Fasting During Perimenopause: What You Need to Know

Fasting During Perimenopause: What You Need to Know

Fasting has been around for centuries, but it’s gained a lot of traction recently, especially in the wellness world. If you’re navigating perimenopause and trying to manage your weight, you might have considered fasting as a potential solution. But before you jump on the fasting bandwagon, let’s break down the pros, cons, and how fasting can affect your body during this critical phase of life.

The Pros of Fasting

Fasting, when done thoughtfully, can offer several benefits. It can help regulate blood sugar levels, support metabolic health, and give your digestive system a much-needed break. For some women, fasting can be a powerful tool to manage weight and improve overall health.

Here are some potential benefits of fasting:

• Blood Sugar Regulation: Fasting can help improve insulin sensitivity, which is essential for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and preventing energy crashes.

• Metabolic Health: Intermittent fasting has been shown to boost metabolic function, potentially aiding in weight loss or maintenance.

• Digestive Rest: Giving your digestive system a break can reduce bloating, improve gut health, and promote a sense of lightness.

The Cons of Fasting During Perimenopause

While fasting might sound appealing, it’s not without its challenges—especially during perimenopause. This phase of life comes with its own set of hormonal fluctuations, which can make fasting a tricky endeavor. Here’s why fasting might not be the best approach for everyone:

• Increased Stress: Perimenopause already elevates your body’s stress levels due to fluctuating hormones. Fasting, particularly extended periods without food, can increase cortisol (the stress hormone) production, leading to more anxiety, irritability, and even weight gain.

• Disrupted Sleep: Hormonal shifts during perimenopause often lead to sleep disturbances. Fasting, especially when it’s not done mindfully, can further disrupt your sleep patterns, leaving you feeling more exhausted and less equipped to handle daily stressors.

• Slowed Metabolism: Fasting can lead to muscle loss if not done correctly, which in turn can slow down your metabolism—making weight loss even more challenging.

My Take on Fasting

Given the pros and cons, I’m not a big fan of morning fasting for perimenopausal women. Skipping breakfast can set you up for blood sugar swings, low energy, and even more intense cravings later in the day. Instead, I’ve found that an evening fast works much better for me and many of the women I coach.

Personally, I fast from around 4:30 pm. This approach allows my digestive system to wind down in the evening, which improves my sleep quality and helps me wake up feeling refreshed and energized. I also occasionally do a 24-hour fast to reset my gut, which reduces bloating and helps me feel more balanced overall.

Fasting with Caution

If you’re considering fasting during perimenopause, it’s crucial to listen to your body and find what works for you. It’s not about pushing yourself to extremes but finding a rhythm that supports your health and well-being.

Fasting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, and it might not be right for everyone—especially during the hormonal rollercoaster of perimenopause. If you’re unsure about how to incorporate fasting into your lifestyle or if it’s the right choice for you, I’m here to help. We can work together to create a plan that’s tailored to your body’s needs and your goals, ensuring you get the benefits without the drawbacks.

Navigating perimenopause is challenging enough without adding unnecessary stress. Let’s focus on strategies that support your health, balance your hormones, and help you feel your best during this transition.

If you’re ready to take control of your health and explore what works best for your body, let’s chat.