Do you often feel like there is a new diet trend every week leaving you feeling confused about what is healthiest to eat? The total U.S. weight loss industry has grown to a historic peak of $90 billion in 2023. The diet industry wants us to be confused and doubt our own intuition. Listen, what we put into our bodies plays a pivoting role in our health and especially how we handle the perimenopause into menopause transition. The truth is it really can be as simple as real, whole foods that nourish your body, clear the brain, give you energy, reduce bloating, keep your glucose steady, lower inflammation, and ultimately free of chronic diseases. When I cut back on ultra-processed foods, ate more at each meal with a balanced plate so much changed for me. I was able to stop taking a chronic medication, no longer felt shaky & hangry, & had more energy. Still don't know where to start? Here is a list of 10 healthy foods for weight loss and healthy eating. I also provide the
Did you know that movement plays a critical role in perimenopause and menopause? Although it helps with mood and weight loss, the main goal here is to build muscle, improve insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation. We all have a gradual loss of 3-5% of muscle mass per year starting around age 30. For women, menopause is associated with an additional "rapid decline in muscle mass" due to the loss of estrogen. Of course, all hope isn't lost. We can build and maintain muscle in perimenopause and menopause. There are several non-exercise strategies like eating enough protein, especially the amino acid leucine for example. The best way to build and maintain muscle is to move your body especially with resistance or strength training. Resistance movement can improve hot flashes, cognition and brain health and so many more benefits. According to a study in 2019, just one hour per week of strength training can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke by up to 70% (reminder: