TOFFs in Menopause

[mariejoe]

I know you ladies have gone or are going through menopause. Maybe we can share here some of the things that made menopause bearable.
I know this has been discussed in the General Health section, but maybe some "light" stuff.
Whaddya says, gals??

[RoseTattoo]

I'm with you, Mariejoe. :) Be glad to chat anytime.

[ALEKA]

Hi Rose Tatoo--I've been through it so am willing to tell you all how I hung out the door in the middle of winter panting and trying to fan myself cool:lol:--Since I have been on this WOE--I somedays swear that I am back in it. I just get so hot. Well say good night for now. Catch you later. Alice

[mariejoe]

Rose, that is too funny.

I don't really have HOT flashes, they are sort of warmish, and usually in early evening.
Ever since femHRT made my hair thin, I'm off that crap, only using pormetrium to try and rebalance the old hormones.
I guess I don't really have too many menopause stories, I was hoping to get some chit-chat going here. There must be more than the three of us out there. Maybe no one thinks menopause has anything humorous going for it.

Didn't they used to say losing weight after "the change" was gonna be impossible. Guess we proved them wrong!!!

Calling all menopausal LCers!!!!!!! :read2:

[Gwennie S.]

Knocking on wood, I've only gotten hot flashes after I've had a couple of glasses of red wine, and then they hit me in the middle of the night. So I avoid wine. :lol:

Vit. E is really good for menopausal symptoms... :)

[Emmalou]

OK - here's my menopause story. I went through menopause about 4 years ago with no trouble: no symptoms, no hot flashes. My periods just gradually stopped. I started low-carbing several months ago and have lost about 30 pounds -- and in July I had a period and 25 days later another one in August. Some people have said my fat cells released estrogen they were storing. I'm waiting to see if this continues. Weird, isn't it?

[Chloesue]

Emmalou,
I had my last period in February then low and behold a few weeks ago it decides to pay me another visit.I sure was surprised since that was the longest I had gone without my monthly.Really thought I was in menopause but wasn't having any of the symptoms except for warm weather bothering me.I believe my internal thermostat is set a few notches higher now.
I started low carbing in January.Had my period in January then a month later in February then waited till August for another one.Now I am wondering if and when it will make another appearance.I'm 52 but soon to be 53 in another month.

I have also wondered if low carbing has made a difference in my periods at this stage of my life.

Nancy

[MariaDiana]

I'm 49 and my last period was beginning of August so I have officially skipped my first month ever since I began puberty! No flashes, nothing weird at all just no period and actually if any thing I feel better!
Still I went to see my gyn just in case and he explained to me that menopause is not an event, it usually takes 4-5 years for the body to cease altogether, hence the intermittent periods. I guess I'll just carry a pad with me.
I have been on many a diet in my life, it just seems to get slower and slower the weight loss as I get older, but I guess it still can be done, I'm hoping anyway, been on Atkins since Jan 03, lost 25, and am currently on a lovely plateau, out in a desert somewhere.
thanks for sharing!

[BKM]

My menopause "story":

In 1994, I weighed about 200#. I was 50 years old and hadn't had a period in almost 2 years.

I decided that I was going to "change my life" at 50, so I filed for (and got) a divorce, and went to an acupuncturist for weight loss (who started me low-carbing along with acupuncture treatments). I lost about 10 pounds the first week, then fell into a pattern of 2 pounds lost each week. I also had one last period??? (the acupuncturist said that wasn't all that uncommon as the body readjusts itself).

I lost my excess weight -- got down to 117# (probably too low for my 5'7", but I loved it -- everything I tried on looked good!). And I "lost" a bad marriage -- was that ever wonderful!

Now I am remarried (quite happily) and the weight has crept back up (151# this AM) -- maybe being happy makes you gain weight? I've had no more periods, never had any menopause symptoms -- though I did take HRT for a couple of months (and promptly gained about 10#, decided they weren't worth it!). It's fairly obvious that my hormone level is falling (face starting to wrinkle, knees bothering me) but all-in-all, quite healthy....

Bonnie :wiggle:

[nopie]

I'm 55 and haven't had a period in about a year and a half. I think I'm finally there and I love it. I still feel a little flashy now and then but I love the fact that I no longer have hormone fluctuations - I feel the same every day! Since I started low carbing and now lift weights and walk, I feel healthier and stronger than I have in years.
I used a low dose patch for a few months about five years ago and had to suffer through a couple of years of very heavy periods but am glad I never had to resort to taking hormones. The main thing I learned was that if you find something that makes you feel better, it will only work for a few months. The whole menopausal time is made up of ups and downs.

[soslosue]

I'm 50 and going thru the menopausal roller coaster HARD! Hot flashes, mood swings, DEPRESSION, anti-social behavior...been miserable now for about a year. Started some HRT last year which helped a little; then things started to slide downhill again so went back to the doctor and she prescribed something different (Progesteron and Estrogen combo) I have no family history of strokes or heart attacks so I'm going for it. I've also gained 25 or so pounds in this last year so I'm trying the Atkins program. Have been for 3 months now and have lost maybe 8 lbs (on a good day) my weight tends to fluctuate wildly from one week to the next...unfortunately all the fluctuations are mostly in the wrong direction...few are in the downhill direction..I've started walking on my treadmill this week (15 x 2 day) and I'm hotter than a pistol when I get off...the sweats are somewhat controlled by the HRT's so I'm not so "red-faced" when they hit...I still get a few at night. So then I'm tired most of the time..Have problems sleeping...oh well...enuf of that. I know it's gotta get better...can't get any worse.

[amika]

I'm 57 and my last period was five years ago. Last ones were a few months apart, maybe a trickle, and then a flood! :spin:. The very last time happened while I was replacing the receptionist at work in August of 98. :eek: Fortunately the skirt I was wearing dried in a jiffy with the hand-dryer in the ladies' room and the small fan on my desk took care of the chair :lol:

Never had hot flashes, related to menopause that is, only to food, especially carbs which push blood sugar levels up for a diabetic. So low-carbing pretty much takes care of that. Bouts of fatigue, weight gain, lack of sleep, and other ailments are related to a slow thyroïd, which is now being corrected by synthroid.

