Ah, the surprises of aging. One day, you’re confidently marching through life, and the next, your period’s gone rogue, you’re inexplicably cranky 😡, and energy? What’s that? Welcome to early perimenopause! Don’t worry—you’re not alone, and it’s not your imagination. There’s good news, too: with a bit of knowledge and some smart lifestyle tweaks, you can take control of this stage and navigate it with grace (and maybe a little laughter 😅).
What is Early Perimenopause?
Early perimenopause is like a warm-up act before the big show—menopause. It’s the time when your body starts transitioning, often in your late 30s or early 40s (but hey, some of us get a head start!). This stage can last for several years, and it’s full of hormonal ups and downs that can make things... interesting 😬.
Now, here’s where it gets tricky. Many GPs might tell you, “You’re too young for menopause!” 🧐 But perimenopause has other plans. Even though you’re not officially menopausal yet, those pesky menopause symptoms are starting to creep in. So, what are perimenopause symptoms? Let’s dive in.
Early Perimenopause Symptoms - Spotting the Signs, What to Watch For 👀
So, how can you tell if you’re in early perimenopause? Look out for these common signs (aka the clues your body is giving you that it’s prepping for menopause):
Irregular Periods: One of the earliest signs is that your period is playing hide-and-seek —showing up when it wants, staying away for months, or arriving with a vengeance.
Mood Swings: If you’re feeling like a hormonal rollercoaster—happy one minute, irritable the next 😠—that’s likely your hormones at play.
Fatigue: Suddenly feeling like you could nap all day, even after a full night’s sleep? Perimenopause can zap your energy levels like nothing else.
Hot Flashes (Already?! 🔥): Yep, hot flashes can strike even in early perimenopause. You might find yourself randomly overheating during the day or waking up sweaty at night.
Brain Fog: Struggling to remember names, dates, or where you left your keys? Welcome to the world of brain fog, another lovely gift from those fluctuating hormones.
Sleep Disturbances: Tossing and turning, waking up at odd hours, or feeling like you never hit the deep sleep zone? Hormonal changes can wreak havoc on your sleep patterns, leaving you exhausted the next day.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone—these are all classic menopause early symptoms. And while they’re normal, they can definitely throw you off. But don’t worry, there’s plenty you can do to manage them!
Managing Perimenopause Symptoms: Tailored Nutrition and Fitness 🏋️♀️
Let’s be real—your body is changing, and that’s okay 👍. But you don’t have to just “ride it out.” You can take charge, and the first step is making sure your lifestyle supports your hormonal health. But here’s the thing: generic protocols aren’t going to cut it.
What works for your friend might not work for you, and that’s okay. We use genetic profiling to identify your unique makeup and give you personalised tools so you can thrive.
1. Nutrition for Your Unique Body 🍽️
During early perimenopause, it’s crucial to eat foods that keep your energy steady, support hormone balance, and help you feel your best. But the one-size-fits-all approach? Nope—that won’t cut it here.
Eat Plenty of Protein: Lean proteins like fish, chicken, and plant-based options (beans, lentils) help keep your muscles strong and your energy steady ⚡.
Whole Grains and Fiber: Complex carbs like oats and quinoa can keep you fueled without the sugar crashes 🍬 that make mood swings worse.
Healthy Fats: Incorporate heart-healthy fats like avocado, nuts, and olive oil. They can help with inflammation and even combat those pesky menopause symptoms like mood swings.
2. Fitness Tailored to You 🏃♀️
Moving your body during perimenopause is essential, but again—what’s important is finding what works for you. We personalise your fitness routine 🏋️ to your genetic profile so you’re doing what your body needs.
Cardio: Keep your heart happy with moderate-intensity cardio, like brisk walking or cycling. It’ll help balance your hormones and keep your energy up.
Strength Training: This is a must for bone health 🦴 and metabolism. We design a plan that ensures you’re staying strong and resilient as you head toward menopause.
3. Prioritise Sleep and Self-Care 🧘♀️
With hormones wreaking havoc, sleep disturbances are common. Creating a peaceful sleep environment and sticking to a bedtime routine can do wonders. Add in some mindfulness or meditation to help manage stress, and you’re well on your way to a smoother perimenopause journey.
Stay Informed, Stay Empowered & Break The Silence 📢
The early signs of perimenopause can be unsettling, especially when the response from doctors is, “You’re too young!” But you know your body best. By taking proactive steps and making small adjustments, you can navigate this phase with confidence 💪.