Ever feel like you’re doing “everything right” but your body is screaming at you for something more? Those late-night sugar binges, energy crashes, or rollercoaster emotions might be your body waving a big red flag: you’re not eating enough. Or, maybe you’re overloading on processed macros that leave you undernourished and out of balance.
Here are some clear signs that your body is crying out for better fuel:
Sugar Cravings That Take Over
You’re fine all day. Eating healthy, feeling good. Then BAM! Come evening, it’s like sugar demons take over, and suddenly you’re knee-deep in chocolate wrappers wondering what just happened.
Bone-Tired Exhaustion
You wake up tired, drag yourself through the morning, then hit a weird energy surge around 11:00 am. By 3:00 pm, it’s crash city—you’d sell your soul for a nap, but even that doesn’t revive you. Then, magically, by 9:00 pm, you feel ready to party. Sound familiar?
Hormonal Havoc
During ovulation week and the week leading up to your period (yes, this can still happen even if you no longer menstruate), your body might feel like it’s running the show. You crave sugar and processed foods, feel hungry all the time, and your emotions can be all over the place. One moment, you’re on the verge of tears; the next, you’re fuming with a rage that seems to come out of nowhere. Your mood swings might feel as unpredictable as Melbourne weather, leaving you on edge and ready to snap. It’s a hormonal rollercoaster.
Snappy McSnappy-Pants
Everything sets you off. The kids, your partner, the neighbor’s barking dog, or a cup left in the sink—it’s all too much. That constant edge feels like anxiety mixed with a simmering volcano of frustration.
Stress, Anxiety, and Overwhelm
Your heart feels like it’s racing all the time. Little things send you spiraling into panic, and the thought of adding one more thing to your plate makes you want to hide under the doona forever. Life feels like a race you’re constantly losing.
If You Relate to Two or More of These… You’re Not Eating Enough. Period.
Yep, you read that right. Your calories are too low, and it’s wreaking havoc on your body. For those of us who grew up in the ’70s and ’80s, the “eat less, move more” mantra was drilled into us. Low fat, low calorie, starvation diets—it was all the rage. And sure, maybe it worked back in our 20s and 30s, but newsflash: that approach does NOT work in your 40s and 50s.
Here’s why:
- Back then, your oestrogen and progesterone were at their peak.
- You didn’t have elderly parents, kids, and/or careers competing for your energy.
- Social media, smart phones, and constant stress weren’t messing with your cortisol levels.
- You spent more time outside, letting natural sunlight regulate your circadian rhythm (body’s natural body clock).
- And let’s be real—less of your time was spent stressing over dumb stuff, like leaving dishes in the sink overnight.
Life is different now. Your body is different now. So why are you still following outdated advice that’s making things worse?
Here’s What You Need Instead
More calories. Yes, you heard me right—MORE. Starving yourself on 1200-1300 calories isn’t “discipline”, it’s self-sabotage! And macros coming from packaged food, are negative calories that your body can’t use! Those symptoms you’re blaming on menopause, are your body’s desperate plea for proper nutrition!
Here’s what you need to do:
- Eat more. Focus on 4 full meals a day made up of nutrient-dense, whole foods.
- Drink more water. Aim for 2-3 litres daily to stay hydrated and help your body function at its best.
- Ditch the calorie obsession. Start nourishing your body instead of depriving it!
This Isn’t Complicated. It’s a Game Changer.
When you fuel your body the way it needs, those sugar cravings, energy crashes, mood swings, and constant stress start to disappear. You’ll feel balanced, energised, and ready to take on whatever life throws your way.
So, stop blaming perimenopause or menopause for everything. Start giving your body the fuel it deserves and watch how your life changes.
You’ve got this! 💪
– Coach Terri
