Perimenopause occurs when you start experiencing symptoms of menopause but continue to have periods. Symptoms of perimenopause may include weight gain, sleep disturbances, night sweats, hot flashes and irritability. As at other times in life, weight loss during menopause involves expending more calories than you take in. Your body can absorb and combat many toxins, such as environmental pollutants, and the numerous detoxifying diets and products available have potentially dangerous effects or are ineffective. A sensible way to lose weight during perimenopause includes regular exercise, drinking enough water, eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of sleep.
Step 1
Exercise regularly. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, exercise can reduce hot flashes and improve your mood. Weight-bearing exercise such as walking helps to keep bones strong, lower cholesterol and fend off osteoporosis, while enhancing memory and concentration. Another benefit of exercise is sweating, which may help eliminate toxins. During exercise, your heart rate increases along with your metabolism, which burns fat that stores toxic metals such as mercury, according to Todd A. Born, N.D., of Bastyr Center for Natural Health. Consult with your doctor before beginning an exercise program.
Step 2
Drink water. Proper hydration is essential for metabolic functions and electrolyte balance in the body. As a general rule, you should drink enough water so that your urine is clear or straw colored. Drinking plenty of water will safely remove all metabolic waste products and environmental contaminants from the body without undue burden on the kidneys.
Step 3
Eat a balanced diet with plenty of fiber. A healthy diet, especially one that is low in saturated fat and cholesterol, will improve your health and may reduce the discomforts associated with perimenopause. Fruits and vegetables contain large quantities of nutrients and fiber, which are necessary for the elimination of waste via the intestinal tract.
Step 4
Get plenty of sleep. Although hot flashes and night sweats may disrupt your slumber, you'll sleep better if you establish healthy sleeping habits. Keep your bedroom quiet, cool and dark. Don't read in bed. Use your bed exclusively for sleep and sex. Eat light evening meals and maintain a regular bedtime. These lifestyle changes will help sustain and improve your sleep as you age.
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