HOLISTIC

Women’s Health

Charting Collagen Changes

Perimenopause, usually beginning around the age of forty, when menstrual cycles become irregular as menopause approaches, is a 10–15-year period. Weight gain in the abdominal area during this period is often a sign that a woman’s blood sugar balance and insulin levels are not at their ideal, and that her estrogen levels are decreasing.

Here are a few strategies to optimize perimenopause health:

1) If your stress hormones, such as cortisol or epinephrine, are already elevated, these hormone imbalances can increase by overexercising and exercising too intensely, which causes the body to release more cortisol.

2) Reduce stressors in your life and find balance with joyous activities. Focus on gratitude and connecting to Hashem.

3) Research indicates that adding maca to your smoothies or supplement regimen has been shown to improve estrogen levels, balance hormones, and reduce perimenopausal symptoms specifically related to low estrogen.

4) Eating meals at regular intervals, preferably earlier in the day, can help improve weight loss efforts and reduce health risks in perimenopausal women.

Chayala Englard is a proud wife, mother, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. Her private practice, Life PT, is located in Lakewood, New Jersey, and is primarily focused on women’s health and pelvic floor rehab.