For a great number of women, thyroid functions slow down with age. It might be worth your while to check into that, Soslusue. You can find a lot of information and great advice in these forums. I've subscribed to the diabetes threads as well as the thyroid ones. :read: It might be wise not to assume that all problems are caused by menopause.

Mariejoe, this thread is a great idea :cheer:

Bye for now

Denyse

[soslosue]

Hi Amika! Thanks for mentioning my issues...I have had my thryoid checked annually (always hoping that "might" be the problem) since both my mother and sister have been diagnosed for underactive thyroid. But mine always comes back within the normal range. It's soooo frustrating! I've had my blood glucose tested and all that stuff and always I come back normal. For a heavy woman I have really low cholesterol (159) and low blood pressure...always in the 120 or 1-teen ranges over the 60's or 70's. But then my family also has no cholesterol or blood pressure issues...strange about genetics huh? They were all seriously overweight people too...I saw a family photo one time with my uncles (5 of them) and my mom and grandparents all lined up in a row...and every one of them was Overweight - big bellies on the men and big hips/thighs/bellies on the women...woe with us all. And now I'm in the fight of my life at 50 trying to get down out of the 200's...it's been a lifelong fight and now it's harder than ever...I used to find some success with calorie restrictive diets (Weight Watcher's and some others) and lots of exercise...but I honestly don't have the stuff anymore for all that calorie sacrificing in addition to all that exercise (I mean an hour a day of aerobics). Best I can do now is walking and using the treadmill.

Thanks for your words of encouragement...no harm in asking my doc for another thyroid test (I have great medical insurance so all the tests are covered).

[Kansas Deb]

Hi all, I am 52 I think my last TOM was 4 years ago, LOL just something I don't care if I remember or not. I didn't take HRT but did have some rather warm hot flashes. I began taking 1800 mg. of vitamine E, the maximum recommended amount. That pretty much took care of the hot flashes. They didn't completely go away but were much easier to bear. I just didn't want to take HRT at all. After about 2 years. I dropped the vitamine E back down to normal supplemental levels, the amount in the Atkins Basic #3.

[y2valerie]

oh so slosue im with you im 53 still having periods very heavy and painful dr said nothing wrong main concern i have suffered intermittent anxiety for 20yrs,but now there back with a vengence all the symptoms you have would love to know from other ladies will i ever feel normal again or will i ever stop menses

[Arizona B]

Hi Ladies,
Suslosue I know how you feel with the hot flashes. I just went through a 4 week stretch of the worse hot flashes you can imagine. Good news is they eventually go away. Atkins has really helped with the hot flashes and my night sweats are totaly gone. My Doctor says the hot flashes will come and go and eventually go away. I'm not taking any hormone replacement and I don't plan to. Before I retired I was a manager at a large retirement home. I was in charge of several dining rooms and I handled all of the catering for the building. My crews use to laugh I me because when I had a really bad hot flash I would go stand in the walk in cooler or the big freezer. It got to be a standing joke. When the crew saw me headed for the kitchen they would yell Hot Flash Alert !! My ears would turn bright red and I would be soaking wet. So, ladies if you feel like someone has just stuck a hot poker up your backside take heart in knowing there are others in the same boat. I'm still having my menses but they are not regular. I will go several months with out one and then it seems like someone has opened up the flood gates. I know alot of women who can't stand the thought of going through menopause because they feel like with out the menses they are somehow less of a woman. To these poor misguided creatures I say Get a Grip !! I can't wait to be rid of this once and for all. Think of it ladies. No cramps, no bleeding, no bloating, no headaches. I for one don't know what normal is but I can't wait to find out. Have a nice day and keep in touch.

[Arizona B]

Ladies,
I'm still having my TOM"S but they aren't regular. Since I've been on Atlins my hot flashes are almost gone. I retired a few years ago. I ran the catering service and managed several dining rooms for the Holiday Corporation. It was a running joke with my crews when it came to my hot flashes. I use to go stand in the big cooler or the freezer at work when I goy a really bad one. My ears would turn beat red and I would be soaking wet. Everytine I headed for the kitchen someone would yell, Heads up , Hot Flash time. So ladies, if any of you are feeling like someone just stuck a hot poker up your backside, welcome to my world ! I have several girlfriends that are whinning about not be a complete woman once they go through the chance. I say , Get Over It !! Think about it ladies, no more bloating, headaches, cramping or mood swings. The trick is to survive to the end. Hang in there and I'm here anytime to listen. Good luck to all.

[MariaDiana]

I wish it were over already! I'm 50 and still have regular periods. I find it a very big inconvenience. No flashes or anything yet about menopause, not that I can see anyway. My mom had her tom till her late 50's so I guess that's what I'm in for.
When I first began LC it did affect my period, it felt heavier, yikes.
now I'm just kinda plateaued, but have decided to watch my calories.
Oh I hate being hungry though!
But the only way I can really count every calorie is to eat very pricise portions, so I'm doing the LC drinks twice a day, then a small lc meal for dinner.
It's the evening eating that always seems to be too much, almost like I get the munchies after dinner, wanting something who knows what, sometimes sweet sometimes carby..always bad news.

[shirea]

i started the menopause when i was 47 my monthlies just stopped dead i did have a few flushes in the first year which i loved like going on your own little holiday especially in the winter
im now 58 so i have been lucky

[Rocks]

Arizona B, you made me laugh....thank you! :) I agree with ya on the waste of time that TOM feels like when it should be over. I had a weird situation with regards to hot flashes. I didn't get them, but I was cold, cold, cold to the bone. I had a space heater in the office and would wear a sweater in 70 degree temps and run the heater. I have been on synthroid since I was 12, so I had my thyroid checked and it was fine. I was still cold all the time....and then.....one day while clicking around the internet for symptoms of menopause, I found out. SOME folks don't get hot flashes, SOME are cold! I didn't know that!

[BKM]

Just noticed that I last posted on this thread 2 years ago....time sure does fly!

