Energy Levels

Why PMS Gets Worse After 40 and How to Manage It Naturally

January 23, 2025

Hi, I’m Angela
I'm a functional medicine practitioner & hormone expert working primarily with women in their 40's and 50's to create lasting health.
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Have you ever found yourself wondering why PMS seems to hit harder as we get older? For many women, it’s like a switch flips once we enter our 40s. The symptoms we once thought we’d left behind come roaring back—or worse, brand new ones start to appear. Suddenly, you’re feeling more irritable, exhausted, and overwhelmed than ever before. But the good news? There’s so much you can do to reclaim your well-being.

As a functional medicine practitioner, I’ve worked with countless women who are navigating this very challenge. And here’s what I want you to know: Many women feel the shift when PMS becomes more intense after 40, but that doesn’t mean we’re powerless. Let’s explore why this happens and, more importantly, how we can take charge and find relief.

Why Does PMS Get Worse After 40?

As we move into our 40s and beyond, our hormonal landscape changes dramatically. Estrogen and progesterone—two key hormones in our menstrual cycle—fluctuate in ways that can leave us feeling completely off balance. For many women, progesterone begins to decline more quickly than estrogen, while estrogen itself fluctuates unpredictably. These shifts can lead to PMS symptoms that disrupt our daily lives: mood swings, fatigue, anxiety, digestive discomfort, and more.

What’s happening here is a natural part of aging, but that doesn’t mean we have to suffer in silence. The key lies in understanding how these hormonal fluctuations are affecting us and what we can do about them.

The Role of Diet: More Than Just Hormones

One of the biggest culprits behind PMS symptoms is an imbalance in blood sugar and insulin levels, which is influenced by what we eat. Are you craving carbs and sweets more than usual, especially in the days leading up to your period? It’s a common reaction to hormonal changes, but unfortunately, giving in to those cravings can worsen the issue.

When we indulge in processed carbs and sugars, our insulin levels spike, which in turn increases inflammation and makes hormonal imbalances even worse. The solution? Opt for whole grains like quinoa, brown rice, and oats instead of processed carbs. These provide a steady source of energy and are much less likely to spike blood sugar and insulin. Moderation is key—aim for around a half-cup to a full cup of whole grains per day. Small, consistent adjustments to your diet can have a big impact on your mood, energy, and sleep patterns.

Beyond Hormones: Gut and Liver Health Matter

Did you know that your gut and liver are essential players in hormone balance? They help detoxify estrogen, keeping it in check with progesterone. If your gut or liver isn’t functioning optimally, it can throw your hormones completely out of whack.

Many women don’t realize that digestive issues—like bloating, constipation, or changes in bowel movements—can signal deeper imbalances. And if you’re struggling with sugar cravings, there could be an overgrowth of harmful bacteria like Candida in your gut. This not only affects your digestion but also interferes with how your body processes and balances estrogen.

The good news? We can assess gut and liver health through testing like urine and stool samples, giving us a clearer picture of where the imbalances lie. With this information, we can take a holistic approach to restoring balance and reducing PMS symptoms.

Finding Relief: How Functional Medicine Can Help

By addressing the root causes of PMS—whether it’s hormonal fluctuations, blood sugar imbalance, gut issues, or liver detoxification—we can create a personalized plan to rebalance your body. In my experience, women often notice dramatic improvements within just one or two menstrual cycles. With the right guidance, you can go from feeling like a prisoner to your hormones to enjoying a life with more energy, better focus, and a mood that feels steady and grounded.

I’ve seen it time and again: women come to me feeling defeated by PMS, but by the second cycle of following a customized plan, they feel a remarkable difference. They’re waking up energized, no longer battling brain fog, and able to tackle daily tasks with clarity and confidence.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

I know this can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. If you’re ready to find lasting relief from PMS and get back to feeling like yourself again, I’d love to help. Schedule a Complimentary Consult with me today to discuss your specific concerns and explore natural solutions during this important transition.

Join our Private Facebook Group called Functional Medicine for Hormonal Imbalances, where nearly 7,000 women are actively looking to discover the root cause of their hormone imbalance symptoms and root cause solutions for long-term success and balance.

DISCLAIMER:  The information in this email is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content is for general informational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with your own doctor/health professional.

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