Menopause is a significant transition in a woman's life, often occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of menstrual cycles and is confirmed when a woman hasn't had a period for 12 consecutive months. This phase brings about many changes, some visible and some not, deeply affecting a woman's body and overall health. Understanding what happens to your body during menopause and how you can support yourself through nutrition and lifestyle adjustments is crucial for maintaining health and well-being during and after this transition.
During menopause, the body undergoes profound hormonal shifts, primarily involving decreases in estrogen and progesterone production by the ovaries. These hormones play vital roles not only in reproductive health but also in maintaining the balance and function of various bodily systems, including the cardiovascular and skeletal systems. As these hormone levels fluctuate and eventually decline, women may experience symptoms that include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings and sleep disturbances.
In the midst of navigating life’s responsibilities, such as career demands, family care, and social obligations, health might slip to a second, third, or even last priority. Lifestyle factors, including chronic stress, poor diet, lack of exercise, and excessive alcohol consumption, can exacerbate menopausal symptoms and contribute to a decline in overall health. Furthermore, this period of life often coincides with increasing responsibilities and stressors, making women more susceptible to neglecting their health.
One critical area impacted by menopause is the endocrine system, which regulates hormones. Eating well and at the right times can help support this system, making symptoms less severe. Balanced, nutrient-rich diets can stabilise blood sugar levels, reduce inflammation, and support metabolic health, thereby aiding the endocrine system in functioning more cohesively.
Another aspect to consider is the role of body composition in menopausal health. Increased visceral fat and higher body fat percentage can disrupt the endocrine system further and exacerbate symptoms. Visceral fat, the fat stored around abdominal organs, is particularly concerning because it secretes inflammatory substances that can affect hormone balance. Metabolic health must be considered and addressed, as attributing all symptoms to menopause alone oversimplifies the complexity of a woman's body and its needs during this time.
In conclusion, while menopause is a natural biological process, its impact on the body is significant and multifaceted. Prioritising health through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, stress management, and adequate sleep can mitigate many of the adverse effects associated with menopause. Rather than solely focusing on the hormonal shifts, a holistic approach that considers the interconnectedness of our bodily systems offers a pathway to not just survive but thrive during menopause and beyond. This is something we guide our members through during our Metabolic Reboot program. The realisation that many of these symptoms can be reduced can be both empowering and life changing.
Menopause & Metabolic health: how attributing all symptoms to menopause alone oversimplifies the complexity of a woman's body
