Perimenopause refers to the stage before menopause. During these years, hormones are in a state of constant fluctuation. These fluctuating hormones cause a number of unpleasant symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, headaches, fatigue, depression, and mood swings.
One of the symptoms of menopause is bloating and weight gain. This can be a difficult symptom to cope with during the perimenopause years. Here are 4 tips that can help.
Double-Check Your Diet
It may be that your diet isn't as healthy as you think it is. Make sure you are eating healthy; have three meals a day and don't snack in between meals; ensure you are getting a healthy balance of protein and carbohydrates; eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, and avoid alcohol.
Up Your Exercise Routine
If you feel as though you are putting on weight, it's time to rethink your exercise routine. Try to do some cardiovascular exercises three times a week or more. Upping your exercise regimen will directly combat weight gain from hormone fluctuations.
New Clothes
To an extent, perimenopausal weight gain is something that cannot always be changed by dieting and you may have to accept the changes that your body experiences. Treat yourself to something new, something that fits you well, and that flatters your new body. Be proud of your new clothes, your body, and embrace perimenopause.
Time for Yourself
It is important to pay attention to your emotional well-being during perimenopause. Take time for yourself, spend an hour doing something you enjoy - read a book, take a walk, have a bath. Making a little time for yourself can reduce stress, a large factor in weight gain.
There are many uncomfortable symptoms that are associated with the perimenopause phase. Click on the link below to learn about different treatments for perimenopause.
Sources
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007.
- Hopkins, Virginia. Lee, John R. M.D. What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause. New York: Warner Books Inc., 1996.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
- Martin, Raquel. The Estrogen Alternative. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000.