Managing Mood Swings During Perimenopause

Irritability, frustration, deep sadness – even rage. 

They’re not uncommon feelings for women experiencing perimenopause. 

Can you relate? 

Well instead of drowning in guilt, assuming you have to live with it, or thinking you’re going crazy – let’s talk about what’s actually going on.

Because it’s nowhere near as uncommon as you may think. 

In fact, along with hot flushes, mood swings are the most commonly reported symptom for women during perimenopause. Multiple research studies have found both issues are reported in over 70% of perimenopausal women. 

So why the wild fluctuations in mood? 

Well one of the markers of perimenopause is the body’s natural decline in the hormones progesterone and estrogen.

And while progesterone takes on a steady decline, estrogen can be a little more volatile. 

It can fluctuate between low levels and being in excess. And unfortunately, this variation can even happen within one day. 

Much like those few days before the end of your menstrual cycle. 

But how does this impact my mood?

Well fluctuations in estrogen can have a big impact on the health of the bacteria in your gut. 

And this change of state in your gut microbiome will also affect the receptors on the hormone, serotonin – otherwise known as the ‘happy hormone’.  

With 95% of the body’s serotonin manufactured by the bacteria in our gut – this impact on our moods can be understandably huge.  

So how do I support my happy hormones?

Well the answer will now make complete sense – to support your gut health.  

And the best way to do that is to start with the right anti-inflammatory diet starting with The Holland Clinic’s Nourish and Flourish 5-Day Meal Plan. This diet will help you to balance your moods, reduce any anxiety and increase your energy levels. 

Download the Meal Plan by clicking on the image below and get back to being calmer and enjoying your day.