If you’re anything like me, navigating perimenopause can sometimes feel like riding a hormonal rollercoaster. I’ve noticed significant improvements in my symptoms as well as in my weight these past few months by making some simple changes to my diet. One of those changes has been including this Choc Raspberry hormone-balancing smoothie into my day. It’s as indulgent as it is nourishing and it’s been a game-changer for me; that’s why I’m sharing this little secret weapon with you today.
Understanding Hormonal Changes in Perimenopause
So, let’s talk hormones. As we enter midlife, our bodies start playing tricks on us, right? Fluctuating estrogen levels, mood swings that come out of nowhere, and don’t even get me started on the night sweats! It’s all part of the magical journey through perimenopause, leading up to the grand finale of menopause.
The Role of Nutrition in Hormone Balance
Now, I’m all about taking charge of my health, and one way I’ve found to tame the hormonal beast is through nutrition. Eating right can make all the difference. Think lots of lean protein, healthy fats, and antioxidant-rich foods to support our bodies through this transition.
Introducing the Hormone-Balancing Smoothie Recipe
Okay, brace yourselves, because this choc raspberry smoothie is about to blow your mind! Here’s what you’ll need:
1 cup of almond milk + half cup of cold water (or your favourite non-dairy milk)
1/2 cup of frozen raspberries (for a tangy twist)
A scoop of plant-based chocolate protein powder
1 scoop of unflavoured Collagen peptides (for smooth skin)
1 tablespoon of cacao powder (because chocolate makes everything better)
1tablespoon of MCT oil (hello, creamy goodness!)
1 teaspoon of flaxseeds (omega-3 powerhouses)
How do these ingredients balance my hormones?
Almond Milk: A dairy-free milk alternative rich in vitamin E, which acts as an antioxidant, supporting skin health and fighting inflammation. Its low-calorie content aids weight management, crucial for hormonal balance.
Raspberries: Bursting with antioxidants, raspberries combat oxidative stress and inflammation, promoting heart health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases, common concerns for women as they age.
Collagen Peptides: Vital for maintaining skin elasticity and joint health, collagen peptides are especially beneficial for women over 40, as collagen production declines with age.
Chocolate Protein Powder: Packed with essential amino acids, chocolate protein powder supports muscle repair and growth, crucial for women’s metabolic health and overall strength.
Cacao Powder: Rich in flavonoids and magnesium, cacao powder aids in mood regulation and supports cardiovascular health, both important aspects of women’s well-being.
Flax Seeds: Abundant in omega-3 fatty acids and lignans, flax seeds contribute to hormonal balance and may alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings.
MCT Oil: A source of healthy fats, MCT oil provides sustained energy, enhances cognitive function, and aids in weight management, all vital components of women’s health and hormonal balance.
How to Prepare the Smoothie
Now, let’s whip up this magical elixir! Toss all those glorious ingredients into your blender and give it a whirl until it’s smooth and creamy. Pour it into your favourite glass, and voila! You’ve got yourself a decadent treat that’s as good for your hormones as it is for your taste buds.
Benefits of Incorporating the Smoothie into Your Routine
So, why bother with this choc raspberry concoction? Well, besides the fact that it tastes like dessert for breakfast, it’s packed with all the good stuff your body craves during perimenopause. Think balanced hormones, boosted energy levels, and mood stability to keep those mood swings at bay.
Alright, ladies, it’s time to take control of our hormones and embrace this beautiful stage of life with open arms (and a blender full of choc raspberry goodness). If you want more tips and tricks to help navigate your Peri/menopause journey be sure to follow me over on Instagram or try some of Over 40 Workouts designed with the Peri/menopausal women in mind on YouTube. Cheers to nourishing our bodies, balancing our hormones, and living our best lives—perimenopause and all!
