![]() ![]() Mood swings, disrupted sleep, and fatigue in menopause, may seem like the worst possible time to try to give up sugar, but there are so many positives in doing so. But sugar’s impact on insulin may make HRT less effective. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) - Many menopausal women use HRT to reduce menopause symptoms. A diet high in saturated fats and sugar (fatty meats, processed baked goods, fruit juice, many condiments) leads to spikes in blood sugar levels, and that’s when hot flashes can occur. The glycemic index (a system that ranks foods on a scale from 1 to 100 based on their effect on blood-sugar levels) indicates that foods low on the index such as vegetables, some fruits, whole grains, nuts, and some dairy stabilize blood sugar levels. Building on the information provided above, blood sugar levels can be affected by a number of things, including stress, illness, lack of sleep, side effects from medications, and a diet high in saturated fats and sugar. So, it makes sense that if sugar impacts blood sugar levels, it might also increase the number and intensity of your hot flashes, as suggested in this study. Sugar and Hot Flashes - High blood sugar has been linked to hot flashes. ![]() ![]() Even if you’re not on HRT, too much sugar can still worsen menopausal symptoms. You should know that if you’re on HRT (hormone replacement therapy) to reduce menopause symptoms like hot flashes, that insulin resistance may make HRT less effective. Also, higher blood sugar levels are related to weight gain and fatigue. Many women see their blood sugar levels rise and fall during this time, making them more vulnerable to several ailments, including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. Rising Blood Sugar Levels - In menopause, as estrogen and progesterone diminish, our cells become more resistant to insulin, meaning the body has to work harder to manage blood sugar. Why is Sugar Extra Bad During Menopause?Īs with many menopause symptoms, the problem is the loss of the protective properties of our reproductive hormones. Now, let's discuss why you should stop eating sugar in menopause. We’re going to talk about why the white stuff is especially harmful during menopause, the pros and cons of giving up sugar, and some simple steps you can take to kick this sweet habit for good. Put simply, sugar and menopause don't mix well. And, yes, sugary foods can make menopause worse. But in excess, it promotes cavities, causes pimples or acne, weight gain, even heart disease. Eaten in moderation, sugar is probably fine. That cute little cupcake you consumed at the birthday party over the weekend might as well have had horns and a tail, because sugar-the processed kind, not the naturally occurring stuff in fruits and veggies-can do a whole lot of damage to your body if you don’t consume it carefully. Not to be overly dramatic, but sugar is the devil. ![]()
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