Navigating Perimenopause: Foods to Boost Your Mood and Memory

A wonderful time of life when mood swings are as common as afternoon coffee breaks, and your memory decides to play hide-and-seek at the most inconvenient moments. Yes, we're talking about perimenopause, that transitional phase that signals the approach of menopause. If you're in your 40s and wondering whether you're experiencing it, you're not alone.

In a recent study in 2019 by Health & Her, memory loss, joint aches, mood swings and poor sleep are some of the most common symptoms reported by people in their 40s. Surprisingly, the symptoms we often associate with perimenopause, like hot flushes and night sweats, were less commonly reported. This underscores the need for education about perimenopause, as many people may be going through it without realising it.

So, what can you do to sail through this phase? The answer might just be in your kitchen, and at The Source Bulk Foods, we've got some fantastic healthy options for you.

Understanding Perimenopause

Perimenopause is the stage where your body begins to prepare for menopause. It typically starts in your 40s but can begin earlier. Hormone fluctuations during this time can lead to a rollercoaster of emotions and memory lapses that might make you question your sanity.

I'll be honest; I might be in this stage already. I have been blaming hot flushes on our unseasonably hot September weather. And as for my forgetfulness, I assumed my mind was scattered due to the demands of running a business. I am in my mid-40s, so it is quite possible that these symptoms are indeed perimenopausal. Sometimes I can feel my mind clunking gears as I try to remember conversations I had just hours before. Welcome to perimenopause!

Mood Boosters from Nature

Fortunately, there are foods that can help brighten those cloudy days. Dark chocolate, for example, contains compounds that can enhance your mood. Any excuse really am I right? Nuts are another great option, packed with nutrients that support brain health. Walnuts are often considered the top choice for brain health. They are packed with omega-3 fatty acids, particularly alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which has been associated with improved cognitive function and memory. The best part? You can find these mood-boosting treats at The Source Bulk Foods, where we prioritise high quality food without the packaging.

Memory-Friendly Foods

Losing your keys more often than you'd like? Seeds and blueberries might come to your rescue. These memory-boosting foods are rich in antioxidants and nutrients that support cognitive function. At the Source we have dried blueberry powder as well as dried blueberries. Why not try Matcha powder which contains an amino acid called L-theanine which can promote relaxation and improve focus and memory. Curcumin, found in our Organic Turmeric Powder, has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which can improve cognitive function. When you choose high-quality, organic options, you're not just nourishing your brain but also supporting sustainability.

Promoting Restful Sleep

Poor sleep is another pesky perimenopause symptom. One of the best approaches you can take is to reduce your caffeine intake in the afternoon. Substitute your afternoon flat white with a matcha latte or turmeric latte instead. Avoid blue light one hour before bed. Nuts are a powerhouse, and they can help promote sleep health. Almonds, walnuts and pistachios all contain melatonin which if consumed will help increase this hormone in your system to promote sleep.  Oats and soothing herbal teas can be your allies in the battle for a good night's sleep. Chamomile tea contains apigenin, a flavonoid that promotes sleepiness.  And guess what? You can find these sleep-inducing goodies at The Source Bulk Foods, where eco-consciousness is a way of life. We’ve just launched our Rest & Relax Sleep Tea, with a wonderful blend of Rosehip, Lemongrass, Peppermint, Chamomile, Rosehip, Spearmint, Valerian Root and Hibiscus, this expertly crafted combination contains all the best naturally soothing and restorative ingredients to help you relax and unwind.

A Bit of Humour

In the midst of hot flushes and memory lapses, remember to laugh. After all, humour is the best medicine, they say. Embrace this phase with a sense of humour, and don't be too hard on yourself. We've all been there, juggling life and hormones. Educate those in your life and workplace about the symptoms that you are experiencing. This will help to create more empathetic relationships and improve knowledge about this stage of life for 50% of the population.

Perimenopause might be a rollercoaster, but it's a ride we can navigate with grace and a few delicious allies from nature. Remember, you're not alone in this journey, and there's plenty of support available, including the healthy and sustainable food options at The Source Bulk Foods.