As women, our bodies are an intricate tapestry, continuously evolving and adapting throughout the various stages of life. But you know what they say ladies, our bodies are like fine wine – they only get better with time! 

From the mystery-filled twists of puberty to the seasoned chapters of menopause and everything in between, our bodies are a marvel. Think of them as the Swiss Army Knives of the natural world; adaptable, versatile, and always surprising us with a new tool. By understanding the (not-so-scary) science behind these changes and taking control of our bodies, we can empower ourselves to embrace every stage of our journey.

Let’s take a look through the journey of womanhood, and some helpful top tips to help you manage each stage.

Puberty: The 'Where-did-these-come-from?' Phase

Puberty is like your debut in the world of womanhood, a transformative phase that brings significant physical and emotional changes. Understanding our bodies during this time is crucial, as it sets the foundation for fertility later in life. Education about menstrual health and reproductive choices empowers young women to make informed decisions about their bodies and future.

The Rollercoaster of Fertility

Fertility can be both a joyous and challenging aspect of a woman's life. From trying to conceive to addressing infertility, this journey can be emotionally taxing. By seeking support from medical professionals and leaning on our support systems, we can navigate this rollercoaster ride with courage and determination.

Perimenopause: A New Crossroad

As we approach our late 30s to early 40s, perimenopause becomes a significant crossroad in our lives. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to irregular periods and uncomfortable symptoms. Demystifying peri-menopause through knowledge and communication allows us to approach this stage with grace and self-compassion.

Menopause: A Natural Transition

Menopause, a natural part of ageing, signifies the end of the reproductive years. While it can bring physical changes like hot flashes and mood swings, it also marks a new beginning. By accepting and embracing menopause, we can celebrate the wisdom and freedom that come with this stage.

 

Simone’s Top tips to journeying each stage with success

Taking Control of Our Bodies

Taking control of our bodies involves both physical and mental well-being. Prioritising regular health check-ups and screenings empowers us to proactively manage our health. Additionally, adopting a balanced diet, staying physically active, and managing stress contribute to our overall well-being.

Tackling Menopause with the Levagen in 'Pause the Meno'

Menopause is the era of rediscovering yourself. Consider natural supplements, like the Levagen in 'Pause the Meno'. It’s like Mother Nature’s answer to joint health and menstrual discomfort. Did you know it even rivals ibuprofen in its pain-relief properties? Mind. Blown.

This high-quality Palmitoylethanolamide (PEA) solution has been shown to effectively support joint health, manage pain, aid sports recovery, and promote sleep.

PEA, which is naturally found in sources like egg yolks and peanuts, acts as an anti-inflammatory agent, proving beneficial in easing pain symptoms. For women navigating the menopausal journey, especially the 40% who experience menopause-related joint pain, Levagen offers a natural solution. 

Breaking the Taboos

Many cultural taboos surround women's health, making it difficult to discuss these issues openly. There was a time when even whispering the word ‘period’ would send guys running for the hills. Even today, in an era of space tourism and AI, period commercials still shy away from using, dare I say, actual red to show their pad prowess. Instead, we get that weird blue liquid—like, who has ever had a blue period?! Women are not smurfs, people.

Breaking these barriers and creating a supportive environment for candid conversations can have a positive impact on our emotional and physical health. From fertility challenges to menopause, every stage of womanhood is an opportunity to celebrate our strength and resilience. 

For women going through menopause and undergoing HRT

Menopause is a natural phase in a woman's life when her menstrual cycles cease, accompanied by various hormonal changes. 

Here are just some of the common symptoms:

• Hot Flashes: Suddenly feeling like you're in the Sahara? That's a hot flash, where you experience a sudden feeling of warmth spreading through the upper body and face.
• Night Sweats: Basically, hot flashes that crash your nighttime party.
• Sleep Disturbances: Tossing, turning, and frequently waking up? Blame it on menopause.
• Mood Swings: Feeling the emotional rollercoaster? Mood changes, irritability, and even mild depression can happen.
• Vaginal Dryness: Changes in oestrogen levels can lead to dryness, itching, or discomfort.
• Weight Gain: Metabolism can slow down, leading to those pesky extra pounds.
• Decreased Libido: Some women may experience a drop in their sex drive.
• Irregular Periods: Before they stop, periods can become unpredictable.
• Bone Density Loss: This can increase the risk of osteoporosis.
• Memory Lapses: Occasional forgetfulness can occur. Who put the keys in the fridge?

