Five Beverages to AVOID During Menopause…and Why

by: Dr. Mary Claire Haver
banner-76-5cd468fc0e129

Diet plays a large role in health, especially during menopause. Sometimes overlooked, certain beverages can affect the intensity and frequency of your menopause symptoms and increase menopausal health risks. Below are some of the most risky:

  • Alcohol – One of the most common symptoms of menopause- disrupted sleep, primarily difficulty falling or staying asleep – is greatly influenced by the presence of alcohol in our bodies. Alcohol has been scientifically proven to decrease melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles, levels. In addition, alcohol consumption has been shown to be associated with increased frequency of hot flashes. If you do choose to continue to drink alcohol, ensure no more than 2 beverages are consumed per day and that consumption ends at least one hour before you go to bed.
  • Caffeine – Caffeine intake is associated with increased frequency and severity of night sweats and hot flashes. Decaffeinated coffee/tea are your best bets for minimizing these menopausal symptoms.
    Sugary Beverages – Menopause is against you on this one; the naturally lowered levels of estrogen and progesterone that occur during this stage of life often increase one’s craving for sugar. Fight the urge of consuming sugary beverages as it could worsen hormone changes as well as energy swings that lead to weight gain.
  • Carbonated “Fizzy” Drinks – These types of drinks contain phosphorous, which is very acidic and “attacks” your bones. This is problematic for a number of reasons but most importantly so considering osteoporosis, the weakening of bones, is a common problem that occurs along with menopause. Rather than promoting this weakening, we would rather prevent it; hence, fizzy drinks are not the best option.
  • Diet/Artificially Sweetened Sodas – A new study found that women who drink multiple diet beverages in one day are 23% more likely to have a stroke and 29% more likely to develop heart disease between the ages of 50 and 79. Many are deceived by the low/no calorie label and think they are making a healthy choice when in fact they are putting their own health at risk.

If completely eliminating the above beverages does not seem possible to you I encourage you to at least limit your consumption. Over time, perhaps, you can slowly decrease the amount you drink and eventually not consume them at all. Your body will thank you later.

Article References:

https://www.avogel.co.uk/health/menopause/videos/5-drinks-that-can-upset-your-menopause/

https://www.thorne.com/take-5-daily/article/6-foods-to-avoid-during-menopause

https://www.upi.com/Health_News/2019/02/14/Post-menopausal-women-who-drink-diet-soda-have-increased-stroke-risk/7931550150070/

If you are interested in learning more about the science behind The Galveston Diet, Click Here.

Related Posts:

The Galveston Diet can help women in menopause feel more confident in their skin.

This blog provides general information and discussion about medicine, health and related subjects. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended and should not be construed as medical advice. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care worker.

Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or in any linked materials. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency room immediately.

The views expressed on this blog and website have no relation to those of any academic, hospital, practice or other institution with which the authors are affiliated.

While the information on the site was prepared to provide accurate information regarding topics related to general and specific health issues, the information contained in the site is made available with the express understanding that neither Dr. Mary Claire Haver, galvestondiet.com, nor the other experts on the site, nor the site itself, nor members of the Site are dispensing medical advice and do not intend any of this information to be used for self-diagnosis or treatment.

IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS ABOUT YOUR HEALTH AND BEFORE STARTING OR STOPPING ANY TREATMENT OR ACTING UPON INFORMATION CONTAINED ON THE SITE, YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR OWN PHYSICIAN OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.

Don't miss a thing from
The 'Pause Blog

Get the latest news from Dr. haver delivered to your inbox.

Name*
This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.
By signing up, I agree to the Terms & to receive emails from The Galveston Diet.

This website uses cookies to ensure you receive the best experience.