Ladies, let’s be real, peri-menopause and menopause can be tough. Perimenopause is the transition period before menopause, usually starting in a woman’s 40s and lasting several years, where hormone levels fluctuate and cause symptoms like irregular periods, hot flashes and mood swings.
Menopause is when a woman has not had a period for 12 months and is the end of her reproductive years and hormone levels decrease and cause symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats and vaginal dryness.
Hot flashes, fatigue, mood swings – ugh, it’s enough to make you want to hide under the bed! But wait, what you eat can make a difference.
In Ayurveda, Indian tradition offers a treasure trove of natural remedies for these life changes. It all comes down to balancing your doshas – those unique mind-body energies. During peri-menopause and menopause, Vata (air and space) takes centre stage and causes dryness, anxiety and mood swings. So the key is to eat cooling and nourishing and keep that Vata in check.
Here are our top 7 picks from Ayurveda’s kitchen cabinet to help you navigate this period:
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Shatavari : This miracle herb is a Vata saviour. Think of it as a cool glass of water on a hot day – it cools and nourishes. Plus it’s traditionally known to support hormonal health, making it a great ally during this transition. You can add Shatavari powder to your milk or enjoy it in delicious preparations.
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Munakka: Feeling tired and weak? Munakka to the rescue! Packed with iron these tiny powerhouses can combat fatigue and keep your energy levels up. They’re also great for bone health which becomes even more important during menopause. Enjoy them as a midday snack or soak them overnight for a yummy mushy treat.
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Moong Dal: Light on the stomach and easy to digest, Moong Dal is a Vata-friendly superstar. Don’t be fooled by its simplicity – it’s full of protein and essential nutrients. Feeling creative? Whip up a bowl of comfort soup, or a hearty dal or even try sprouting them for an extra dose of goodness.
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Shankhpushpi: Ever heard of a “brain tonic”? Shankhpushpi is exactly that! This amazing herb is known to support memory, and focus and combat anxiety – all common complaints when Vata takes over. Traditionally consumed as a powder or mixed with ghee, it can be your secret weapon to stay sharp and calm.
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Ghee: Ghee isn’t just for adding flavour to your dishes! In Ayurveda, it’s considered to promote gut health and aid digestion – both important during Vata dominance. Rich in vitamins A, D and E, ghee is a multi tasking marvel. Drizzle it on your dals, use it for cooking or even consume it medicinally for that extra digestive boost.
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Ashwagandha: Stressed and anxious? Ashwagandha is here to help! This adaptogenic herb helps your body manage stress and anxiety and keeps those Vata imbalances in check. Plus it supports energy and promotes restful sleep – a win-win for anyone going through peri-menopause or menopause. Traditionally taken as a powder or in milk preparations, Ashwagandha can be your secret to a calmer you.
- Sesame Seeds (Til): As we age bone health becomes even more important. Sesame seeds are full of calcium, so they are great for strengthening your bones during menopause. These tiny powerhouses are also rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, so they are a nutritional powerhouse. Take them as seeds, in tahini sauce or sprinkle on your favourite vegetables for a crunchy nutty delight.
Remember these are just some of the foods Ayurveda has to offer to help you through peri-menopause and menopause. Just start incorporating them into your daily diet and see how you feel.
And for a personalised approach, consult an Ayurvedic practitioner who can create a plan tailored to your needs with our very own Amrutam App. So, food is power, Ayurveda is power and get ready to spice up your life – naturally!
