Are You in Menopause?

There comes a time when we enter into a wonderful dimension of grace, at least that is what it could be. It is a time when we can reevaluate life and prioritize the things that are important to us. For many, it is a time for reflection and also of excitement…It is time to do what you want to do!

That being said, there are many (oh, so many) changes occurring physically and emotionally. It can be difficult to see the wonder of this stage of life when it feels like your body has completely turned against you!

We've all heard the frightening possibilities of what can happen to our bodies during menopause:

• weight gain
• dry skin
• low energy
• depression
• poor memory
• anxiety
• Osteoporosis
• vanishing libido
• vaginal dryness
• hair growing in the wrong places
• hair loss where you'd like to keep it
• uncontrollable mood swings
• unbearable hot flashes and night sweats –WHEW!

I’m sure you could probably add more to this list from your own experiences. It’s no wonder most women dread, or even fear, this time in their life. Keeping your body balanced and your symptoms at bay can seem quite daunting. In my experience as a health professional, slacking up on taking care of myself, even for short periods of time, can open the door to these uninvited guests!

To maintain your energy and your sanity during this time, here are some things to keep in mind to stay healthy both physically and emotionally:

• Keep your hormones balanced. The good news is that we no longer have to rely on estrogen replacement therapy, synthetic progesterone (progestin) and antidepressants to alleviate the symptoms of menopause.
• Keep your adrenals and thyroid strong. When you are well rested and eating healthy foods, you will much closer to eliminating menopausal symptoms. Your adrenals manufacture hormones, so it's important to keep them well nourished. They also do best when provided certain nutrients.
• Minerals (lots of minerals), vitamins B and Vitamin C are the ones you will want to provide in abundance.  Start by eating lots of green leafy vegetables to give your adrenals just what they're craving.  If green leafy vegetables don’t appeal to you or are difficult to fit in, find a high quality supplement to provide those nutrients.
• Restore energy. Taking minerals in a variety of different forms is crucial for healthy adrenals, specifically humic and fulvic plant based minerals.
• Avoid adrenal-robbing carbs in the form of sugary treats, protein bars, grains, breads, alcohol and caffeine.
• Relax, Rest and Sleep! Don't sabotage your adrenals with poor sleep habits. Wind down, get comfy and prepare for your nights' slumber as early as possible. You'll give your cells a chance to rejuvenate and your emotions a chance to check in while dreaming.