Hormones play a significant role in how our body manages weight. One such hormone is cortisol, often referred to as the stress hormone, which can lead to weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, when chronically elevated. This response is a survival mechanism but leads to the conversion of muscle proteins into sugar and fat.

Menopause often brings with it a host of uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, largely due to changes in hormonal levels. With the ovaries reducing their estrogen production, the adrenal glands pick up the slack, but if they are not functioning optimally due to previous stressors, this can exacerbate symptoms.

Supporting adrenal health is beneficial, which can be bolstered by increasing cholesterol intake through foods like shellfish, providing more raw materials for hormone synthesis. Additionally, using progesterone cream may help balance hormone levels, mitigating some of menopause’s harshest side effects.

A common challenge on any diet, including keto, is managing sugar cravings. Despite a low-carb regimen aimed at reducing these cravings by shifting the body’s energy source from sugar to fat, cravings can persist if temporary diet lapses occur. Increasing berberine intake can help stabilize blood sugar, while reducing meal frequency promotes fat burning.

The liver is integral to producing stress-related hormones by synthesizing cholesterol. Alarm over cholesterol levels often overlooks its essential role in bodily functions like the production of hormones necessary during stress responses and menopause.

Nutritional preparation is crucial for women at advanced maternal age seeking conception. Emphasizing the intake of vitamin D, trace minerals (such as iodine and zinc), and lowering food restrictions can promote better fetal development. Additionally, maintaining a nutrient-rich diet over an intermittent fasting plan could benefit fertility and overall maternal health.

• Support adrenal health with proper cholesterol intake.
• Use natural supplements like berberine for blood sugar management.
• Diversify diet to include key trace elements important for child development.