Can Perimenopause and Menopause Make You Extra Hungry? Sadly, YES!
Navigating through perimenopause and menopause can bring a range of challenges, and one of the most frustrating for many women is an increase in hunger. You might find yourself asking, “Why am I suddenly so hungry all the time?” The answer lies in the complex interplay of hormones during this transitional phase.
What Are the Reasons for Increased Hunger During Perimenopause and Menopause?
1.Increased Ghrelin, Decreased Leptin
During perimenopause, levels of ghrelin, the hormone that stimulates hunger, tend to rise. This can leave many women feeling constantly hungry. At the same time, levels of leptin, the hormone responsible for making you feel full, decrease. This imbalance makes it harder to feel satisfied after meals, leading to more frequent cravings and overeating.
2.Increased Cortisol
Persistent stress can lead to overeating, particularly the consumption of high-fat, high-sugar “comfort” foods. In perimenopause and menopause, the cortisol-dampening effects of estrogen are reduced, which can lead to an increase in stress-induced appetite. This can be a major contributor to unwanted weight gain during this time.
3.Decreased Estrogen
Estrogen, especially the form known as estradiol, plays a significant role in regulating metabolism and body weight. As estrogen levels decline during perimenopause and menopause, your appetite can increase. The loss of estrogen’s appetite-suppressing effects makes it harder to control cravings and portion sizes.
4.Poor Sleep
Hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause and menopause can seriously impact your sleep quality. Night sweats, for example, can make it difficult to get a good night’s rest. Insufficient sleep can further elevate hunger levels, making it even more challenging to maintain a healthy diet.
How to Counter This?
Stay tuned for my next post, where I’ll share tips and strategies to manage these hunger pangs during perimenopause and menopause.
This article not only addresses a common concern but also provides insights into why women experience increased hunger during perimenopause and menopause. Understanding these changes can empower you to make better decisions and manage your symptoms more effectively.
Keywords: Menopause, perimenopause, hunger during menopause, menopause symptoms, hormonal changes, increased appetite, ghrelin, leptin, cortisol, estrogen, poor sleep, weight gain, menopausal hunger.
Written By
Charu Kapoor