I've never had any menopausal symptoms (I'm now 61), other than (possibly related?) weight gain. But the weight is now off and I'm maintaining where I want (130 pounds at 5' 7"), and I've noticed that my knees are much better than they had been, wrinkling is somewhat minimized, and sore joints have loosened up.

I think the improvement in my health can be attributed to loss of weight, regular exercise, and eating well. I still "low-carb" but no longer "count my carbs", just make sure that what I eat is healthy -- no sugar, flour, white bread, etc. -- but I do eat whole-grained bread occasionally, even have a slice of real pizza every couple of months.

[MariaDiana]

My last post was over a year ago, since then, i had plateaued with the weight loss and so I began eating carby things again. I was getting so obsessed with counting carbs and calories I just got fed up. Understand, I have been on diets since age 11! I'm 51! enough already.
Still, I now weigh more than ever at just over 250, and feel pretty crappy. Don't know what to do but the dieting thing just doesn't attract me anymore, too tired of being hungry and cutting entire things out of the diet. I LOVE PIZZA AND PASTA.
Anyone out there having this sort of feeling? Please be honest!

Blessings~

siamo tutti figli della terra

[BKM]

MariaDiana:

Sorry to hear that your weight has crept back up ...

I have fairly well gotten over my cravings -- haven't touched pasta in years, pizza is an occasional treat ... so no, I haven't returned to carby food, nor do I plan to.

I think that something that helped me get over craving carby foods was the realization that, once I've finished eating, it makes absolutely no difference what I ate. There is no lingering "feel good" from eating incorrectly (and frequently there is actual stomach distress) -- so if I'm hungry and eat a piece of meat rather than a plate of spaghetti, then 15 miutes later I don't feel any different then if I had eaten the spaghetti -- so I might as well eat correctly and enjoy wearing size 6. I htink this is perhaps part of the reason that Atkins always encouraged eating enough to feel satisfied....

I've also very carefully "tasted" food -- and I found out that many foods that I used to cram into my mouth and overeat I actually don't like the taste of (for example french fries) -- somehow my body was requiring whatever they had (sugars/grease?) and I would wolf them down, never really tasting them -- but for some reason feeling that I just had to have them. I have since discovered that many of my old favorites were just mindless "have to haves" and taste pretty yucky.

I think that I've discovered how to eat food that tastes pretty good (to me, at least!) -- and I really appreciate the taste of blackberries, peaches, etc. -- and I savor these tastes rather than eating them quickly.

As usual I've rambled all over the place -- hopefully I've raised a few things to help you with.....

[noinwi]

I'm 54, had a partial hysterectomy(still have ovaries) at 30, been having hot flashes for about 7 years, to varying degrees. I've been on and off HRT, currently on. I have a question...have any of you ladies had an increase in hot flashes after starting a low carb diet? It seems once the HRT gets my HF's under control, I have break through HF's when I'm low carbing. This doesn't keep me from low carbing, though, as I always feel better in general when I do. I was just curious.

[saracidal]

hey ladies. i hope you don't mind havin a youngin in here. i feel kinda lost at the moment. :(
i am 25 and this is my 3rd time on atkins. i thought i was on maint. but i was diagnosed with pcos (along with a world of other health problems ie. fibromyalgia, sjogrens, transverse myelitis, to name a few) this past week i was told that i am insulin resistant, and that i am not producing estrogen and that i am going through menopause. i am now 11 months out from having a cycle. i suffer from hot flashes, night sweats, headaches, insomnia, depression, anti-social, and a rapid 30lbs in 3 weeks, weight gain. (all going to my mid section, along with major water retention) which is what prompted me to go to the dr. and that is how i found out i was suffering from menopause and i am insulin resistant. i was advised to go back on atkins (this time for good). i find that atkins is a LOT harder this time around. heck i went from 285lbs to 135lbs and that was ok. but for the life of me i can't get focused to go from 135 back down to 115-120lbs. my cravings are 10x's worse, and i feel like i go into a sugar binge fit (something i NEV ER had b4. is this something related to menopause. this is such foreign territory for me. and to be honest with you i am quite scared. i am way to young to be dealing with ALL these health problems. and i am a risk for potentially getting type 2 diabetes. and i cant stay focused. is atkins harder when youre in menopause? (is water retention / swelling common? if so, how do you / did you fix it?) i dont want to take hormones because my dr said there is still a possibility that my body may regulate, so i want to get fixed back up on atkins and get back on track and then worry about hormones. i want to try it MY way first. is this wrong?

[Arizona B]

Good Morning Ladies,
I'm 52 and have been having hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings off and on for the last four years. I've gone as long as 8 months without a perod and then all of a sudden I will have one. I've been on and off Atkins for a couple of years. I still watch my carb count but I'm not as strict as I was at first. I exercise 30 minutes on my treadmill in the morning, do a 40 minute tension cord workout with Richard Simmons, and in the afternoon I go to Curves. My daughter gave me a book to hear by Bob Greene. It's called the Total Body Makeover. This is my 6th week following the basic program and I've lost 13 lbs and 7 1/2 inches. The exercise is helping a great deal not only with the weight loss but with my hot flashes and night sweats. I don't have night sweats anymore and my hot flashes are not near as bad or as often. Alcohol will make the hot flashes bad as will hot spicy food. I"ve never taken hormones and I'm not going to. There is so much you can do naturally without putting yourself at risk for a heart attack or stroke. Before I quit working I would go to the big walk-in cooler we had at work and stand in it until the hot flashe went away. I had a crew of 32 and everytime I headed for the kitchen they would laugh and say there goes B to the freezer. If one of them couldn't find me they would always check the freezer to see if I was there. The Head Chef one year at Christmas gave me a stool for the freezer just in case I got tired while I was in there. My dear husband should get a medal for putting up with my mood swings. He doesn't have a weight problem but he eats low carb right alng with me and he exercises everyday to help me stay focused. Everyone keeps telling me that things eventually get better. Well, I'm ready ! I have found that Flaxmeal makes the hot flashes much better. I have a recipe for Flaxmeal bread if anyone wants to try it. The Fiber cancela out the carbs and it's really tasty. Some of us use it for open face sandwiches or if you put sugar free sryup on it it's fantastic. I've been making a single serving every morning for breakfast and I don't get hungry in the middle of the morning. I alos have been using soy milk and it helps alot too. Well, go to run for now. I hope everyone has a wonderful hot flash free day.
Brenda

