The BS File #1
I am 51. I still have a very consistent cycle but I’m definitely having all of the perimenopausal symptoms. I’m not sleeping well, I’m moody, I have brain fog, and more. Some may even say I’m a raging lunatic. So, let’s dive into what I’ve tried recently to help alleviate that.
I was pointed in the direction of Dr. Tassone out of Round Rock, Tx so I wanted to give him a try to see what he would recommend. He ordered the Estradiol patch and progesterone for sleep. (My estrogen and testosterone levels were pretty normal really; he based it off of feel) I only wore the patch for 24 hours and removed it. I tried to cut it in half first, but I still didn’t like how it made me feel. I felt jittery and like my heart was racing. I opted out. I decided quickly that medicine may not be for me since I’m normally very sensitive to medications. I paid $300 for the first visit with him. I’m undecided if I will see him again.
He did recommend low dose Naltrexone for my very high dhea levels which are most likely due to stress. I’ve read very good reviews about that. It is not commonly prescribed but to be honest, I’ve just been scared to try it because of the possible side effects. I am impressed by his knowledge of it. I love when doctors step outside the box.
I decided to try other avenues to help with my shitty energy levels and hormonal rage. I started juicing. I also started red-light therapy on my thyroid and I have been more consistent with the sauna for detox. I walk 30 min a day 5 days a week, and weight train at least 3 days week. I also started self-massage for lymphatic drainage. I’m learning those of us with tattoos definitely need to be doing that daily.
Oh, and I started drinking a lot more water. Like I need to pee every 15 minutes kind of water.
This week, I’ll talk juicing. I started with celery juice and ginger/turmeric shots. Firstly, having a good juicer is important. Let’s face it, if it’s a pain in the ass to clean, how often will we really do it? I had an inexpensive juicer and after day 1, I bought a better one. I’ll link it here. It’s easy to assemble and break down for cleaning.
Now, from what I understand celery juice really needs to be consumed within 24 hours of juicing, so juicing it in advance is evidently not a good thing. That’s the first issue for me. I’m not juicing shit every single day. I need to do more research on that but honestly, I don’t think drinking straight celery juice is sustainable for me. I am like a 10 year old with tastes and it’s awful. I’ve read you should consume 16 oz daily and I never did more than 8 oz. I just couldn’t stomach more. I literally held my hand over mouth thinking that would keep the swamp water down. I may try mixing it with fruits to at least reap some of the benefits but for now, let’s move on to the ginger/turmeric.
I was able to do enough of those for the full week. I froze them by pouring them into ice trays with lids. I put 3 cubes ( 2 oz.) out to thaw for 25 min until they are slushy and down it. I prefer it frozen and slushy. It goes down easier for me (hence the 10-year-old taste issues). It’s like a turmeric/ginger snow cone texture.
I’ve tried turmeric chews and ginger things and never noticed a difference with my inflammatory issues like I did with these. My belly went down and I was definitely less puffy in my face. I was even eliminating more consistently (did that sound very demure and much better than pooping?).
I am absolutely sold on the shots and will continue with those.
I actually used my blender for the shots, then poured it through a strainer. After seeing numerous videos of that option, I decided it would be much easier and quicker for me than juicing.
The recipe I used was:
2 organic oranges
2 organic lemons
1 tablespoon of raw organic local honey
2 inches of ginger
2 tsp powdered tumeric
I added a tiny bit of water (next time I will add coconut water)
1/8 teaspoon of pepper
Here are the links to my ice trays https://amzn.to/4hAax0b and my blender https://amzn.to/3WFgzo3; however, I’m sure most of you have a blender. I’ll also link my red light https://amzn.to/4axrJkD that I use at home. I recommend joining a gym that has a sauna and red light. Crunch is actually a very inexpensive option that has everything you need.
Moral of my story is that unfortunately, I don’t believe there is an easy fix to my hormonal issues. I have Hashimoto's disease and I’m perimenopausal. It’s going to take lifestyle changes and proper nutrition for me to feel better and I’m willing and ready to put in the work. I’ll keep you posted on all of the changes. I am feeling better so far, although I’m still technically a slight bit insane. Hopefully that will improve with time.
Let’s normalize talking about the challenges of hormonal changes and the problems that arise from it. Together we can get through it. We can help each other by sharing what works for us. There isn’t a one size fits all but what works for me, may work for some. It’s also nice to know that I’m not the only one who may try to run someone over with my car. Or am I?
Today, I touched on just a few things that I’m doing, and I will continue to address hormones to keep you posted on what works and what doesn’t work for me. I’ll speak on supplements soon. I hope you let me know your wins as well.
Now, go kick this week’s ass. Exercise, drink your water, detox, and take care of your body. We only have one, and I’m not giving up on mine any time soon.
Love ya,
B