Naturopathic support for menopause
In Naturopathic Medicine, the approach to helping menopausal women with hormonal support and weight issues focuses on addressing the underlying imbalances in the body and supporting natural processes. The treatment plan integrates natural therapies, lifestyle modifications, and dietary adjustments to achieve sustainable weight loss.
Here’s an outline of the Naturopathic treatment approach:
I. Naturopathic Assessment:
A. Comprehensive health history to understand individual needs and concerns
B. Evaluation of hormonal imbalances related to menopause
C. Assessment of thyroid function and metabolism
D. Identification of any other contributing factors such as stress, sleep disturbances, or digestive issues
In our initial appointment, I take a full and detailed health assessment, ask you what you need from me, and work out if there is any further testing which needs to take place.
II. Herbal Medicine
A. Utilisation of specific herbs to support hormonal balance during menopause
B. Herbs that may aid in weight loss by boosting metabolism or reducing appetite
C. Customised herbal formulations tailored to the individual’s needs
Herbal medicine is uniquely suited to providing specific symptomatic as well as hormonal and energy balancing effect. I generally make a two week mix, in order to confirm your personal response to the herbs, then go on with a longer term version, in order to provide a positive outcome.
III. Nutrition and Diet
A. Individualised dietary plan based on body composition and health goals
B. Emphasis on whole, nutrient-dense foods with a focus on real food options
C. Incorporation of foods with natural phytoestrogens to support hormonal balance
D. Mindful eating practices to address emotional eating patterns
I recommend starting with a real food low carb diet, in order to make change, get into ketosis, which then allows change to take place. If weight loss is a focus, I do this via a one-on-one weekly check in appointment using the Ultra Lite Low Carb eating program.
IV. Lifestyle Modifications
A. Encouragement of regular physical activity tailored to the individual’s preferences and capabilities
B. Stress-reduction techniques such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises
C. Promotion of restorative sleep habits to support hormone regulation and weight loss
Sleep is key to wellness, and I will always work to support better quality restorative sleep in my patients. Supporting stress response, and encouraging regular exercise are key to allowing for better sleep and recovery. I work alongside two experienced counsellors, who can offer support for stress, mental health and better habits.
V. Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Acupuncture
A. Incorporation of acupuncture to address specific imbalances and support weight loss
B. Targeting acu-points related to digestion, metabolism, and hormonal regulation
I am lucky enough in my clinic to have Nick Livingston who offers TCM Acupuncture for effective hormonal balancing, alongside my programs.
VI. Follow-up and Monitoring
A. Regular follow-up visits to assess progress and adjust the treatment plan if necessary
B. Ongoing support and guidance to maintain motivation and compliance
I find that booking appointments for the future permits us to offer ongoing accountability, as well as offering availability of access to tracking change.
VII. Education and Empowerment
A. Providing educational resources on menopause, weight loss, and healthy lifestyle practices
B. Empowering women to take an active role in their health and well-being
My role is always to help to educate my patients to how to better manage their own health, to support them to live their own best life going forward.
VIII. Collaboration with Other Healthcare Providers
A. Working in conjunction with conventional medical practitioners as needed, especially in cases of severe hormonal imbalances or medical conditions
I am always happy to correspond with your other health care practitioners, and keep open communication about our ongoing treatment plans and expected outcomes.
It’s essential to remember that every individual’s needs are unique, and a Naturopathic treatment plan should be tailored to the person’s specific health profile and preferences.
Please book in via my website to start the discussion on how to support your best health throughout the menopause transition.
Eve Armytage
27 Jul 2023.