[MariaDiana]

Bonnie, I'm so envious of your 15 mos till retirement! That more than anything is something I am so eager about. And I have way too long to go yet, I'm just a babe at 51, but I do plan to retire as early as finances will allow. I really hate working in the corporate world, and it's the only thing I have been trained to do.
Saracidal, you are correct, you ARE too young for all that you are going thru, but one thing I have learned, it doesn't matter what age, when something decides to happen that is part of your nature, for whatever reason, we gotta go with the flow. I know that's easier said than done , believe me, but to fight only makes it worse.
So I guess I'm saying that you need to take good care of yourself, do all the right things but without going to crazy extremes and knowing all the while that you are taking care of yourself. And that's the best you can do, not beat yourself up over it.
The same could be said for me, Good advise, I need to take it myself.
I actually took a "mental health" day from work, calling in sick because my mind and soul did really need a rest from the stress.
As far as lowcarb this time around, my experience tells me that the body resists EVERYTHING when we do it again, even low fat, etc...our metabolism is always striving to lower itself in order to keep us alive, that's what it is programmed for, so as we age, our bodies become actually more and more "efficient", which is a problem for some of us who have this tendency to be fat.
Brite Blessings to all and enjoy the fall!

[JAnn]

I'm 58, had a partial hysterectomy when I was 30 and have been suffering from hot flashes for the past 8 years. I wonder if it will ever quit. I have been thinking about taking hormones but I already had a hard enough time losing weight. I try exercise but feel too tired most of the time.:yawn: My mom sailed through with nothing but some headaches. Why didn't she pass that on to me?:(

[saracidal]

Saracidal, you are correct, you ARE too young for all that you are going thru, but one thing I have learned, it doesn't matter what age, when something decides to happen that is part of your nature, for whatever reason, we gotta go with the flow. I know that's easier said than done , believe me, but to fight only makes it worse.
So I guess I'm saying that you need to take good care of yourself, do all the right things but without going to crazy extremes and knowing all the while that you are taking care of yourself. And that's the best you can do, not beat yourself up over it.
The same could be said for me, Good advise, I need to take it myself.
I actually took a "mental health" day from work, calling in sick because my mind and soul did really need a rest from the stress.
As far as lowcarb this time around, my experience tells me that the body resists EVERYTHING when we do it again, even low fat, etc...our metabolism is always striving to lower itself in order to keep us alive, that's what it is programmed for, so as we age, our bodies become actually more and more "efficient", which is a problem for some of us who have this tendency to be fat.
Brite Blessings to all and enjoy the fall!

you guys are awesome here, and i am so blessed that my mom stumbled upon this place. i know i am within good graces. and you're right i just need to go with the flow. things will work themselves out in due time.

[Arizona B]

Saracidal,
I'm sorry to hear that you are having such a rough time. I find that if I drink at least 6-8 glasses of water a day my water retention is much less. As for the night sweets and hot flashes. Stay away from spicy food, alcohol, sugars, starches and more than anything else exercise. I have added Flaxmeal to my diet and it really helps with the hot flashes not to mention I don't get hungry or have all of the cravings I use to get. Staying on Atkins will stop the cravings in a few weeks and low carbing will get your sugar under contol. The weight gain is due to menopause and the low carbing will help with that as well. Try adding soy to your diet. Research has shown that women in Japan don't suffer all of the symptoms America women do when they are going through menopause. The main reason is because they eat and drink a great deal of soy. Allot of medications will cause rapid weight gain and water retention so talk to your Doctor and see if that could be part of the problem. Menopause is difficulft for alot of women but I find it helps me to know that there is an end in sight and this is the beginning to a new phase in my life. I have good days and I have bad days. I get up every morning and tell myself this can be a good day it's all up to me. I'm here anytime you need to talk. I almost forgot if you are having sugar cravings at night you probably aren't eating enough protein during the day. I have a recipe for Flax meal bread that is wonderful. I make a single serving in the microwave every morning for breakfast and eat it with cream cheese or sugar free sryup. Let me know if you want to try the recipe.
Brenda

[JAnn]

Arizona B,

I'm always looking for a hot cereal that does not contain gluten. I would love it if you would share yours.

[Arizona B]

JAnn,
I've been using this recipe for a single serving of Flax Meal Bread.

4 TBs. flax meal
1/4 tsp. baking powder
1 egg
1 packet of splenda or SF sryup
Mix it all together in a spquare plastic container, put in the microwave for two minutes, butter and enjoy. You can also put cream cheese or SF sryuo over it.

I made some muffins last week for my husband and he loved them. If you want the recipe just let me know. I put cinnamon in the above recipe and it was great. Flax meal can act as a laxative if you eat oo uch so be careful. The recommended daily amount is no more than four Tbs. Let me know what you thing. I'll try and find some recipes for hot cereal that do not contain glutten.
Brenda

[saracidal]

breanda i really appreciate your response thank you so much.
i had actually just found a LOT of stuff over the weekend on soy. i was actually wondering if THAT was what was triggering my cravings. and turns out that will help me curb them. i did a LOT of research on soy. i didnt realize how good it was for you . i guess being a vegetarian for so long paid off. to bad i was so ignorant lol. but i actually eat some meat now. mainly chicken turkey and tuna. and i do get most of my cravings at night. so i will deff up my protein during the day. im the hungriest at breakfast. but the bingiest (i know i know not a word);) at night. i have been snacking a LOT on sugar free soynut butter. this is also my first time in 15 years to have something remotely close to peanut butter so i have been enjoying it. i have 2 delicious recipes one is for a drink that i came up on my own and the other is an alternative mock danich concotion (i like to play in the kitchen).
but i would LOVE some recipes. anything you think would work, please pass along, i am open to anything at this point. i am so upset. in my move i lost my recipe collection from my 2 years of atkins'ing (yes i make up words, but it seems to fit) -=laughs=- i had soooo many recipes and they are GONE. and i now have to start ALL over. :( BOOOO!
i just have to be careful with flaxseed because i caused a blockage in my colon from not hydrating myself enough 2 years ago while consuming so much of it. not that i was having it in excess. but since it expands when it gets wet. it was like rubber cement in my colon and got stuck :o and with having hypomotility of the colon. i went 3 weeks without a movement and darn near almost ruptured my colon. i try to stay on top of my water as much as possible. but i suffer from dehydration easily. (but i have a lot of medical issues all rolled into one).
but i really appreciate your help with this. and any other tricks of the trade would be greatly appreciated. you are a doll. thanks hon :D

