The link between menopause and blood sugar control is more complex than many women realize, with the body’s nervous system playing a crucial role.
During perimenopause, the nervous system becomes particularly sensitive to changes in blood sugar.
Menopause coach, Eileen Durwardexplained what our blood sugar level is and how it relates to menopause.
She said: “Your brain needs glucose for fuel, so levels need to remain constant in the blood at all times. And sometimes your blood sugar levels get a little low. If it starts to get too low, then the body must give you some sort of warning signal that it’s time to eat something.
Hot flashes are common in postmenopausal women
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“(These warning signs are) normally a feeling of hunger and very often that’s something we’ll address next. It could also be sweet cravings.
“But if we ignore that, if we’re too busy or something else is going on, or if we can’t eat something, then eventually the blood sugar level will drop a little bit and the body will have to give a greater amount of sugar in the blood. And this is where our nervous system is sometimes called upon.
“The problem is that our nervous system is already under a lot of pressure from everything that happens around menopause. And what’s happening here is he tends to get too sensitive. So instead of being sensible and just giving us a little nudge to say “eat something,” it tends to go too far.
“What happens is we tend to have menopause-like symptoms. Thus, the nervous system will trigger phenomena such as hot flashes, anxiety or panic attacks. It could also be palpitations.
To combat our nervous system triggering these menopause-like symptoms, Eileen explained how women can help themselves in this situation.
Avoid sugar and caffeine
The expert said: “Firstly, if you experience cravings, try to avoid sugar and caffeine, as they are major contributors to your blood sugar levels rising too quickly. »
Plan your meals
Making sure you are properly prepared for what to eat will put you in a better position than being rushed. Eileen emphasized the need to prepare meals at the right times of the day.
Eating healthy snacks between meals is a good thing women can do
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Eat good healthy fats and proteins
The menopause coach said: “Make sure you’re eating enough, and this will include plenty of protein and good fats. Good healthy fats and proteins will keep your blood sugar levels more stable than any sugary snack.
Eat healthy snacks between meals
Healthy, low-calorie snacks are one of the best things women can do between meals.
The expert recommended sulfur-free apricots, figs and Medjool dates as foods to consume between main meals.