Bria Gadd, a certified holistic health coach and 'period whisperer,' guides women through hormonal transitions, especially peri-menopause. She reveals how women often fall into 'health debt' and offers strategies for energy management. The conversation dives into the vital relationship between nutrition and hormonal balance, underlining the benefits of sobriety for improved sleep and well-being. Bria encourages women to embrace menopause as a time for empowerment, challenging age-related stereotypes while promoting self-care and healthy choices.
Understanding hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause can significantly impact women's emotional and physical challenges in their sobriety journey.
Proper nutrition and balanced meals are essential for managing energy demands and supporting hormonal health during perimenopause.
Deep dives
Understanding Perimenopause and its Impact
Perimenopause typically begins around the age of 35 and lasts for about 20 years, leading up to menopause. During this time, women's hormones, particularly progesterone and estrogen, fluctuate significantly, impacting their physical and mental well-being. Symptoms such as anxiety, sleep disturbances, and weight gain are common, and many women might not even recognize these as signs of hormonal changes. This period is often described as a reverse puberty, highlighting the drastic shifts in the body that can create discomfort and confusion.
The Role of Hormones in Sobriety
The hormonal fluctuations that occur during perimenopause can affect women's sobriety journey differently than men's. Women may experience greater emotional and physical challenges when quitting alcohol, linked to the changes in progesterone and estrogen, which impact mood and stress levels. Recognizing that these hormonal shifts complicate recovery is crucial, as feeling overwhelmed can lead to a relapse or increased struggles. It is essential for women to understand their unique hormonal backgrounds to navigate their sobriety effectively.
Nutrition and Energy Balance
Proper nutrition plays a vital role in managing the energy demands associated with hormonal changes during perimenopause. Maintaining stable blood sugar through regular, balanced meals is critical to prevent energy dips that can exacerbate symptoms like anxiety and mood swings. Women should focus on nutrient-dense foods while minimizing processed sugars and inflammatory elements such as alcohol and caffeine. By ensuring they consume adequate protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, women can better support their hormonal health and overall well-being.
The Importance of Movement and Support
Movement is essential for maintaining health during perimenopause, but the type and intensity of exercise must align with energy levels. Basic functional movements such as walking and stretching should be prioritized, allowing for a strong foundation before engaging in more intensive workouts. Balancing personal energy demands with physical activities is crucial to prevent further hormonal imbalance. Additionally, having support through programs or group coaching can provide women with the necessary tools and resources to navigate these changes effectively.
Bria Gadd is the 'period whisperer', a certified holistic health coach she helps women navigate the peri menopause and the hormonal transitions women go through. She explains how women get themselves into 'health debt' and how women can manage the supply and demand of energy. And of course, one of the best ways to get out of health debt is to stop drinking alcohol.