily, advances in health technology have made analysing these chemical messengers possible for everyone (whether or not you have been diagnosed with a particular condition) and at Formula Health we are on a mission to improve access to these valuable insights and to empower our community to take proactive and preventative action as a result.

If you have any questions or concerns about your hormonal health or would like to have an exploratory discussion with one of our practitioners, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

#hormonehealth #functionalmedicine #nutritionaltherapy #womenshealth #menopause #thyroid #endocrine #menshealth #hormones #stress #formulahealth #formulahealthconsultancy #berkshire #reading #pangbourne 
#naturalhealth #acupuncture #reflexology #homeopathy #mindfulness #InstaHealth #berkshireLifestyle #nutrigenetics #DNA  #dutchtest




Want to learn more about Nutrigenetic screening?

Read more about the benefits of Nutrigenetic analysis and the wide range of health insights you can gain by visiting the DNA service page on our website where you can download a free information brochure and learn about the 1-to-1 Nutritional Therapist support packages that we offer alongside our test kits.


Follow us on Instagram

Keep up with the latest news, events and offers from Formula Health by joining us on social media.

Don’t forget to keep in touch, we love hearing from you and seeing pictures of our clients progress!


SERVICES AT FORMULA HEALTH TO HELP WITH HORMONE HEALTH

  • Functional Medicine
  • Nutritional Therapies
  • Acupuncture
  • Homeopathy

BOOK NOW


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30/Aug/2022

Did you know there are plenty of naturopathic and holistic treatments for Menopause?

There is currently a shortage of HRT in the UK and we want you to know that you can manage symptoms using ancient techniques, that will not only support you in balancing your hormones naturally, but may also help you to balance other areas of your body that may help you if you wish to avoid taking medications.

Win-win right?

Keep scrolling to see how acupuncture can help support you through the menopause.

#formulahealth #formulahealthconsultancy #berkshire #reading #pangbourne #naturalhealth #acupuncturereading #reflexologyreading #homeopathyreading #nutritionaltherapy #mindfulness #cranialosteopathy #osteopathyreading #qigongreading #yogareading #pilatesreading #mindfulness #fitnesspangbourne #fitnessreading #InstaHealth #berkshireLifestyle #nutrigenetics #dnaformula #formulahealthapp #selfcareformula




Want to learn more about Nutrigenetic screening?

Read more about the benefits of Nutrigenetic analysis and the wide range of health insights you can gain by visiting the DNA service page on our website where you can download a free information brochure and learn about the 1-to-1 Nutritional Therapist support packages that we offer alongside our test kits.


Follow us on Instagram

Keep up with the latest news, events and offers from Formula Health by joining us on social media.

Don’t forget to keep in touch, we love hearing from you and seeing pictures of our clients progress!


BOOK NOW
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TREATMENTS TO HELP SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE AT FORMULA HEALTH

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  • Acupuncture
  • Kinesiology
  • Osteopathy
  • Nutrition


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24/Mar/2022

BMJ menopause acupuncture

Linked to reductions in hot flushes, sweating, mood swings, sleep disturbance, skin and hair problems

A brief course of acupuncture may help to ease troublesome menopausal symptoms, suggests a small study published in the online journal BMJ Open.

Among women dealing with moderate to severe symptoms, acupuncture was associated with reductions in hot flushes, excess sweating, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and skin and hair problems.

The findings prompt the researchers to conclude that acupuncture offers “a realistic” treatment option for women who can’t, or don’t want to, use hormone replacement therapy (HRT).

Menopausal symptoms are common, and depending on their severity, can have a major impact on quality of life, health and wellbeing, as well as productivity.

Hot flushes are one of the most common symptoms, and these can go on for several years. But others include heavy sweating, emotional vulnerability, sleep disturbances, fatigue, ‘fuzzy’ brain, joint pain, vaginal dryness and reduced sex drive.

Hormonal and other drugs can treat the various symptoms, but they are not without side effects. And the evidence for other non-pharmacological approaches, such as exercise, relaxation, and herbal/dietary remedies, isn’t very convincing, say the researchers.

Previous research suggests that acupuncture might be helpful, but design flaws or quality issues have undermined the findings, say the researchers.

In a bid to address this, they randomly allocated 70 menopausal women who met their inclusion criteria to either five weeks of standardised Western medical acupuncture, using pre-defined acupuncture points, or no acupuncture until after six weeks.

Each weekly session lasted 15 minutes, and was delivered by Danish family doctors from nine different general practices, who had additionally trained in acupuncture, and had been practising it for an average of 14 years.

Each participant completed a validated Meno Scores (MSQ) questionnaire–designed to measure outcomes from the patient’s perspective–before their first session and then again after 3, 6, 8, 11 and 26 weeks.

The MSQ comprised 11 graded scales for each of: hot flushes; day and night sweats; general sweating; sleep disturbance; emotional vulnerability; memory changes; skin and hair problems; physical symptoms; abdominal symptoms; urinary and vaginal symptoms; and fatigue.

At six weeks most (80%) of the women in the acupuncture group, said that they felt that the sessions had helped them.

And compared with those who had not been given acupuncture, they were significantly less troubled by hot flushes–a difference that was already apparent after 3 weeks of ‘treatment’.

Statistically significant differences also emerged between the two groups in the severity/frequency of day and night sweats, general sweating, sleep disturbances, emotional and physical symptoms, and skin and hair problems.

The drop-out rate was low, with just one woman failing to complete all five acupuncture sessions, and no serious side effects were reported.

The researchers acknowledge that the treatment period lasted just five weeks and that a major difficulty in all acupuncture trials is the lack of a proper comparator.

This means that a placebo effect can’t be ruled out, and further discussions are warranted about what level of evidence is therefore acceptable, particularly when it’s impossible to accurately explain the underlying factors behind the results, they add.

Nevertheless, they suggest that their findings show that a brief course of acupuncture by suitably trained professionals is feasible in routine primary care for both doctors and patients.

“Not all menopausal women need or request treatment, and we believe this acupuncture intervention is most relevant to women who experience moderate-to-severe menopausal symptoms,” they write.

“Acupuncture for menopausal symptoms is a realistic option for women who cannot, or do not wish to use [hormone therapy],” they conclude.

[Ends]

19/02/2019

Research: Efficacy of a standardised acupuncture approach for women with bothersome menopausal symptoms: a pragmatic randomised study in primary care (the ACOM study) doi 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023637
Journal: BMJ Open

https://bmjopen.bmj.com/lookup/doi/10.1136/bmjopen-2018-023637


Liz has worked as the Lead Complementary Therapist in a Cancer charity and has over 20 years experience as a Nurse and Acupuncturist treating both adults and children

Click HERE to see Liz’s full profile on our website

Or Click HERE to read more about what an Acupuncture consultation entails

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info@formulahealth.co.uk

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