If you're a woman in your late 30s, 40s, or early 50s, and you're noticing changes in your body -- you're not alone! The transition into menopause can take as long as ten years and is often characterized by weight gain, increased irritability, sleep changes, and that hallmark of the menopausal transition -- hot flashes. Did you know that there are at least 34 symptoms of menopause, ranging from mood issues to digestive concerns, allergies, bone density changes, heart rate changes, libido, headaches, joint pain, and more? What Can I Do About Menopausal Symptoms? There are some ways in which you can support your body's transition into menopause. Some of the primary tips include:

• Eat properly for this time in your life. This means eating balanced meals that include protein and fat and fiber (not just a bowl of cereal or pasta, ladies!). Think of a grain bowl with quinoa, several veggies, avocado, and an olive oil based dressing, or a protein of your choice (tofu, salmon, chicken, etc.) with a side of roasted vegetables and some rice. Any dessert should be eaten at the end of a meal, not at a separate time, so the impacts to your blood sugar are lower. Snacks should include protein and fat -- think fruit with full fat yogurt, hummus with carrots or crackers, apple with nut butter.
• Get some movement. Walks are great -- especially right after meals. Strength training is a wonderful addition a few times a week to ward against decreases in bone density. Yoga, pilates, team sports, trampolining, truly whatever you can get excited about that gets your heart rate up and works your muscles 3-4 times a week is an excellent choice.
• Decrease stressors. Saying no is an art! Decrease your responsibilities where possible. This includes decreased contact with people/friends/family who are not a positive force in your life. Plan for quiet time in your schedule -- even if you can only fit in 10 minutes. Use it to sit quietly, take a walk by yourself, or do some light stretching. We know that periods of quiet time decrease stress and also boost creativity and productivity.

What Other Help Is Available? Acupuncture and herbal medicine can be great allies in your menopause journey! Acupuncture points are selected to help ease the hormonal transition and can also address specific symptoms such as difficulty falling asleep, difficulty staying asleep, erratic moods, irritability, anxiety, digestive discomfort and bloating, hot flashes and night sweats, headaches, fatigue, and more. Similarly, there are a wide variety of Chinese herbs that can support the menopausal transition and specific symptoms -- everything from dry eyes to brain fog to thinning hair and vaginal dryness. Could Acupuncture and Herbs Be Right for Me? Are you wondering if acupuncture and Chinese herbs might help you in your menopausal journey? Contact Inspire Family Acupuncture for a free consultation call. Here's to your health!