Jennings Holistic Health

Menopause...

...IN THE SUMMER HEAT

I think it’s fair to say that summer is probably the favourite season for many of us. Warm temperatures, beach picnics, backyard barbecues and all the fun and frivolity that comes with it.

But there comes a time in a woman’s life when summer can be regarded as the season of dread. The internal furnace switches on and suddenly the warm sunshine activates hot flushes, the need to strip off clothing to the bare minimum and those embarrassing sweats.

In our coaching practice, women experiencing unpleasant menopause symptoms are a dime a dozen, and most just accept them as a normal part of life. Resolving the root cause of menopause symptoms is one of our specialties, so let’s discuss some essential ways to do this and at the same time, manage symptoms you may be experiencing now. A fraught menopause has its foundations in a sluggish and stagnant liver and a compromised immune system. The liver is responsible for producing some hormones and regulating hormone production but is also the body’s workhorse that has to break down everything we ingest, inhale, slather on our skin and are exposed to in our modern world. Diet plays a profound role in healing the liver and reducing menopause symptoms, so focus on foods low in fat and abundant in nutrients, such as fruit, vegetables, gluten-free wholegrains, legumes, nuts, seeds and healthy fats. Adequate hydration is essential because hot flushes and sweats lead to fluid loss in the body. The risk of chronic dehydration escalates in summer when the body naturally needs a higher water intake. A great way to stay well hydrated is to drink 2.5 litres of water every day, and supplement with smoothies and green juices, such as celery, cucumber and apple. Cucumber in particular is fantastic for cooling the liver. Dehydration can also wreak havoc on menopausal skin, resulting in extreme dryness or inflammation. Be sure to check out Sue from Tranquillo’s article opposite for tips on how to support your skin during this change of life. Temperature fluctuations in the body weaken the adrenal glands, which can lead to electrolyte and hormone imbalances and stubborn body fat. Eat plenty of foods that cleanse the liver and support hormone balance, such as wild blueberries, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, bananas, melons, papaya, celery, tomatoes, capsicum, black grapes and lentils. These foods are also essential in boosting the immune system and supporting the reproductive system. As a priority, avoid dairy products, gluten and eggs, all of which promote viral activity and thrive on toxic heavy metals in the body (both of which contribute to menopause symptoms) and worsen conditions associated with the reproductive system. Fasting should also be avoided because depletion of carbohydrates (the body’s main fuel source) leads to the release of adrenaline in the body, further weakening adrenal function. Four supplements that we see wonderful results with are Vitamin B12 (with methylcobalamin), liquid zinc sulphate, spirulina powder and barley grass powder, all of which are antiviral and potent detoxifiers. Furthermore, lemon balm, milk thistle, magnesium glycinate and cat’s claw are excellent supplements for managing menopause symptoms. Ladies, don’t despair. Menopause is not something to be loathed or feared. All it takes to sail through this stage of life is the right knowledge and tools to set you on the right path. And to ensure you can enjoy summer once again!

BLUEBERRY BANANA SPICE SMOOTHIE

This sweet, creamy smoothie will flood your body with nutrients! Wild blueberries are a superfood, packed with antioxidants and healing properties. Cinnamon is also a super-strength antioxidant. A smoothie is also a great way to get all your supplements in, minus the yucky taste!

2 bananas 2 cups frozen wild blueberries (you can use other berries if you prefer – raspberries, strawberries etc) 1½ cups coconut water or water ¼ tsp cinnamon, or more to taste pinch nutmeg (optional)

OPTIONAL – ADD THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS:

1 dose of vitamin B12, 1 dose of liquid zinc sulphate (follow recommended dosage on label), 1 tsp spirulina powder, 1 tsp barley grass powder.

Place coconut water or water and bananas in a blender and blend well.

Add frozen berries and spices and blend until smooth.

Pour into a big glass!

Heidi Jennings | 0275 431 387 jenningshealthcoach.com

Heidi Jennings is a holistic health coach, plant-based nutrition specialist and Amazon #1 bestselling author who empowers her clients to take control of their health and live a life they truly love.