Mood swings are one of the most common symptoms experienced during the menopause. Mood swings affect every woman differently and can be frustrating, particularly when they seem out of control and out of character.
Fluctuating hormone levels can impact neurotransmitters in the brain. These neurotransmitters, like GABA and Serotonin, regulate feelings of calm and the pain-pleasure centres of the brain. When hormones that help trigger ovulation and menstruation are out of balance and decline on approaching the menopause, so does the level of serotonin. These hormones will fluctuate causing erratic mood swings, the experience of mood highs and lows.
Try to increase your GABA intake (see previous post) by eating fermented foods, cruciferous vegetables beans and pulses as this will hep you to relax and get a good nights sleep. Poor sleep will also affect your mood. Eating salmon, turkey, eggs, cheese, pineapple, tofu, nuts & seeds all contain tryptophan, an essential amino acid which helps your body produce serotonin.
Regular exercise will also help to increase endorphins levels.
“small changes can make a big difference”
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