Peri- and menopausal fatigue
By Kaley Burns EBS COLUMNIST
Perimenopause and menopause often leave many women feeling unlike themselves and fatigued. The average age for menopause is 51. Yet, the transitional phase that leads up to menopause, known as perimenopause, can start as early as one’s 40s and last 7-10 years. It is estimated that only 6% of the 47 million women entering menopause each year receive proper menopausal care.
As estrogen and progesterone levels fluctuate, many women begin to experience perimenopause symptoms. Estrogen plays a role in the metabolism of various neurotransmitters, including serotonin and the hormone melatonin. Therefore, along with night sweats and hot flashes, many women also experience exacerbated insomnia.
Beyond this, as women enter perimenopause, cortisol levels also fluctuate. Cortisol, also known as the “stress hormone,” plays a vital role in regulating the body’s natural clock, or circadian rhythms. As cortisol levels alter, many feel more on edge or stressed, heart rate can change, and body temperature often rises. When such hormonal changes start, other physical changes can occur. Unique nutritional needs can vary. If nutritional needs are not met, the body is not going to have enough energy for regular daily activities. Cortisol fluctuations also contribute to another common aggravating factor: fluctuating blood sugar levels. A quick dip can cause sudden fatigue.
It doesn’t have to be so difficult.
The good news is that perimenopausal and menopausal related concerns are completely normal and can be addressed with a variety of holistic options.
Hormone therapies
Bioidentical hormone therapy (BHT) are hormone treatments derived from plants and are as close as possible to the hormones produced by the human body. This helps reduce the risk of side effects that can be caused by synthetically produced hormones. To determine if bioidentical hormone therapy is the best option for you, consult a physician who specializes in hormone therapy. Hormone testing can also be helpful when the pattern of symptoms is more complicated.
Nutrient status
Contributing to everything from energy production to brain function, B vitamins play a vital role in some of the body’s most important processes. Supporting balance in your B vitamins helps to release energy from our food and support the nervous system and adrenal stress response. Magnesium is also vital during hormonal changes. It not only helps to balance hormones and reduce hot flashes, night sweats and mood swings, but also can help to reduce stress and anxiety, improve sleep quality and reduce fatigue.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine can provide significant relief for some of the most problematic symptoms of perimenopause without the potential side effects of pharmaceutical drugs. Studies have shown that acupuncture can help boost energy levels, improve chronic fatigue and improve hot flashes and sleep quality.
Lab evaluation
It is important to note that if you try various methods of alleviation without relief, it can mean that other health issues might be involved. This is usually a good time for you to check in with your healthcare provider. Finding the underlying factor such as low vitamin D, B12, iron and poor thyroid function can help you address your concerns more effectively.
Dr. Kaley Burns is a licensed Naturopathic Physician providing a wide range of services for her clients, including: Naturopathic Medicine, IV Nutrient Therapy, Regenerative Injections, Rejuvenation Therapies, Vitamin Shots, and Nutrition Counseling. She embraces a natural approach to health and aims to similarly inspire and guide others on their health journey.
