Eat for Energy, Hormonal Balance & Vitality: A Wholefoods Approach That Nourishes From Within

In today's fast-paced world, it's easy to feel drained, out of balance, or simply not at your best. But often we turn to quick junk food and takeaways or think a quick fix diet is the answer. Focusing on the right foods help fuel your body, support our changing hormones and bring back energy and balance.

This article is not about dieting—it's an approach to food that centres around nourishment and not deprivation. My approach focuses on wholefoods, superfoods, high-quality protein, and low glycaemic (GL) carbohydrates—while also removing common inflammatory triggers like gluten and dairy— to create a body support structure for energy, hormonal health and lasting vitality.  I have been following this approach for a couple of years following a course with a nutritionist that focused on improving my health and lowering my weight during menopause.  I have also been gluten and dairy free for around 20 years.  I have a severe introlerance and I am not a diagnosed celiac.  By following the food priorities below and avoiding the others, I have a healthy weight, low fat/high muscle composition and lots of energy for life.

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Foods to prioritise

• Wholefoods: Fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, nuts, seeds, whole gluten-free grains like quinoa and buckwheat and healthy fats.

• Superfoods: Nutrient powerhouses like chia seeds, flaxseeds, blueberries, turmeric, spirulina, ginger and leafy greens that support cellular health and immune function.

• High Protein: Protein is essential for all meals: eggs, fish lean meats, greek yogurt, nuts, seeds, legumes, tofu, and quality plant-based protein powders.  [link to product on Amazon]

• Low GL Carbohydrates: Foods that release glucose slowly into the bloodstream to maintain stable energy and blood sugar levels—think sweet potatoes, lentils, non-starchy vegetables, and berries.

• Additionally considering Gluten Free & Dairy Free: Removing common inflammatory triggers for some people.  Beware of highly processed alternatives and avoid.

Foods to avoid

• Highly processed foods such as ready meals, packet breakfast cereals, cereal bars, low quality sausages and burgers - these contain many additives and are high in sugar and salt vs home made versions.
• Diet foods and some low fat diet alternatives with hidden sugars and salts.  Read the ingredients!