Navigating Mood Changes in Perimenopause & Menopause: A Functional Medicine Approach

If you’ve been feeling like you’re on an emotional rollercoaster, struggling with mood swings, anxiety, depression, or brain fog, you are not alone. The transition from perimenopause to menopause is one of the most hormonally complex phases in a woman’s life. These changes can leave you feeling like a stranger in your own body, but there is hope! With targeted nutrition, lifestyle modifications, and the right supplementation, you can regain balance and feel like yourself again.

The Hormone Shift Behind Mood Swings & Brain Fog

During perimenopause, key hormones that regulate mood and cognition begin to fluctuate and decline:

  • Estrogen: As estrogen levels drop, serotonin and dopamine—our feel-good neurotransmitters—also decline, contributing to anxiety, depression, and irritability.
  • Progesterone: This calming hormone, known as nature’s tranquilizer, declines, leading to increased anxiety, sleep disturbances, and mood swings.
  • Cortisol: Chronic stress exacerbates symptoms by disrupting adrenal function, which further affects mood stability.
  • Testosterone: A dip in testosterone can lead to fatigue, loss of motivation, and brain fog.

The key to restoring balance is identifying which hormone levels are off and taking targeted action to support your body through this transition.

The Power of Testing: Know Your Numbers

Comprehensive hormone testing can be a game-changer when it comes to managing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Functional lab testing, such as the Comprehensive Female Hormone Panel, can reveal imbalances in estrogen, progesterone, testosterone, DHEA, and cortisol. With this information, we can develop a personalized plan tailored to your body’s unique needs.

If you’re struggling with mood symptoms, testing for neurotransmitter imbalances, adrenal function, and nutrient deficiencies (like B vitamins, magnesium, and omega-3s) can also provide valuable insights.

Daily Support Plan: Lifestyle, Nutrition & Supplements

  1. Start Your Day Right
  • Hydrate: Begin your morning with lemon water and trace  minerals to support liver detoxification and hormone balance.
  • Protein-Rich Breakfast: A high-protein meal with healthy fats (avocado, nuts, seeds) and fiberstabilizes blood sugar and prevents mood crashes.
  • Morning Sunlight & Movement: Exposure to sunlight boosts serotonin, while movement (like pilates, walking, or light strength training) enhances endorphins and energy levels.
  1. Eat for Hormonal Balance
  • Increase Phytoestrogens: Foods like flaxseeds, organic soy, chickpeas, and sesame seeds help stabilize estrogen levels.
  • Boost Omega-3s: Fatty fish (salmon, sardines), walnuts, and chia seeds help reduce inflammation and support brain health.
  • Balance Blood Sugar: Avoid sugar crashes by eating protein and healthy fats at each meal.
  • Support Gut Health: A diverse gut microbiome is essential for hormone metabolism. Include fermented foods (kimchi, sauerkraut, kefir) and prebiotics (onions, garlic, asparagus).
  1. Supplement Wisely
  • Magnesium Breakthrough (2 capsules at bedtime) Helps with blood sugar balance, sleep, anxiety and stress management.
  • Omega-3s (EPA/DHA – 2000 mg/day): Reduces inflammation and supports fat metabolism.
  • B Complex Vitamins: Essential for neurotransmitter function and energy production.
  • Mood Plus (Mood Balancer)- this is by far the most favourite mood balancing supplement for menopausal moods.
  • Bio Identical Hormone Therapy- This is a game changer for so many!
  1. Evening Rituals for Restorative Sleep
  • Herbal Tea: Chamomile, passionflower, or valerian root can promote relaxation.
  • Tech Detox: Reduce blue light exposure an hour before bed to optimize melatonin production.
  • Gratitude & Mindfulness: Journaling or deep breathing helps rewire the brain for a positive mindset.

Take Control of Your Transition

Every woman’s hormonal journey is unique, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Functional lab testing can pinpoint exactly what’s out of balance, and with a personalized plan, you can reclaim your mood, mental clarity, and overall well-being.

Ready to uncover the root cause of your symptoms and start feeling like yourself again?

📅 Book a consultation today: www.drcobi.com/booking

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