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Perimenopause remedies
I have recently put on weight, which I cannot seem to shift at all. I am 41 and exercise regularly, eat a healthy diet and try to avoid gluten and dairy. I am generally very fit but am having trouble sleeping too. Is there anything that will kickstart my metabolism?
One common reason for unexplained weight gain in women aged between 35 and 50 is a condition known as perimenopause which is caused by hormonal changes leading up to the menopause. Other key symptoms include erratic periods, mood swings, hot flushes, and the insomnia you are also suffering.
There are many hormone-balancing herbs which can help but one of the most effective is the Chinese herb, Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) which is a member of the celery family and which is known, in Chinese medicine, as the “female ginseng.”
Dong Quai is rich in plant chemicals called phytoestrogens which work to either raise or lower oestrogen levels in the body but which have a much milder action than conventional hormone replacement medication. The correct dosage is 200mg of a standardised extract (which guarantees a therapeutic dose of the active agents), two or three times a day. Since Dong Quai also works to boost circulation and enhance the activity of white blood cells, you will also be boosting your immune system to fight off seasonal colds and flu.
To further combat the insomnia, use a passionflower remedy - which will be enhanced if you take it with one of the anti-anxiety herbs such as valerian. All these remedies are widely on sale in good health stores. Take as directed on the labels but do not use Dong Quai if you are pregnant, breastfeeding or have any gastric problems.