Minimising and Preventing Symptoms of Menopause; Insights from Jamie Friend - “The Friendly Naturopath”
In this podcast interview I was so excited to chat with Jamie Friend, a qualified naturopath who I met while undergoing a yoga teacher training several years ago. In this discussion we dive into an enlightening conversation where Jamie shares invaluable advice on managing the transition from perimenopause to menopause, and the things we can do before it’s onset to minimise the chances of struggling through the associated symptoms.
You can listen to the podcast here on Spotify or Apple Podcasts, and read the summary below.
Understanding Menopause and Perimenopause
Jamie explains the stages leading to menopause, starting with pre-menopause characterized by regular menstrual cycles, moving to perimenopause where hormonal fluctuations cause changes in cycle frequency and flow, and finally, menopause, which is marked by the cessation of menstrual periods for twelve months, typically around the age of 51.
Symptoms and Natural Management Strategies
Key symptoms during this transition can include hot flashes, mood swings, sleep disturbances, and changes in menstrual flow. Jamie stresses the importance of recognizing these symptoms early and discusses natural and lifestyle interventions that can alleviate them. She emphasizes the role of exercise, particularly resistance training, in maintaining bone density and cardiovascular health, which are critical during and after menopause.
Nutritional Tips for Menopausal Health
Diet plays a crucial role in managing menopausal symptoms. Jamie recommends incorporating phytoestrogens found in foods like soybeans and flax seeds, which can help balance estrogen levels. She also highlights the importance of calcium and vitamin D for bone health, suggesting sun exposure and supplementation as necessary, especially in less sunny climates like Melbourne's winters.
Exercise Recommendations
Jamie advises regular exercise, tailored to lessen menopausal symptoms and improve overall health. Resistance training is particularly beneficial, while activities that could exacerbate symptoms like hot flashes, such as hot yoga, might be best avoided.
Personal Success Stories and Final Thoughts
Sharing success stories from her practice, Jamie illustrates how integrating simple lifestyle changes can significantly improve health outcomes during menopause. She advocates for starting healthy habits early, which can ease the transition through menopause.
Jamie’s passion for naturopathy and her holistic approach to health is palpable throughout the discussion. For those seeking guidance through menopause or interested in naturopathic solutions, Jamie’s practice, The Friendly Naturopath, offers a wealth of knowledge and a supportive environment.
Thank you, Jamie, for your insights and for reminding us of the power of natural health practices. For more details on Jamie’s work or to book a consultation, visit her website.