[Arizona B]

JAnn,
One of the girl's one the forum says that she lost 9 lbs in a week by eating two hard boiled eggs for breakfast, a can of tuna for lunch, and a large salad and serving of protein for dinner. I tried this for several days and it actually works quite well. I wasn't hungry at all . If you start feeling hungry drink a large glass of water. If you still are having cravings try eating some sugar free jello with the canned whipped topping. It always works for me. I have two huge books of recipes I have collected since I've been doing Atkins. Tell me what you want and I'll send you all of the recipes I have for that particular food group. There is a site called Linda's low carb recipes that is fantastic. Have a great day and let me know how things are going.
Brenda

[JAnn]

Brenda, thanks for the recipe. It's pretty similar to another I saw but did not save that had equal parts flaxseed and nuts (which I love.)It's interesting that you mention Linda's site as I have it bookmarked. I am also eating pretty much as you suggested although recently I began adding in more veggies such as spinach and broccoli when I really feel hungry. I also have about 25 spaghetti squashes that I grew this year that helps when I get really hungry. The only cheeses I have had is cream cheese melted on the veggies and parmesan. That and some pine nuts gives me the fat, protein and low carb and very easy to fix.

I have just about a month before I leave for Oregon and I need to buy some new clothes for the trip so I'm trying to lose (or re-lose!) another 10 pounds before I go. I've even motivated myself to start exercising although I don't do as much as I would like.

Sara, I know how it feels to lose cookbooks. I lost all of mine in a house fire years ago. If you need more recipes, let me know. I have over 1000 in my cookbook. Let me know if you want any or all and I can e-mail them to you. Some may need some minor tweaking as I modify any with gluten in them.

[saracidal]

JAnn-thank you so much. that would be greatly appreciated.
so what do you replace gluten with?

[JAnn]

Brenda , thanks for the offer but I, too, have a somewhat large collection, all on my computer. I plan on putting a computer in my kitchen so that I can just pop up the recipe I want and read it from the screen. I don't like having to spend half a day looking through cookbooks trying to fnd that certain recipe. But when I'm looking for a certain recipe that I don't have I'll keep you in mind.

Sara, a lot of LC recipes are made that way by adding vital wheat gluten to them which is the worst for me so I either skip that recipe, replace with soy flour, nuts, or a combination of soy flour and soy protein, or soy flour and nuts. I'm always open to suggestions as I really do miss bread and a good bread recipe is hard to come by. When I get to my weight I can add spelt and kamut in moderation, and the basic corn starch, tapioca flour, and brown rice flour combination with xanthan gum in place of the gluten. I have also found garbanzo bean flour is a good wheat flour substitute for recipes usine baking powder or baking soda.

I can try to email my cookbooks to you. Some have already been adjusted some need to be but I downloaded them as they sounded appealing.

[spacey52]

Hi, I started my change way back when I was 42. I have been period free, YAHOO, for 6 years now. The hot flashes are a pain and I was bummed to learn recently that they never stop. God certainly must be a man. I spend my nights in and out of the covers, windows open all year round with the fan on me all night long and in Michigan that's something. I remember complaining to the doctor once about the flashes and she told me she could put me on something but I'd get my period again. I told her to forget it I'd put up with the flashes. I was also on Effoxer ER for about 5 years and found they made the hot flashes even worse. I'm off that now and the flashes pretty much just hit at night now. How did women get so lucky to go through all the stuff we have to go through. I'm just sweatin as an oldie now.

[holly13]

Hi, I'm 53. I had an ovarian cancer scare in early February, was in surgery within 10 days for a hysterectomy (everything had to go), and am just finishing my 6 weeks of recovery. It turned out not to be ovarian cancer, but terrible endometriosis that I wasn't aware of. (That's strange in itself, since most women with endo have a miserable time.)

I was in perimenopause before, but surgical menopause is everything all at once with no gradual transitions.

I have been taking soy, black cohosh, fish oil, and estroven. I have lots of hot flashes, some of which are more like warm moments. I have always been so easy-going and even-tempered, but my current mood swings are a little scary. Anyone have experience with that? I usually don't show the mood swings, but it's a lot harder to maintain a professional composure than it ever was.

I have been maintaining a 70 pound weight loss for a couple of years, but put on 12-15 pounds dealing with surgery. 9 are already gone, and I want to get down a couple of sizes before doing another round of LC maintenance.

Holly

[Arizona B]

Holly,
I've been in Perimenopause for over 6 years now. I'll go 9 or 10 months without a period and then have one of the little darlings. My hot flashes were terrible for the first 3 or 4 years. My moods swings were crazy. My poor husband asked my Doctor what he could do to help and she told him that he should remove all sharp objects from the house, give lots of hugs, and settle in for the long bumpy ride.
Thank goodness my mood swings are almost gone along with the hot flashes. I still get them but mostly at night and their not near as bad or as frequent. I exercise everday for at least one hour which you can't believe how much that helps. If I stick to low carb with no bread, no sugars I also do better. I've made up my mind that I will just have to live with the chances so I sleep with a sheet at night and with a fan. I dress so I can be as confortable as possible. Believe it or not after a while you will probably go through periods of time when you are cold instead of being hot. My Doctor told me after awhile it becomes easier to lose weight and your body settles down. I still have 40 pounds I need to lose so I'll keep doing my best. Stress will make the hot flashes worse as well. Good luck and I look forward to hearing how you are doing.

