Is HRT The Answer To Menopause?
As we enter our 40’s and beyond, we start to notice changes in our menstrual cycle. They become irregular. Some times they’re heavier. Some times they’re lighter. We may notice more moodiness, bloating, and clotting than usual. Often sleep becomes an issue.
During perimenopause and menopause, our ovaries are cooling off and starting to shut down. Because of this, they decrease and then stop their production of estrogen. Now, this doesn’t mean that suddenly we don’t need estrogen to be healthy. And it doesn’t necessarily mean that you should start HRT either. Instead, consider the fact that your body is designed and equipped to handle this stage of a life and it has a back up plan. You may not realize that your adrenal glands (two small endocrine glands that sit on top of your kidneys) and your fat cells take over estrogen production in your body when your ovaries begin to slow down and then stop their hormone production. This is so important to understand. Because, healthy adrenal glands and the right amount of fat cells (too many or too little can lead to an over or under production of estrogen) enable your body to go through this season of life without all of the common symptoms of menopause that can be so disruptive and difficult to deal with- like night sweats, hot flashes, depression, anxiety, weight gain, etc.
Here’s the biggest issue. Your adrenal glands’ primary responsibility is to handle stress in the body. If you’re overly stressed for extended periods of time, your adrenal glands have to work harder to support your body and maintain balance. Then, they often become weakened or fatigued. Weakened adrenal glands can’t properly handle the extra burden placed on them during perimenopause and menopause. They may not be able to pick up the slack for your ovaries. That’s when the symptoms of menopause show up.
So what can you do? First, self care is important- make time during your week to do things that reduce your stress- exercise, a walk outside, yoga, and meditation are all good examples. Make sure blood sugar stays balanced. When your blood sugar goes up and down, your adrenals work harder to keep things balanced. A simple way to keep blood sugar balanced is by eating little to no carbohydrates at breakfast and lunch. Save the majority of your carbohydrate intake for dinner. And, make sure your carbs come from healthy sources like starchy vegetables (potato, sweet potato, and squash), fruit, and jasmine rice. Also, adaptogens and herbal tonics can be fabulous for nourishing the adrenal glands. One of my personal favorites is ashwaganda. Rhodiola and lemon balm can be very beneficial as well.
Always keep in mind that the body is designed to heal and be well when it’s treated properly. And, it’s capable of seeing you through menopause in a healthy and balanced way. If you’re currently in perimenopause or menopause, remember that this is just a season of life and it too will pass. So, try to breathe deeply, stay calm, and trust your body. This is a normal phase of every woman’s life and our bodies know what to do. If you want more information about balancing hormones naturally during perimenopause, check out our FREE WEBINAR HERE!