Did you know that high oestrogen levels can make fat loss an uphill battle?
While we’re going through the rollercoaster of hormone fluctuations in perimenopause and menopause, oestrogen can overpower progesterone, leading to a state known as oestrogen dominance. This hormonal imbalance manifests in various ways, one of which is weight gain or struggling to shed those extra pounds.
Oestrogen plays a crucial role in metabolism and fat distribution, and when in excess, it can promote fat storage, especially around the belly. But that’s not all. Oestrogen dominance can trigger insulin sensitivity, explaining those insatiable cravings you suddenly have for fudgy brownies with cream (or whatever else makes you drool).
It can also leave you feeling bloated, terribly moody and tormented by headaches, amongst other unpleasant symptoms. Ouch.
What can you do to get out of this? Here are my top tips:
- Exercise hard enough so that you burn fat, which will release excess oestrogen.
- Include cruciferous vegetables such as cabbage, kale, or broccoli in your diet. They’ll bind excess oestrogen and release it through your liver.
- Add chia or linseeds to your smoothie to help get things moving and remove excess oestrogen, aka make you go to the toilet.
- Moderate alcohol consumption. Even a single glass of wine can elevate your oestrogen levels, giving you that telltale sweaty face after a hot flash.
- Minimise exposure to endocrine disruptors like that plastic container you use to heat up your lunch in the microwave.
- Reconsider taking the contraceptive pill because it can tip the hormonal scales into the wrong direction even more.
- Reduce stress with practises like breathing, Yoga or meditation to balance your hormones.
Understanding how oestrogen dominance affects your body empowers you to tailor your lifestyle accordingly. The accumulation of belly fat isn’t just a cosmetic concern; it’s a health issue linked to this hormonal imbalance. That persistent belly fat isn’t just excess weight—it’s a reservoir for oestrogen, creating a vicious cycle.
Breaking free from this cycle requires a multifaceted approach. Alongside dietary changes and exercise, consider diving into resources and information that can guide you in your journey. Empower yourself with knowledge about hormonal health and explore the strategies that work best for your body. Remember, the key is to find what resonates with you and take the reins of your health into your own hands.
Menopause doesn’t have to be a hard journey if you know what buttons to dial! I’m here to support you on this empowering journey!