Bren

[pliskin]

I was whining to my brother about menopause and lack of sleep recently and he told me my body was a "perfect storm" and I think I like that phrase...I guess everything just lines up and I get the mood swings, the hot flashes, just all of it. I thought I would get through this thing scott free...but nnnooooo. The one thing that it is helping me to realize, is changing my habits of yo yo dieting throughout my life and probably any past lives that I have had. So I have been slowly, very slowly, losing since November and I really sincerely want to change my eating habits for life.

Not to long ago, I was in for a haircut and I started crying to the hairdresser. She was so understanding, being around the same age and all. She just said...don't fight it, just learn to work with it...sigh, I am a fighter in deed, so it has been quite a journey.

when I workout I now workout at a lower heart rate to burn the fat...which is quite strange, to workout and just feel....well comfortable. I have started swimming...which is quite a new thing for me and am pleasantly surprised that it is such a great stress reliever. There is something about hitting the pool after work and "washing it all away"

I don't get on the website often. But I like the posts I have read on this thread, because I can truly relate to everyone here. I hope more posts keep coming.

[LCCamper]

I have been in menopause since I was 35yrs old due to Uterine cancer and could not take estrogen or soy products because my cancer was estrogen dependent. So, that being said.......yes it does get better because at 51 it does seem at times that I am a little warmer than others but hey - I don't PMS - I just sweat (LOL)
Seriously, there are now more doctors sensitive to many issues that we haven't covered here that "the change" can cause in women and no one can know better than you and your doctor what can ease you through this time.
All my best............

[cab54]

HI, guys! Boy, BEEN there, SUFFERED that! ;) I was in peri. 8 years. Had my last TOM summer of 2005, was pronounced Meno in October this year. Yay! I am already feeling less hot flashes (although still a few), and definitely got rid of the constant PMS-from-He!! feelings. Not just monthly but all the time. That was the worst. The anxiety and stress. Looking back, I should have gone on a med for something like PMDD, but I'll just take being over it.

Now, if I can EVER get this metabolism back on motion! Between being on 1000 useless diets all my life, (til this one) and having my hormones all over the map, I can't seem to burn pound #1. But, I FEEL better on this LC dealy, and I'm for it! I only wish I'd started this when I was about 44. I'm 52 now. Gained probably 40 *extra* pounds in peri. :o Sigh.

[DaisyGreen]

I don't qualify for TOFF but I do this thread and I can't find people to relate to regarding it anywhere else. I hope everyone doesn't mind me joining in. I am 32 and went through surgical menopause at 28. I took estrogen replacements for a few years. I weaned myself off them about 2 years ago.

I am certain that weight gain has been easier for me but as for weight loss, it appears to move at about the same rate as before. The hot flashes and other symptoms seem to almost vanish in the last year, just occasional flashes, then I started low carbing. Seems as though they are returning more often now.
I am just at a loss with my skin. Its aging faster than my peers with their goods still intact. I wanted to know if anyone uses something to help with this? Skin creams? Natural hormone replacements?

[JAnn]

I don't qualify for TOFF but I do this thread and I can't find people to relate to regarding it anywhere else. I hope everyone doesn't mind me joining in. I am 32 and went through surgical menopause at 28. I took estrogen replacements for a few years. I weaned myself off them about 2 years ago.

I am certain that weight gain has been easier for me but as for weight loss, it appears to move at about the same rate as before. The hot flashes and other symptoms seem to almost vanish in the last year, just occasional flashes, then I started low carbing. Seems as though they are returning more often now.
I am just at a loss with my skin. Its aging faster than my peers with their goods still intact. I wanted to know if anyone uses something to help with this? Skin creams? Natural hormone replacements?Welcome--I'm sure no one minds.

I had a hysterectomey at 30 but kept my ovaries. I am now going through the hot flashes, etc. :( I really can't answer about the skin as I don't think mine is aging any faster than anyone else's. In fact most people don't gues my age--60. Maybe someone else will have some info.

[JAnn]

---Bump---:)

[Judynyc]

**bump**

Anybody sink into depression while in menopause?

:wave: ...me...I am!!

[vbrowne]

I think I'm starting either peri or meno - I'll be 49 in July. My last period was over 3 weeks and according to my regular schedule due back in a day or two, but who knows. I've been quite depressed, don't sleep well either. However, I have a lot of stress in my life at the moment, MIL expected to pass by months end, my mum passed in October 2006, nana in England is 94 so I'm worried about her, etc., etc. I'd like to know if it's stress I'm going through or the change

Vikki

[Aisleone]

I'll be 53 next month. I've not had a period for 11 months now. I quit smoking and stopped having periods all at the same time! I put some of the weight back on that I had lost with Atkins so here I am again. I'm down 5 lbs in two weeks and I am happy!

[Ms A]

I hate to ask, but what is a TOFF?? Sorry, I'm a bit slow on the uptake these days :lol:

My friend uses Olive Oil on her skin - seriously!! :agree: She says it's amazing and she sees a big difference.

Another friend got a saliva test done for her hormonal levels - apparently blood tests are nowhere as accurate for this - and now she uses progesterone cream on her wrists every day and can't believe the difference, she feels like a new woman! Number one thing docs usually do is prescribe Estrogen .... but Progesterone balances everything out and that's what is really, really out of balance and needed at this age.

You can send off for the saliva kit and the progesterone cream. The web site / company is run by a nurse, Susan Krautter, who is a graduate of McGill University (Canada) and has been nursing for 40 years. She is a holistic nurse in private practice, specializing in counselling and hormone issues. She advises against just using any old prog cream - there are not-so-good-ones out there.

http://helpforhormones.com/susankrautter

Judy you may want to look into it as my friend said the Progesterone really made a big diff with her mood/depression also.

My mom and I and some of our friends went to one of Susan's lectures - she is amazing and so knowledgeable!!!

