In this episode, Clarissa and Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer discuss the root causes of cravings and why an all-or-nothing approach to managing weight is ineffective.
Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer is the physician founder of Well Empowered, where she practices heart-centered, data-driven functional medicine.
Dr. Jessie identifies five common causes of cravings: being on the blood sugar roller coaster, insufficient sleep, insufficient nutrients, emotions, and environment.
Dr Jessie provides practical tips for addressing each cause, such as starting the day with a protein and fat-centric breakfast, improving sleep quality, addressing nutrient deficiencies, finding alternative ways to cope with emotions, and creating a supportive environment.
In this conversation, Dr. Jessie Hehmeyer and Clarissa discuss various strategies for managing cravings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle during menopause. We explore the role of hormones, sleep, and nutrition in managing cravings and the importance of finding a middle ground and avoiding an all-or-nothing approach.
Dr. Hehmeyer emphasizes the need for self-care and self-compassion and encourages listeners to ask themselves, 'What is my best game right now?' to make choices that support their health and well-being.
Takeaways
Cravings can be caused by being on the blood sugar roller coaster, insufficient sleep, insufficient nutrients, emotions, and the environment.
Starting the day with a protein and fat-centric breakfast can help stabilize blood sugar and reduce cravings.
Improving sleep quality can reduce cravings by regulating appetite and stabilizing blood sugar levels.
Addressing nutrient deficiencies through lab tests and supplementation can help reduce cravings.
Finding alternative ways to cope with emotions can reduce emotional eating and cravings.
Creating a supportive environment by keeping healthy foods easily accessible can help reduce cravings. Low progesterone and GABA supplementation can help support sleep during menopause.
Improving sleep hygiene, such as reducing electronic use before bedtime, can enhance sleep quality.
Finding a middle ground and avoiding an all-or-nothing approach to nutrition and exercise is key to long-term success.
Self-care and self-compassion are essential for managing cravings and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Asking oneself, 'What is my best game right now?' can help make choices that support overall health and well-being.
Connect with Dr Jessie Hehmeyer https://wellempowered.com
Get your copy of my new book Beyond Hormones: 7 Holistic Ways to Thrive Through Menopause here https://bit.ly/49XBI1a
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