What Midlife Women Need to Know About Fasting

Never in a million years did I ever think I would fast! I like food way too much! But this chapter of life has me looking at all the options. So I tried a 24 hour fast and am ecstatic with the results! My energy is up, my headache is gone, my bloated stomach is gone, and the scale tells me I've lost 4.2 pounds of inflammation and toxins. So let's look at the science of fasting and why it can help so much in perimenopause.

Have you noticed you crave sweets more than you did 10 years ago? During perimenopause, your body can become less efficient at handling insulin. This leads to issues with blood sugar control. I have felt this for sure! Fasting can help improve insulin sensitivity, resulting in fewer energy crashes and more balanced energy throughout the day.

Fasting triggers a natural process called autophagy. This is a process where your body cleans out damaged cells and regenerates new ones. Think of it as a deep cleanse for your cells, promoting overall health. And chronic inflammation is common during perimenopause. Fasting can help lower inflammation levels. It's like giving your body a chance to reset and heal. And fasting supports your body's natural detoxification processes, allowing your liver and other organs to remove toxins more effectively. This can leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized. I swear I look more vibrant today after fasting yesterday. Goodbye old cells, toxins, and inflammation!

The midlife midsection is no joke! I miss the days when I could eat anything but now if I even look at a cookie my pants get tighter. Fasting can help with weight management. A 24-hour fast helps regulate hunger hormones like ghrelin, reducing overall appetite and making it easier to listen to your body and eat mindfully. I noticed this yesterday as I found myself wandering into the kitchen thinking I wanted a snack but I wasn't hungry..it is a bad habit I have!

Want to think clearer? Fasting supports brain health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation. This can enhance cognitive function. I was surprised how clear and focused I felt yesterday and today! Mental clarity can be a wonderful benefit of fasting as you navigate the mental challenges of perimenopause.

Fasting can improve gut health. By taking a break from eating, you give your digestive system a chance to rest and recover. Some studies suggest that periodic fasting can extend lifespan by improving metabolic health and reducing the risk of age-related diseases.

But let's be honest. Fasting for 24 hours wasn't easy! My body was like hey what's going on here. My bad habits showed themselves clearly. I'm sad, I eat. I'm bored, I eat. It made me acutely aware of how much mindless eating I do in a day. And I was hungry at lunchtime. But I followed the 5 Day Drop Metabolic Reset guidelines which made it easier. This program supported my body with minerals, probiotics, and water. And I felt super proud of myself at the end of the day. Fasting can help you build self-discipline and promote a more mindful approach to eating, fostering a healthier relationship with food.

I had a great experience with a 24-hour fast but it's important to approach fasting with care. You should consult with a healthcare professional before starting a fasting regimen, especially if you have underlying health conditions or concerns. Most importantly remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body's signals during a fast. I'd love to hear from you. Have you fasted? And what were your results?