Liz Lay - Menopause

Has the warm weather got you reaching for more "healthy" snacks, cold drinks, ice creams, smoothies, or grab-and-go treats?

You’re not alone.

Many women notice their energy feels more up and down during summer, but often don’t realise that hidden sugars can play a part.
That cereal bar between errands.
The flavoured yoghurt.
The iced coffee.
The smoothie that looks healthy.
The ready-made dressing on your salad.
They can all contain more sugar than you might expect.

During perimenopause and menopause, fluctuating hormones can make blood sugar balance more sensitive. This means hidden sugars may contribute to:
⚡ Energy crashes
🧠 Brain fog
😫 Irritability
🍪 Increased cravings
😴 Poor sleep
😰 Feeling more stressed or anxious

Warm weather often encourages us to choose convenience foods, refreshing drinks, and lighter meals, which can sometimes mean more sugar sneaks into our day without us realising.

This isn't about cutting everything out or feeling guilty. It's about awareness.

Start by:
✔️ Checking labels with curiosity
✔️ Looking out for sugars hidden under different names
✔️ Pairing carbohydrates with protein, healthy fats, or fibre
✔️ Choosing foods that provide steadier energy

Small changes can make a big difference to how you feel.

Your body isn't working against you, it may simply be asking for more stability and support.

🎧 In my latest podcast episode, I explore hidden sugar and how it may be affecting menopause symptoms. Links are in the comments for you to listen to the full episode.

What's one food or drink that surprised you when you discovered how much sugar it contained?

Have you noticed a drop in confidence during menopause?

Many women who have always been capable and successful suddenly start doubting themselves.

This episode explores why menopause can affect confidence, especially at work.

🎧 Listen now. Links in the comments 👇

🚨 Waking up at 3am and unable to get back to sleep?

If you're in perimenopause or menopause, it may not be "just stress" or something you're doing wrong.

Hormonal changes can affect:
✨ Sleep quality
✨ Cortisol levels
✨ Blood sugar balance
✨ Cravings and appetite
✨ Energy and focus
✨ Weight management

Many women blame themselves for feeling exhausted, reaching for sugar, or struggling with motivation after a poor night's sleep, when often, your body is responding exactly as it's designed to, when hormones fluctuate and your nervous system is under pressure.

In this week's podcast episode, I explain why night waking happens during menopause, how cortisol may be involved, and some gentle ways to support better sleep without adding more pressure to yourself.

🎧 Listen to the episode now.
https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/menopause/id1881274756
https://open.spotify.com/episode/7tXh9G1tbBvKCyWTyk9aqT?si=Ijl_TMx0QX649bZmDiTezw

I'd love to know:
What's your biggest sleep challenge right now?
Is it falling asleep, waking in the night, early waking, racing thoughts, or something else?
Share below 👇