Who else loves some chocolate, mmm chocolate and I bet you’ve heard that sugar isn’t great for you but does it have an impact on menopausal symptoms.

Today, I’ll give you the lowdown and you can decide whether it’s time to cut back on the nightly sweet treat.

Menopause is a natural process that all women go through, typically around the age of 50. It marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years and comes with a host of physical and emotional changes. One of the most commonly experienced symptoms is hot flushes, which can be uncomfortable and disruptive to daily life. Many women turn to lifestyle changes to help alleviate their symptoms, including changes to their diet. One food that has been shown to have an impact on menopausal symptoms is sugar.

So, how exactly does sugar affect menopausal symptoms?

Well, research has found that consuming too much sugar can actually worsen hot flushes. This is because sugar causes a rapid spike in blood sugar levels, which can trigger hot flushes in some women. Additionally, sugar can also disrupt the body’s natural hormone balance, which can exacerbate other symptoms like mood swings and irritability.

But before you go swearing off all sugar for good, it’s important to note that not all sugars are created equal.

Natural sugars found in fruits and vegetables are typically healthier options than processed sugars found in sweets and soft drink. Eating a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables can help provide your body with the necessary nutrients it needs while also helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

In addition to the type of sugar you consume, the amount of sugar you consume can also have an impact on menopausal symptoms. Research has found that women who consume higher amounts of added sugars have an increased risk of developing hot flushes and other menopausal symptoms. To reduce your sugar intake, try swapping out sugary snacks and drinks for healthier options like fresh fruit, nuts, and water.

Another factor to consider when it comes to sugar and menopausal symptoms is the timing of sugar consumption.

Consuming sugar before bed can disrupt sleep, which can exacerbate other symptoms like mood swings and fatigue. To promote better sleep, try to avoid consuming sugary snacks or drinks at least a few hours before bedtime.

Looks like we all need to become ‘day drinkers’ and stop the ‘late night sweet treats’ if we have any hope of a good nights sleep again 🤣.

Overall, while sugar can have a negative impact on menopausal symptoms, it’s important to remember that moderation is key. Eliminating all sugar from your diet isn’t necessary or even realistic for most people. I know the thought of never have a sweet treat again, just makes me want it more. Instead, try to focus on making healthier choices when it comes to the type and amount of sugar you consume. By doing so, you can help alleviate your menopausal symptoms and improve your overall health and well-being.

Remember, moderation, consistency and creating a healthy lifestyle is the key to long term results! Nothing should be banned forever but the key is to know how much your body can tolerate to feel your best.