Menopause Diet Advice

The Menopause is a natural transitional period of a woman’s life that marks the end of menstrual cycles. It can last for several years, and the symptoms can be extremely uncomfortable. Although you can’t stop this process from happening, there are a few foods that are thought to alleviate the symptoms.

Water

The decrease in oestrogen levels causes dehydration and dry skin. Getting through eight glasses of water every day should help restore your skin’s moisture as well as decreasing bloating that occurs with your hormonal changes.

Calcium

The menopause also causes a decrease in calcium levels, which can lead to brittle bones. Try to consider calcium-rich foods like milk and yogurt, or take calcium supplements instead to help balance these levels.

Vitamin D

A good amount of vitamin D is critical to maintaining healthy bones during the menopause. Usually this comes from the sun, but many health experts advise that women take vitamin D supplements, especially in months when you spend less time outside. Bodyline’s Vitamin D Spray has been created by in-house pharmacists and is available for just £12.00.

Fruit and Vegetables

As you get older your metabolism slows down, which can cause weight gain for many women – one of the most dreaded symptoms of the menopause! Filling up on low-calorie foods like fruit and vegetables is a great way of getting the nutrients you need whilst minimising calorie intake.

Whole Grains

Foods like oatmeal, quinoa, barley and brown rice contain lots of B vitamins which help to boost energy levels, manage stress and maintain a healthy digestive system. You can also supplement your B vitamin intake with Bodyline’s B12 Spray, available to purchase in clinic and online for just £12.00.

Whilst all of these foods are said to help relieve the symptoms, there are a few that you should avoid too. Stay clear of stimulants like alcohol, sugar, caffeine and spicy foods as they trigger hot flushes, increase mood swings and may even aggravate urinary incontinence.

It’s best to come at this with a gentle approach – introduce the healthy foods into your diet as soon as you can and avoid the others as a general rule of thumb. The earlier you start to make changes, the more prepared your body will be.