Women’s health nutrition
How we can help
Endometriosis
Gut issues such as bloating and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Feeling and fuelling your best
Perimenopause and Menopause
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition where tissue that usually lines the uterus is found in other areas, most commonly in the pelvis. Some women will have no symptoms, whereas others experience symptoms such as pain, irregular cycles and infertility. While nutrition isn't a cure, it is a valuable component of managing endometriosis.
As endometriosis is an inflammatory condition, an anti-inflammatory diet may help to improve symptoms. Diet can also help you to manage any gut issues such as bloating, diarrhoea and constipation, which are more common amongst women with endometriosis.
A low FODMAP diet has been shown to be effective for some women with gut issues and endometriosis, although it may not be necessary for everyone.
There is no one-size-fits-all diet for women with endometriosis and we will individualise our diet recommendations to help specifically with your symptoms, as part of a thorough assessment.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome
PCOS
Diet and lifestyle changes are the primary treatment for the management of PCOS, and have been shown to help achieve more regular periods, improve acne, reduce excess hair growth, increase fertility, and improve mood.
Prioritizing complex carbohydrates with a low glycaemic index, incorporating lean proteins, healthy fats, and a variety of fruits and vegetables can help regulate insulin levels and help with hormonal imbalance associated with PCOS.
Diet can also reduce your risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease, which unfortunately women with PCOS are more at risk of.
We know that it can be difficult for some women with PCOS to lose weight, and incredibly frustrating. For that reason, our focus at Nutrition for Women is never solely on weight loss. We help you to choose foods that will nourish your body and help you feel your best, no matter what weight you are.
Perimenopause and menopause
Perimenopause refers to the time leading up to menopause, or your last period. It is often when women will start to experience symptoms such as irregular periods, hot flushes, night sweats, weight gain, mood changes and joint pain. This may last for several years.
Menopause refers to the final menstrual period, after which the ovaries no longer produce any eggs.
Perimenopause and menopause is a time of change, and an important time to take stock of your diet and lifestyle. Let us help you to set yourself up for a healthy future.
How can diet help?
Reduce the severity of symptoms - a healthy diet and other strategies such as reducing caffeine and alcohol can help reduce the severity of symptoms for some women.
Reduce the risk of heart disease - falling oestrogen levels in menopause increase the risk of heart disease. A heart-healthy diet can help to manage this risk, reduce “bad” cholesterol levels and increase “good” cholesterol levels.
Maintain bone density - falling oestrogen levels increase the risk of osteoporosis and so it is important to make sure you are getting enough calcium, vitamin D and bone-strengthening exercise to maintain bone density.
Weight management - hormone changes and the ageing process means that you can naturally start to lose some muscle at this stage of life. You may also find that weight is sitting more around your tummy. Ensuring you are eating good quality protein, reducing highly processed foods and exercising can help maintain muscle mass and a healthy weight. In our consultations we never focus solely on weight, but help you to feel your best, nourish your body with good food, and love the body you are in.
Quality of life - diet can help improve mood and better cope with the changes that are occurring during this time of your life.