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What to eat during perimenopause and menopause
October 16, 2023
Diet plays an important role in controlling the symptoms that characterize menopause and the period before it, also known as perimenopause. A balanced diet can mitigate many of the effects that the end of the fertile phase has on the physiological balances in the female body.
What is Perimenopause?
The entry into menopause is accompanied by a transition phase, perimenopause, during which some physiological disorders occur.
This period of a woman's life, also known as the climacteric, is characterized by significant changes in hormone levels and the decline in ovarian activity, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles. If menstruation (amenorrhea) does not occur for at least twelve consecutive months, the woman is considered to be in full menopause.
What to eat during perimenopause?
In severe cases, the symptoms of perimenopause can be alleviated with medication (as prescribed by a doctor). Alternatively, it may be enough to follow a well-balanced diet aimed primarily at preventing weight gain.
In this context, it is advisable to avoid high-fat foods, as well as excessive consumption of alcohol and tobacco, and instead favor fruits, vegetables and dairy products (for better vitamin D intake). In addition, some natural remedies such as green tea, passionflower, rhodiola and cimicifuga can be used in the form of teas or supplements.
What to eat during menopause?
A woman's diet during menopause should be as healthy and balanced as possible and contain enough fruits, vegetables and yogurt.
It is also important to drink plenty of water regularly to maintain good hydration and to include proteins in the diet, giving preference to lean meats and fish. Foods particularly recommended, especially for relieving hot flashes, include soy and red clover.
Some substances that may be useful for moderating menopausal symptoms (isoflavones and phytoestrogens) can also be taken in supplement form. On the other hand, salt consumption should be moderated (use iodized salt), as should the consumption of sweets, coffee and alcohol. A healthy diet should also include other "good habits" such as regular physical activity and quitting smoking.