Can my crazy hormones be perimenopause?

Perimenopause is the five to twelve year transition stage leading into menopause. It can be experienced by woman as early as their 30's. Its a period of hormonal upheaval that can lead to symptoms similar to those of menopause itself.

Fortunately things can be kept in check by living a balanced, healthy lifestyle. I've seen many patients that balance their hormones with the correct integrative treatment , under the care of a physician together with lifestyle changes.

Here are a few simple pointers.

1. WATCH YOUR WEIGHT - Woman carrying extra weight tend to suffer more hot flushes during perimenopause than woman at a healthy weight, according to an obstetrics & gynecology study. Eating well and getting enough sleep help with weight and perimenopause

2. KEEP MOVING - A recent finish study found that woman who exercised for 50 min a day , four days a week reported significantly reduced mood swings, less irritability and fewer night sweats. Similarly it will also help with bloating.

3. LIMIT ALCOHOL- Besides contributing to weight gain, alcohol spikes blood sugar and boosts cortisol. This leads to increase hot flushes and contributes to depression, your warns Dr Christiane Northrup. In addition, there's evidence that alcohol can also up your breast cancer risk

If you suspect you are in perimenopause make an appointment with your gynecologist to discuss the possibility of perimenopause.