Weight Loss during Perimenopause

Losing weight becomes more challenging in our 40's and 50's. Hormonal changes can impact metabolism and make it harder to shift those unwanted kilos. One strategy that has gained popularity in recent years and I have used personally with great success is intermittent fasting. Read to find out what you need to know about weight loss and intermittent fasting during perimenopause.

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittent fasting is a pattern o feating that involves alternating periods of fasting and eating. There are several different methods of intermittent fasting but the most common is the 16/8 method. This involves fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8 hour window. For example, you might eat between 12pm and 8pm and fast for the remaining 12 hours.

How does Intermittent Fasting Help with Weight Loss?

Intermittent fasting can help with weight loss in several ways. First, it can help reduce calorie intake by limited the amount of time you have to eat. Second, it can help improve insulin sensitivity, which helps the body burn fat more efficiently. Finally, intermittent fasting can help reduce inflammation, which is linked to weight gain and other health issues.

The above photo on the left is me at 48 before I started intermittent fasting. The photo on the right is me now (aged 50 and 20kilos lighter with my Hashimotos nearly in full remission)

Tips for Intermittent Fasting during Perimenopause

If you're considering intermittent fasting during perimenopause, here are some tips to keep in mind:

1. Start slowly: if you're new to fasting, start with a shorter fasting window and gradually increase it over time. There are a lot of great fasting apps that can help keep you on track

2. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water during the fasting period to stay hydrated and help reduce hunger.

3. Eat Nutrient Dense Foods: When you do eat, focus on nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and healthy fats.

4. Listen to your body: If you feel lightheaded or dizzy during the fasting period, it may be a sign that you need to adjust your fasting window or eat more during the eating period.

5. Talk to your health professional: If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking medication, talk to your health professional before starting intermittent fasting.

In conclusion, intermittent fasting can be an effective strategy for weight loss during perimenopause. However, its important to approach it with caution and listen to your body's needs. By combining intermittent fasting with a healthy diet and regular exercise, you can achieve your weight loss goals and improve your overall health during perimenopause.