I turned 50 in July and was having terrible TOM's with extremely debilatating, very heavy, monthly visits which rendered me basically housebound for 5-6 days, and forget going to the gym!! Even had a couple of days where I had to phone in sick to work. It was getting ridiculous ... I had suffered with this for about 3 years thinking it was just something I had to get through, time of life etc. My PMS was getting bad too, and even acne sometimes! Huge belly at that TOM too .... crazy!

When I was younger I didn't have bad periods at all, very light, and didn't have much in the way of PMS.

Anyway, after struggling along I finally said enough and went to see my doctor and he sent me off to GYNO and he suggested Endometrial Ablation ... more than a D&C but not a hysterectomy ... he said I didn't need hyst because ovaries and everything were fine. With this 20 minute procedure they remove some of the lining of the uterus - it can become very thick at this age - and remove fibroids, both a huge factor in this condition called mennoragia.

Apparently, this procedure ends your periods, or if not then you hardly notice them at all, and from research I have done on the internet ... a UK study on 100 women who had this ... it also gets rid of the PMS symptoms too. This lasts for up to 3 years and by that time they said I would be finished anyway :thup: So wish I had gone sooner and got this done - oh well :bash: :doah: :lol:

I have been really lucky otherwise and no hot flashes to speak of, or very minimal anyway.

I'm in week 2 of recovery ... 3 weeks in total ... but can go for walks, just nothing too strenuous for the 3 weeks. Other than that, the surgery was a breeze ... 20 mins ... woke up feeling totally fine, and still feel great.

I am actually seeing a huge improvement with PMS anyway with the South Beach diet ... so I think that would have helped anyway, it definitely makes a huge difference with my cravings and energy level, and way less bloating. Plus working out at the gym, doing Yoga :agree: , and walking also really helps with PMS :agree:

Anyway, sorry to ramble on but I just thought there may be more people out there with my condition who don't know about the Endometrial Ablation .... a lot of doctors don't even advise on this.

Cheers! :wave:

Paula

[Judynyc]

Thanks Paula! :thup:

This is the over 50 thread.

[Ms A]

Thanks Paula! :thup:

This is the over 50 thread.

Duh, thanks! :lol:

[apena]

Boy am I glad I found my way here. I have been in menopause (paws) for maybe 2 years. (I am 51) I can't remember exactly how long, because of menopause. :D The hot flashes were totally crazy hot, but have recently been under better control. The heat of the summer, and working in the garden is the worst! I have been known to (in the middle of a freezing day in winter) strip all my clothes off, and run outside in the cold. Thank goodness as we live on a farm, and hopefully no one can see the crazy 50 year women running around trying to cool off.

[Ms A]

Boy am I glad I found my way here. I have been in menopause (paws) for maybe 2 years. (I am 51) I can't remember exactly how long, because of menopause. :D The hot flashes were totally crazy hot, but have recently been under better control. The heat of the summer, and working in the garden is the worst! I have been known to (in the middle of a freezing day in winter) strip all my clothes off, and run outside in the cold. Thank goodness as we live on a farm, and hopefully no one can see the crazy 50 year women running around trying to cool off.

Ha ha ha ... 'cept the amm inals (as my younger son used to say)! :lol:

Boy, you are brave ... I would have to be pretty darn hot to strip off all my clothes, even if no one could see! :lol:

[Hismouse]

Boy am I glad I found my way here. I have been in menopause (paws) for maybe 2 years. (I am 51) I can't remember exactly how long, because of menopause. :D The hot flashes were totally crazy hot, but have recently been under better control. The heat of the summer, and working in the garden is the worst! I have been known to (in the middle of a freezing day in winter) strip all my clothes off, and run outside in the cold. Thank goodness as we live on a farm, and hopefully no one can see the crazy 50 year women running around trying to cool off.


I know exactly what you mean, I am 51, In 99 my dr. said I need my ovaries for at least 2 more yrs, clock work the hot flashes began. It can be the middle of winter and I think my internal temp is 110. I have had a partial hysterectomy, back in 99, so the sings are not period troubles. I have lite mood swings and lite depression, and not able to focus and not a will to do the things I used to. I am so aware it is Menopause, so I self talk a lot. I have read lots of books. I without my Uterus, I have Ostopenia. During the night I get lots of hotflashes, and they have gotten hotter and I feel the lite dampness on my skin, I HATE THIS. It is not fare, why don't MEN get something! We women have to deal with it all:( I do strip down run to the shower or tub, and then put clean dry cloths on. I have fans blowing all winter long, I turn the heat down to off most of the time. I low the cold weather. It is 64 in my house, I have a tank top on and the cool feel so nice. I think all of us menopause women should get a few yr trip to Alaska. I sure would go. My Honey could come, but he hate the cold....How long is this thing going to last. I have had hot flashes for 7-8 yrs. and 2-3 real strong ones. Is it going to get worse????

[Hismouse]

Still having hot flashes, more at night then the daytime. I get pretty sick of them. I wake up repeatedly at night, and feel so tired in the am.
I'm considering taken a supplement soon to try and get rid of them. Does anyone know of one that really works?

[amonage]

**bump**

Anybody sink into depression while in menopause?

:wave: ...me...I am!!Yes, me and yes again :lol:

Why do you think that is? I am 51 +

Why do our bodies become depressed with something that is suppose to be a natural part of our life?

[amonage]

Still having hot flashes, more at night then the daytime. I get pretty sick of them. I wake up repeatedly at night, and feel so tired in the am.
I'm considering taken a supplement soon to try and get rid of them. Does anyone know of one that really works?
Me too, I soak my nightgown and pillow, it is like my chest has an oily sweat, it is very, very frustrating.

I too am so tired in the am, I just don't get the good sleep I need and want.

[amonage]

I feel like I am posting to myself. :lol:

The cravings are the worst, it feels like ongoing PMS.

I know proteing/fat/veg's help a lot. But the physical/hormonal cravings are a real battle.

[sveltecelt]

Hi !
Menopause is one time in life when you reallllllllly need a good doctor. Each woman is different and has to decide if she wants hormone replacement. I want to at least use progesterone because it helps the thyroid function better which keeps the metabolism moving along well.

