Perimenopause & Weight Gain

Did you know that women can start to experience perimenopause as early as their mid-30s, but most often it starts in women ages 40 to 45. So, what are the signs of perimenopause?

• Irregular periods

• Heavy periods

• Increased anxiety

• Irritability

• Swinging energy levels

• Hot flushes

• Joint pain

• And…….weight gain, particularly around the middle.

What’s with the weight gain..?

In the early part of perimenopause, the ovaries often produce extremely high levels of oestrogen due to feedback systems between the ovaries, pituitary and hypothalamus…which is why women in their early 40’s start businesses, climb the corporate ladder & run marathons.

But combine this with the life situation women in their 40’s often find themselves in……teenage children, aging parents, work demands & relationship challenges….which can increase stress and cortisol levels, and that’s when it all starts to go sideways.

High cortisol impacts blood sugar regulation and insulin levels in the body. Insulin causes fat storage, particularly around the abdomen/mid-section & leads to the secretion of other inflammatory compounds in the body that drive high cholesterol, high blood pressure, & fatty liver.

And the frustration that I see every day in clinic is that all the things that used to work for us to maintain a healthy weight and good health go out the window. It’s like our bodies are betraying us. For the majority, intermittent fasting, HIIT training and keto diets make the weight gain, energy & inflammation levels worse.

What can you do to support your body during this time?

• Regulate & support your nervous system (see my website for a blog about this)

• Eating three meals a day…no snacking

• Eat breakfast within an hour of waking

• Make sure you’re having enough protein with every meal

• Limit the sugar, caffeine, simple carbs & alcohol

• Hydration - 35mls/kg of body weight/day.

• Download my free habit tracker “Healthy Habits for Happy Hormones” to get started.

Why see a naturopath for support with perimenopause?

I understand the roller coaster ride that perimenopause is and what it’s like to feel like you’re out of control with your health/body/life…because I’ve been there.

My detective like skills & over 25yrs of experience in both conventional & complementary health care mean that I get to the root cause of your health & wellness concerns.

If you’re ready to commit to improving your health, mood, energy, and vitality to step into the most amazing version of yourself, book a discovery call or appointment online today.