Menopause - The Role of Protein, Epigenetics, and Individuality

Menopause and perimenopause can be a rollercoaster, both physically and emotionally. From hot flashes to unexplained fatigue, weight fluctuations, and mood swings, many women find themselves searching for answers only to be met with generalized advice from health care practitioners and our so-called ‘science’. The truth is, you are a unique individual and no one-size-fits-all model will fully be able to address each of your specific needs.

While this time may feel overwhelming, I’m here to remind you of the power you do have and to draw a few connections between your internal and external environments. Here are three things you can take with you as you navigate this period of perimenopause and menopause.

#1 The Connection with Protein

One of the most overlooked but critical aspects of managing menopause symptoms is protein intake. Protein is essential for hormonal health, metabolic function, tissue repair, and so much more. The topic of protein intake includes two very crucial pieces: the first is your protein consumption and the second is how well you are able to digest, absorb, and metabolize the protein you do take in. If either of these aspects of protein intake are not being met, we will see compensations in the body and more severe menopausal symptoms. 

#2 Epigenetics

Popular ‘science’ and the mainstream medical system would have you believe that it is your genes that will dictate how your life will unfold and the health and vitality you can expect to have in this lifetime. I’m here to tell you that the narrative is a lie. It’s not just my opinion, even though I have one with over 30 years of clinical experience, but current science and specifically genetic researcher and author, Dr. Bruce Lipton and author Dr. Joe Dispenza both teach these concepts worldwide at their conferences. Epigenetics says: You are not your genes. You have power over how your genes express themselves.

For example, let’s say you have a genetic predisposition to iron overload (hemochromatosis) or a “bad” heart gene with the tendency to heart disease. If you lead a lifestyle that prioritizes balanced nutrition, stress management, quality sleep, and proper detoxification, your body may never actually express that gene. On the other hand, if you’re constantly under stress, consuming a poor diet, and exposed to environmental toxins, your body may activate that gene, leading to oxidative stress and a cascade of health issues. In other words, your environment influences your genes and they are either expressing or not expressing themselves. So, you do have some control over your environment in many ways. You can choose your thoughts, where you place your focus, what you eat, what you read and watch - all of which influence your internal and external environment.

What can you do? Prioritize eating whole foods, being in low-stress environments, accessing clean air and water, getting quality sleep, and exposing yourself to natural sunlight. I’m not asking for perfection, just inspiring you to give your body the tools and resources to better handle adversity so that you can enjoy a freedom lifestyle.

#3 You Are Unique

The very fortunate reality is that there is no one else exactly like you. Many healthcare providers and mainstream health narratives fail to recognize the beautiful complexity of each individual’s unique biochemical makeup. If you are looking for support from a health care practitioner for your menopausal journey, choose someone who will take into consideration your specific needs, history, diet, lifestyle, and imbalances – whether structural, hormonal, or metabolic.

Instead of looking to mainstream science or health fads for advice, start listening to what your body is telling you. Pay attention to how different foods, exercise routines, and lifestyle habits make you feel. Ask questions. Stay curious. And most importantly, remember that you are not a victim of your genes — you are the creator of your health destiny. 

If you found this discussion valuable, be sure to subscribe and stay tuned for more insights on optimizing your health and well-being. If you want to dive deeper into your health journey with a practitioner who seeks to empower you to live your freedom lifestyle, let’s connect.