Balancing Hormones is Critical in Perimenopause
Hormones, our body's chemical messengers, play a vital role in regulating various functions such as metabolism, growth, mood, and reproductive health. When these hormones are in balance, everything runs smoothly. However, as you may be discovering during perimenopause—the transitional phase before menopause—hormonal imbalances can become quite exaggerated, leading to a range of health issues and psychological impacts.
The Top Three Common Causes of Hormonal Imbalances During Perimenopause
1. Stress: Chronic stress aka extreme multi-tasking can disrupt the balance of cortisol and dopamine, impacting overall health and exacerbating perimenopausal symptoms.
2. Diet: Poor nutrition, especially diets high in sugar and processed foods, can lead to insulin and leptin resistance which ultimately leads to weight gain
3. Lack of Sleep: Sleep deprivation affects the regulation of all hormones, including those that control hunger and stress, which can be particularly challenging during perimenopause.
Symptoms of Hormonal Imbalance During Perimenopause
Hormonal imbalances during perimenopause can manifest in numerous ways:
Unexplained weight gain or loss
Fatigue and low energy levels
Mood swings, anxiety, or depression
Irregular menstrual cycles or changes in menstrual flow
Increased digestive issues
Sleep disturbances, such as insomnia or night sweats
Hair loss or thinning
It’s Not You: The Psychological Impact of Hormonal Imbalance
The psychological effects of hormonal imbalances during perimenopause can be profound. Mood swings, anxiety, rage and depression are common and can significantly affect daily life and overall well-being especially during your menstrual cycles. The uncertainty and intensity of these emotional changes can be distressing, making it essential to address hormonal balance for mental health stability.
So achieving and maintaining hormonal balance during perimenopause involves a combination of lifestyle changes:
Switch up your diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber can help regulate hormones.
Move your body: Physical activity helps manage weight, reduce stress, and alleviate some perimenopausal symptoms.
Calm your Mind: Techniques such as yoga, meditation, and deep-breathing exercises even for 20 mins a day can help reduce stress levels.
Sleep is a priority: Prioritizing good sleep hygiene starting at 8pm is crucial for the proper functioning of hormonal systems, particularly during perimenopause.
Don’t be afraid of asking questions and see if Hormone replacement therapy, using herbs or other prescription medications is the right tool to support you.
We hope this article has helped you learn more about the advantages of looking deeper into your perimenopause hormone status, and if you have more questions, we’d love to hear from you. Schedule a consultation with our team of experts at Potentia MedSpa in Lafayette, California, or call us at 510 230 2282.
We are the only Functional Aesthetics Medspa in the San Francisco Bay Area offering a combination of medical expertise, innovative technology in skin care, and holistic support for midlife hormone changes.