Peri-menopause refers to the years leading up to menopause, typically starting in a woman’s 40s but sometimes earlier. During this phase, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen, leading to changes in menstrual cycles and the onset of symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flashes and night sweats, mood swings or increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, weight gain or changes in body composition, decreased libido, and vaginal dryness. These symptoms can vary in intensity and duration, but natural approaches can help ease the transition. Some tips for a balanced transition:
Support Hormonal Balance with Nutrition
- Phytoestrogen: Add foods like flaxseed and lentils, which contain plant compounds that mimic estrogen’s effects.
- Healthy Fats: Omega-3s found in fatty fish, walnuts, and chia seeds help reduce inflammation and support brain health.
- Cruciferous Vegetables: Broccoli, cauliflower, and kale assist in detoxifying excess hormones.
- Limit Sugar & Processed Foods: These can exacerbate symptoms like mood swings and fatigue.
Prioritize Gut Health
A healthy gut aids in hormone metabolism. Add fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut, or consider a quality probiotic.
Supplemental Support & Herbal Allies
- Ovary/Uterus Support: Designed to regulate hormone production and improve symptoms associated with hormonal fluctuations. Ingredients like Black Cohosh help with hot flashes and night sweats, while Chasteberry helps regulate menstrual cycles and alleviate mood swings.
- 7-Keto DHEA & Pregnenolone: 7-Keto DHEA boosts basal metabolic rate, supports fat loss, and enhances immune function without affecting hormone levels. Pregnenolone, known as the “mother of all hormones,” supports brain health, memory, focus, and stress resilience while promoting hormonal balance and joint and skin health.
- Female Support Cream: Contains wild yam to help balance hormones.
- Rhodiola/Ashwagandha: This combination supports adrenal health, stress resilience, and may help regulate cortisol levels.
Movement, Exercise, & Stress Management
- Strength Training: Helps maintain bone density and muscle mass.
- Yoga & Pilates: Improve flexibility, reduce stress, and promote better sleep.
- Cardio: Boosts mood and supports cardiovascular health.
- Mindfulness Practices: Meditation, deep breathing, or journaling can reduce anxiety and improve emotional balance.
Sleep Hygiene
Stick to a consistent sleep schedule, creating a calming bedtime routine with dim lights, herbal teas, or a warm bath. Avoid screens an hour before bed to support melatonin production.
While peri-menopause is natural, severe symptoms can impact your quality of life. If you experience persistent depression or anxiety, heavy or prolonged bleeding, severe hot flashes or insomnia, or unexplained weight changes, it’s time to consult with a healthcare professional.
Join us for a live session where we dive deeper into natural solutions for peri-menopause. Wednesday, February 12th from 12:15 PM – 12:45 PM at our clinic or over Zoom, Instagram Live, or Facebook Live.
Scents You Should Know: EO 40 Lime
In the 17th century, English sailors ate limes to prevent scurvy, a disease caused by a deficiency of vitamin C. Soon afterward, the English were dubbed “limeys,” a colorful nickname that has survived throughout all these years.
Fruity and refreshing, limes have been a kitchen staple for centuries. It is believed that limes were first introduced to the Americas by 16th-century Portuguese navigators. The lime soon became a favorite fruit, both for its therapeutic value and taste. Traditionally, lime has been used as a remedy for indigestion, heartburn, and nausea. It also has cooling effects on fevers and can help ease coughs and various respiratory disorders. Lime oil is also useful as part of a beauty regimen, as its astringent properties help clear oily skin and acne. Plus, because lime oil also promotes good circulation, it is often used to help relieve varicose veins.
Last but not least, lime oil has a wonderfully uplifting scent, with the power to re-energize the spirit. Recently, it has been used to treat anorexia. It is a powerful digestive stimulant that may help with the loss of appetite. Try these recipes using lime essential oil.
For help releasing toxins from your body:
- 5 drops EO 29 Grapefruit essential oil
- 5 drops EO 23 Fennel essential oil
- 5 drops EO 55 Patchouli essential oil
- 5 drops EO 40 Lime essential oil
- 2 ounces carrier oil of your choice
Mix well and massage into the body.
For cellulite or varicose veins:
Mix three (3) drops of EO 40 Lime essential oil into a carrier oil of your choice. Mix well and massage into cellulite or varicose veins. Repeat daily for optimum results.
What’s Up Doc?
Q: How do I know if I am experiencing signs of perimenopause?
A: Perimenopause is the transitional phase leading up to menopause, marked by fluctuating hormone levels which can cause various symptoms. These changes are age-dependent, influenced by family history, genetics, and lifestyle, and can occur earlier if patients have had surgical interventions such as a hysterectomy.
Symptoms you may experience:
- Irregular menstrual cycles (longer, shorter, heavier, lighter periods)
- Hot flashes
- Night sweats
- Mood swings
- Difficulty sleeping
- Vaginal dryness
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Trouble concentrating
Lab work and symptoms are assessed by our Nurse Practitioner. Treatments include lifestyle changes like regular exercise, a healthy diet, and stress management to help alleviate symptoms. Depending on severity, hormone therapy (HRT) or bioidentical hormone balancing during certain phases of the perimenopausal cycle may be considered.