What I have been doing with my Keto and fasting diet

As I have mentioned, I am currently going through menopause (you can read my blog here with an update about my Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) journey and how it’s working for me). 

Simone says:

"To support my blood sugar levels and changes through HRT and menopause: I usually kickstart my day with my 'Pause the Meno' shake. It’s my secret weapon before hitting the personal training. Then, I play the waiting game and break my fast at noon. Trusty MyFitnessPal is my sidekick in tracking progress, and my PT has been doing weekly check-ins each time I am in the studio on a Monday.”

Any favourite meals that align with the keto-diet?

Here are my top 3 favourite recipes at the moment that I’ve been loving:

	Green salmon pasta: https://simonethomaswellness.com/blogs/nutrihome/green-salmon-pasta
	Lean Meatballs with Creamy Cauliflower and Broccoli: https://simonethomaswellness.com/blogs/nutrihome/lean-meatballs-with-creamy-cauliflower-and-broccoli
	Roasted Butternut Squash Quesadillas: https://simonethomaswellness.com/blogs/nutrihome/roasted-butternut-squash-quesadillas

If you are looking for more ideas and inspiration, take a look at our Simone Thomas “NutriHome”. It brings you monthly recipes that are organic when possible, clean living with a little bit of naughty, covering all forms of diets and needs as well as catering for your lunch box ideas, breakfast, dinner, snacks and indulgent sweet treats: https://simonethomaswellness.com/blogs/nutrihome 

Fasting: More Than Just a Trendy Diet

This isn't just a fancy diet fad; there's science behind it. For us fabulous women riding the menopause wave, intermittent fasting can be a game-changer. It's been found to help manage those unexpected weight gains (thanks, hormones!) and even balance out some of our hormonal roller coasters. And here's the cherry on top: it aids in improving insulin sensitivity and reducing inflammation. Essentially, it's like giving our bodies a tune-up, right when we need it most. So, while menopause might come with its share of unexpected twists, at least we've got a trick up our sleeve to feel more in control.

Mastering Mindful Habits

In addition to fasting, balanced eating, and exercise, adopting mindful habits can enhance the overall well-being of women in menopause. Stress management techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga, can help alleviate anxiety, improve sleep quality, and reduce hot flashes. Prioritising sleep and practising good sleep hygiene is also essential during this stage, as sleep disturbances are common.

Help your Hair and Gut Health

Give a girl the right hair, and she can conquer anything—even menopause! Enter the Ginkgo Wellness Plan, your new BFF. Think of it as a smoothie for your hair: a mix of Ginkgo Biloba B+, Super Greens, and trusty Everyday Wellness capsules. It's the hair TLC and immune boost you've been dreaming of.

And if you're still on the hunt for that magic hair potion? Check out the Biotin Hair Supplement Plan—a triple threat that pampers your locks, keeps you healthy, and makes sure your gut is having its own party!

How Can I Prevent Menopausal Hair Loss?

There are plenty of steps you can take to limit the impact of the menopause on your hair and body, and keep yourself feeling happy and healthy through the menopause and beyond.

• Exercise is key. Particularly body weight and resistance training, pilates and yoga. Keep your blood pumping, strengthen your muscles and lift your mood!
• Food. It’s really important to eat a healthy balanced diet including plenty of fruit, vegetables and unprocessed foods.
• Drink plenty of water. Your body needs to be well hydrated to function properly.
• Consider taking supplements to promote healthy hair and skin. Simone Thomas’s own range of award-winning supplements.
• Be gentle with your hair. Go easy on heated styling, tight hair bands and buns.

For more advice see Simone Thomas’s book Healthy Hair, Happy Body. Available to purchase on Amazon.

What benefits can these lifestyle changes give?

• Help you manage your weight
• Regulate hormonal imbalances
• Support bone health
• Reduce the risk of heart disease
• Improve overall quality of life during this transitional period.

Let's keep it real and redefine the narrative. We can create a world where women can openly discuss their health and confidently navigate their unique journeys with pride and empowerment.Now is your chance to embrace this transformative stage with a holistic approach that prioritises your well-being.