Menopause can make weight loss a real struggle
Ladies, it's time to break the myth that weight loss is easy during menopause. The truth is, menopause can make weight loss a real struggle. Hormonal changes during this time can lead to a slower metabolism, increased appetite and cravings, and even changes in the distribution of fat in the body. But don't give up hope! With proper diet, exercise, and support (from peeps like us), you can still achieve your weight loss goals. So let's come together, support each other, and tackle this challenge head-on!
Menopause is a key time to take care of our bodies, both inside and out. But we first need to look at WHY it’s all happening
During menopause, there are several hormonal changes that can contribute to weight gain. These include:
- Decreased levels of estrogen: As estrogen levels decrease, the body may experience a slowdown in metabolism and an increase in body fat.
- Increased levels of insulin: As estrogen levels decrease, insulin resistance can increase, leading to higher insulin levels and more fat storage.
- Changes in cortisol levels: Cortisol is a stress hormone that can also impact weight. During menopause, cortisol levels may increase, leading to increased fat storage, particularly in the abdominal area.
- Imbalanced levels of thyroid hormones: The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, and during menopause, thyroid hormones can become imbalanced, leading to a slower metabolism and weight gain.
It's important to note that these hormonal changes can affect each person differently, and weight gain during menopause is not inevitable for everyone. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and stress management can help mitigate the effects of these hormonal changes and support weight loss.
But what if we’re doing all that and it’s still not happening? Well this is something we see EVERYDAY. Afterall, people don’t reach out for help if its all going to plan.
So I thought we’d share what we’ve found works for our clients:
Inositol and Berberine: Natural Supplements for Weight Loss
If you're looking for a natural solution to support your weight loss journey, you may have heard of the supplements inositol and berberine. These natural compounds have been shown to offer numerous health benefits, including supporting weight loss, reducing insulin resistance, and improving gut health. In this blog, we'll take a closer look at how inositol and berberine can support weight loss.
What is Inositol?
Inositol is a carbohydrate that is naturally present in many foods, including fruits, beans, and grains. It's often referred to as a "B-vitamin-like" substance because of its role in the body. Inositol has been shown to support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity and reducing the accumulation of fat in the liver. It's also thought to improve the function of the neurotransmitter serotonin, which can help regulate mood and reduce cravings.
What is Berberine?
Berberine is a natural compound that is found in several plants, including barberry, goldenseal, and coptis. It's been used in traditional Chinese medicine for thousands of years to support a variety of health conditions. Berberine has been shown to support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity, reducing inflammation, and promoting healthy gut bacteria. It's also been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.
How Can Inositol and Berberine Support Weight Loss?
Inositol and berberine both support weight loss by improving insulin sensitivity. Insulin resistance is a major factor in weight gain, as it leads to an increase in blood sugar levels and fat storage. By improving insulin sensitivity, these supplements can help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the accumulation of fat in the body.
In addition, inositol and berberine both have a positive impact on gut health. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for weight loss, as it helps regulate metabolism and reduces inflammation. Berberine has been shown to promote the growth of healthy gut bacteria, while inositol helps regulate the transport of fats and cholesterol in the gut.
Dosage and Safety
Inositol and berberine are generally considered safe for most people when taken as directed. However, as with any supplement, it's important to speak with someone ‘in the know’ before starting a new supplement regimen, especially if you have any underlying health conditions. Dosages for these supplements vary depending on the individual, but a typical effective dose for inositol is 2000mg to 4000mg per day, and for berberine 500-1500mg per day.
So if you’ve been struggling and keen to give something a go, this might be just the right combo for you!