I hit the big "M" about 4 years ago. Mama mia what a year that was!!! whooooeeee. Hot flashes from hades 24/7. Crying for no reason. That ended---after about a year of suffering. Now it's all about getting the progesterone, thyroid and adrenal hormones back to healthy levels for me.

Many times that menopausal depression is caused by underactive thyroid. It really might help to have that medically looked into. Women and menopause and underactive thyroid seem to go together.

I kinda like not having PMS :)

[Ms A]

Hi there:

This is a great web site if you want to check it out re Menopause and how Progesterone can help, etc.

It's Canadian, but everything can be accessed on line.

http://helpforhormones.com/susankrautter

I went to a one day seminar put on by Susan Krautter, she attended McGill University and has been nursing for 40 years. She's a holistic nurse and specializes in hormone issues. The seminar was so informative and she is so knowledgeable.

It seems progesterone is definitely a huge factor in controlling symptoms. We usually get Estrogen, which is the worst thing we can do apparently. Makes sense really when you think our bodies are trying to reduce Estrogen, guess there must be a reason for that.

Touch wood, I'm doing ok at 50 ... not too many symptoms, except I had to have an endometrial ablation for excessive bleeding and fibroids, but now I'm fine.

My friend did go the progesterone route though and she can't believe the difference it has made in her life, she is feeling awesome and no more sweats etc.

Anyway, worth checking out the site .... lots of good info. :agree:

Have a great day :wave:

[Born2run]

I'm 56 and heres my story. I started going thru it in my mid 40's. They were nice and let me stay on HRT until recently. Doc decided that I needed to be off. Well that hot flashes were coming fast and furious until I found a combination of supplements to help a little. They are at least bearable now and the good thing is nobody can tell me I have to quit taking it. For awhile i didn't think I was ever going to get them under control, so I desperately called the doctors office and said I needed the hormones back, but then the supplements kicked in so I cancelled my appointment. So that is my story, only I haven't figured out how to stop night sweats. Judy :idea: :thup: :q:

[jyhn]

I can tolerate the hot flashes, sleep disturbances, brain fog etc.
what I am so sad about is my desire is gone. No one mentions this, in fact many of my friends say the sex is so much better now that they don't have periods, PMS etc..... I have lost 26 pounds and can't even enjoy the better body! Judy (new to the forum)

[sveltecelt]

Hi jhyn!
It may sound kind of odd, but sometimes menopausal women need testosterone supplementation in order to restore libido. Women normally have small amounts of testosterone in their body through out adult life. For some, this diminishes after menopause. It's that good ol' testosterone/androgens (along with estrogen and prgesterone) that help us keep that spark of desire after menopause.

Are you using anykind of hormone replacement at all?

[Ms A]

I believe Progesterone is all that is needed, my friend is now using it and says it has made a huge difference.

We need to be very careful about adding Estrogen in to our bodies at menopause, peri meno, etc. Our bodies are trying to get rid of Estrogen and there are more health issues arising now from this process and more and more docs are turning to Progesterone creams instead ... much better for us and makes for a big difference in hormonal balance etc.

I too have lost some Libido, however, I find it is more Mind over matter ... in other words I don't think I'm in the mood but given the "opportunity" I usually find I am indeed in the mood after all!! :lol: My husband has learned that it is all in the approach and that the fire just needs to be kindled a bit more than usual ... :agree:

All the best,
Ms A

[Aisleone]

Brenda,
I would very much like to try your recipe. I enjoy a flax meal muffin but would like a bread.

[sveltecelt]

hi again
jhyn: I can recommend a really good book for you and anyone who needs to balance out hormones for menopause and perimenopause. It is written by Dr. Uzzi Reiss MD/ob-gyn called: "Natural Hormonal Balance for Women".

Every woman is different. What worked for Ms A and her friend might not work for you. There are times in a woman's life when libido is so low that even if the hubby looked like "Fabio" and had a romantic approcah like "Casanova" it wouldn't help!

It may be helpful if you can find a really good ob/gyn who can discuss your symptoms with you and can work out a plan for bringing hormones into a balance that will dispel depression, loss of libido, insomina etc. etc.

Also, get blood tests to rule out other disorders that have the same symptoms. Many women develop hypothyroidism around the time of menopause---which has many symptoms that are similar to hormonal loss.

Best wishes! And feel better soon! Good luck. :)

[jyhn]

Have had the hormones checked, testosterone is within normal limits. Will check with my ob/gyn about the progesterone cream, she told me last year that I would best off not doing any hormone replacement if possible.
Judy

[Ms A]

Have had the hormones checked, testosterone is within normal limits. Will check with my ob/gyn about the progesterone cream, she told me last year that I would best off not doing any hormone replacement if possible.
Judy

Hi there:

Here is a really good web site, with tons of great info etc., if you are interested.

www.understandinghormones.com/


I saw Susan Krautter at a women's conference I attended a couple of years ago .... she's a graduate of University and has been nursing for about 40 years. She's a holistic nurse and specializes in hormone health. She develops individual programs for both men and women to balance hormones without the use of pharmaceutical drugs.

You can get the saliva testing done through this web site (many of my friends did this after the conference we attended and have had great results) .... apparently, the blood test that is normally done is nowhere near as accurate as the saliva test .... and also the "natural" progesterone cream is available through this site .... apparently there are good and not-so-good creams out there, so be picky!

She was quite an amazing woman .... we were all very impressed with her at the conference ... there were about 200 meno women in the room for the conference at the same time! :lol:

This was in Vancouver BC, but with e-commerce you don't have to be in the same state or province anymore!

I have not pursued this avenue yet, as I don't seem to be having huge problems ... yet .... just some hot face stuff and hot and cold, but nothing major .... but I keep her web site bookmarked just in case :agree:

My few friends who did the test and got the cream say it has made a huge difference for them .... some doctors still don't "get this" but it seems to work. Docs usually just go for the drugs, but sometimes other things can work too.

Cheers and good luck :wave:

Ms A

[SissyPoo]

I cramped and bleed real bad during my menopause.
My doctor finally did a hysterectomy and that made it all go away, no more cramps.