MENOPAUSE
Meno matters
Author Kate Codrington shares some unusual and less-talkedabout symptoms that can arise in the build-up to menopause.
1 DIGESTIVE PROBLEMS
Suddenly find yourself running for the loo? Even without a curry supper, perimenopause can bring all sorts of discomfort such as bloating and diarrhoea, because there are oestrogen receptors all over your body, including the gut. There are probably loads of things in your cupboards already that will help: sesame seeds, tahini, flax/linseeds and lentils will help ease the discomfort. Bone broth can be a wonderful soother, too; pop the bones from your Sunday roast into a saucepan and boil them up for a nourishing brew.
● Turn to our special gut health section starting on p 41!
2 Feeling angry
Are you suddenly raging against everything? Don’t worry, you’re not losing the plot, it’s a perimenopause thing! What’s happening is that your discernment has sharpened and you are better able to see the truth of what’s going on around you. As midlife women, we often have a back-catalogue of unexpressed anger, and it’s time now to find ways to express it safely so it doesn’t leak out so much in your daily life. You might choose to talk about it with friends, write it out in a journal, or you might find release through dancing or learning a martial art – or literally punching cushions!
3 BURNING TONGUE
Burning in your mouth or on your tongue is a strange phenomenon that can also be linked to perimenopause. It can come and go and also cause your sense of taste to change. Your first point of call is to see your dentist to rule out any other potential causes, but to manage this in the long term, reducing sugar and fizzy drinks (yes, that includes Prosecco) and a mindful practice that gives you pleasure, will have an impact.
4 Sore feet
Painful heels, arches or plantar fasciitis can start in your 40s because the lower levels of oestrogen reduces elasticity in muscles and tendons. It’s made worse by unhelpful shoes, and dehydration also plays a part. Save the ruby slippers for special occasions – for everyday life, prioritise how your feet feel over how they look. To manage the pain and improve flexibility, pop a plastic bottle of water in the freezer, and roll it under your soles every day while you watch TV, and don’t forget to sip water through the day, too.
5 BAL ANCE AND INNER EAR ISSUES
The fluctuation in hormones can cause distressing dizziness, especially if you are deeply fatigued. Consult your doctor to rule out other factors, and manage your blood sugar by eating regular, healthy snacks. Filling your tanks from a depleted state can take a while, so commit to ongoing rest and good hydration habits.
6 Cystitis
A burning sensation whe
