Dear readers,
today we’re going to be tackling a subject that closely affects your well-being in your everyday life as a woman: your relationship with sugar during the menopause.

Today, we’re going to find out together how your body changes and how you can look after yourself gently and kindly.

Imagine your body as a perfectly tuned orchestra. For years, the hormones have played their symphony in total harmony. Then comes the menopause, and suddenly certain instruments begin to play more softly, particularly oestrogen. This change in tempo has an impact on the way your body handles sugar.

Perhaps you’ve noticed that the sweet foods you used to love seem to have a different effect now? Don’t worry: it’s not your imagination playing tricks on you! With the drop in oestrogen, your body can become less sensitive to insulin, the famous hormone that regulates blood sugar. It’s as if the door that lets sugar into your cells becomes harder to open because the lock has seized up.

Let’s talk about those kilos that seem to invite themselves without permission. Weight gain during the menopause is a common concern, and sugar can play a part in the equation. Metabolism naturally slows with age and hormonal changes can make you more likely to store excess calories, particularly around the waist.

But don’t be discouraged! It doesn’t have to be this way. Understanding the link between sugar and your body in transition gives you the power to act. It’s not a question of depriving yourself, but rather of learning to listen to your body and offer it what it really needs.

The emotional rollercoaster of the menopause is very real, and sugar can sometimes seem to be your best ally at these times. A square of chocolate here, a biscuit there… These little sweet comforts can give you a momentary boost. But beware, this pleasure can be short-lived.

Fast spikes and drops in blood sugar levels can exacerbate mood swings, irritability and even anxiety. It’s like giving your body a burst of energy, followed by a sudden drop. Not very pleasant, is it? The good news is that by understanding this mechanism, you can make choices that help stabilise your mood over the long term.

Ah, the nights… They can become a real challenge during the menopause. Hot flushes and night sweats are disruptive enough, but did you know that sugar can also play spoilsport? Some studies suggest that a diet rich in sugar can intensify these symptoms.

Imagine that your body is trying to rest but is constantly being woken up by heat waves. By reducing your sugar intake, especially in the evening, you are offering your body an environment that is more conducive to sleep. Good rest is so precious and is the key to good health, isn’t it?

Bone health becomes a priority during the menopause. With the reduction in oestrogen, bones can lose their density more quickly. Unfortunately, high sugar consumption can complicate matters. Sugar can promote inflammation in your body and potentially accelerate bone loss.

But don’t worry, this is no reason to panic! Rather, it’s an invitation to pamper your bones with a balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. Every little bit helps to keep your bones strong and healthy.

After the menopause, the risk of heart disease naturally increases. That’s a fact, but it’s not a foregone conclusion. Excessive sugar consumption can contribute to high blood pressure, increased triglycerides and weight gain, all of which are risk factors for your heart.

Think of it as an opportunity to show your heart the love it deserves. By cutting down on sugar and adopting a balanced diet, you’re giving your heart the best conditions to keep beating strong and long.

The menopause is a time when your body needs all the essential nutrients to get through this transition smoothly. Unfortunately, a diet rich in sugar can deprive you of these precious allies. It’s a bit like filling your fuel tank with low-quality fuel, and the result is a clogged engine !

Instead, treat your body to a feast of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Fruit, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and good fats are all treasures that support your overall health during this period.

Now that you have a better understanding of the impact of sugar, how can you be kind to yourself? Here are a few suggestions inspired by Jessie Inchauspé’s advice, which can help you keep your blood sugar levels stable :

• Balance your meals:
  Add protein, healthy fats and fibre to each meal. It’s like creating a protective cushion for your blood sugar.

• Choose friendly carbohydrates:
  Opt for complex carbohydrates that release their energy slowly. Vegetables, legumes and whole grains are excellent choices.

• Listen to your body:
  Eat according to your hunger, without depriving yourself or forcing yourself. Moderate, regular portions can help you maintain stable energy throughout the day.

• Stay hydrated:
  Water is your best friend! It can help regulate your blood sugar levels and reduce sugar cravings.

• Enjoy exercise:
  Physical activity is a wonderful way of regulating blood sugar levels. Find an activity you enjoy, whether it’s dancing, walking, pilates or yoga.

• Take care of your stress:
  Stress can spike your blood sugar. Treat yourself to moments of relaxation, whether through meditation, deep breathing or simply taking a relaxing bath. 

Dear friends, the menopause is a transition, not an ordeal. By understanding how sugar interacts with your body during this period, you empower yourself to take action for your well-being. Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about progress and moving in the right direction. Every little step counts.

Be gentle with yourself, listen to your body and celebrate this new phase in your life.

You are strong, you are beautiful, and you deserve to feel great at every stage of your journey. Together, let’s tame this new relationship with sugar and embrace the wisdom and freedom that menopause can bring you.

Take control of your health with our irresistible sugar-free recipes.

Sources :

• https://menopause.org/press-releases/new-meta-analysis-shows-that-hormone-therapy-can-significantly-reduce-insulin-resistance

• https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/menopause-and-insomnia-could-a-low-gi-diet-help-2020011718710

• https://www.nih.gov/news-events/news-releases/chronic-sleep-deficiency-increases-insulin-resistance-women-especially-postmenopausal-women