Category Archives: Nourishing Your Menopausal Body

Supplement Smarts: Questions to Ask Before You Buy

flat lay photo of alternative medicines

Supplement Smarts

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

Supplement decisions aren’t always rooted in science—they’re often driven by curiosity, fear, or peer pressure. But before you toss another bottle in your cart or click “buy now” on your favorite app, it’s worth taking a pause. Not everything that comes in a capsule is the answer to your wellness goals. Here’s what to consider before you spend another dime:

Is It Peer Pressure?

Someone recommends garlic for heart health. Another swears by sea moss for its energy-boosting properties. Soon, the whole office is taking green pills, and no one really knows why.

It happens more often than you think. If you’re taking something just because someone else is—or because an influencer made it sound magical—stop and ask yourself: Is this right for me? You’re not a trend. Your health shouldn’t be either.

Do You Fear Not Doing It?

Fear is a strong motivator. Especially when headlines are screaming about immunity or when chaos makes you second-guess everything.

The supplement market knows that—and markets to it. But the hype isn’t healthy. Don’t let uncertainty push you into a panic buy. Talk to your doctor. Ask real questions. Gather facts, not fear.

What’s the Company Claiming?

If a supplement promises to cure everything from menopause to Monday mornings, it’s time to raise an eyebrow. Supplements aren’t regulated in the same way as medications.

If the label sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Check the claims. Check the stock value. Check who’s getting paid to promote it. If it smells like marketing, it probably is.

How Much Money Are You Spending?

Supplements are expensive. And if you’re buying multiple bottles that promise results in 90 days, that adds up fast. Just five bottles at $25 each per month? That’s $1,500 a year.

It may be worth it—but only if it works. And only if it’s something your body truly needs. Otherwise, that money may be better spent on nutrient-rich food, quality sleep, or consulting with a professional who knows how to tailor wellness to your needs.

Do You Know Your Numbers?

You can’t manage what you don’t measure. That applies to vitamins and minerals as well.

Before starting a supplement, ask: Can I test for this? Can it be detected through blood work or a physical examination? If so, you’ll have real data to guide your choices instead of relying on guesswork or TikTok tips.

Can Your Diet Cover It?

A supplement should supplement, not substitute. And food isn’t just about calories—it’s also about context.

If you’re low on something, can you get it through food first? Maybe. However, food isn’t as nutrient-rich as it used to be, and some individuals require additional support. That’s okay. Just be sure the supplement fits your needs, not just someone else’s suggestion.

Even healthy foods can backfire. Too much spinach? Hello, oxalates and kidney stones. Balance and variety still matter.

Here’s the Bottom Line

You’re not one-size-fits-all. What works for someone else might not work for you. And what your body needs today might change tomorrow.

So, before you stock up, book your physical. Get a complete blood profile. Bring your questions and be ready to advocate for yourself. And if your doctor’s not up to speed on every new plant-based powder or supplement trend, give them a little grace—but don’t skip the conversation.

Whether you’re concerned about your B Complex, magnesium at bedtime, or any other nutrient, understand why you think you need it and consult your doctor. Your health is too important to leave to guesswork or glossy marketing.

If you found something useful here don’t hesitate to click like and don’t forget to subscribe to Fabulous at Forty & Beyond and check out more INC’s Fabulous at Forty & Beyond – Nourishing Your Menopausal Body!

*Health and wellness coaches engage in evidence-based, client-centered processes that facilitate and empower clients to develop and achieve self-determined, health and wellness goals. We do not diagnose, interpret medical data, prescribe or de-prescribe, recommend supplements, provide nutrition consultation or create meal plans, provide exercise prescription or instruction, consult and advise, or provide psychological therapeutic interventions or treatment.

Diets in Menopause: Don’t Choose One Without Reading This

Diets in Menopause

Don’t Choose One Without Reading This

Diets in menopause can feel like a never-ending experiment. You try something that promises results, and it works—until it doesn’t. What used to help you shed weight now barely makes a dent. And all the while, your body is changing in ways that don’t always make sense.

The truth is that most diets work… but only for a while. And during menopause, that window tends to shrink. The key is finding something that fits your body, your lifestyle, and your season of life. These questions will help you figure out if a diet is really going to work—long-term.

What’s worked for you before?

Start here. Look back at any eating style, routine, or plan that helped you feel your best. What made it manageable? What tripped you up? Write it down. This might be the foundation for your next move—with a few menopause-friendly tweaks.

How long did you stick with it?

If you only made it a few weeks (especially if you started in January and gave up before spring), it wasn’t sustainable. Diets in menopause need to support you through more than a short burst—they need to work for the long haul.

Would the same problems come up again?

Even the best diet won’t fix everything. If your life is chaotic, your schedule overloaded, or your stress levels through the roof, food changes won’t last. Before starting anything new, ask yourself if the rest of your life is set up to support success.

Are you open to trying something new?

Just because one plan didn’t work doesn’t mean you’re out of options. And if you’re completely over the diet mindset, that’s valid too. Menopause is a good time to shift toward nourishing your body instead of restricting it.

Is this a diet or a lifestyle?

If it’s rigid, joyless, or built around deprivation—it’s a diet. But if it helps you feel better, gives you energy, and still lets you live your life? That’s a lifestyle. Diets in menopause should feel like something you can actually stick with—not something you’re counting down to finish.

Can you afford what it takes to follow this plan?

Those subscription meal kits and pricey supplements add up fast. Some diets cost as much as a car payment over six months. Run the numbers before you jump in. Sustainability includes your budget.

How much time can you realistically spend in the kitchen?

If the plan calls for hours of chopping, prepping, and batch cooking every week—it might not be doable. Flip through a few sample recipes. If you’re already tired just thinking about it, it’s probably not your match.

Who’s going to support you?

Whether it’s a friend, partner, or a supportive online group, accountability matters. Diets in menopause are easier to navigate when someone’s in your corner cheering you on or even just checking in.

How will you handle it if it doesn’t work?

This part’s crucial. If the plan flops, will you spiral—or will you pivot? You’re not failing. The plan just didn’t fit. There are over 100 dietary approaches out there, and you can even create your own based on what actually supports your life.

Are you doing this for the right reasons?

It’s okay to want to lose weight, but it’s not the only reason to change how you eat. Feeling better, sleeping well, having more energy, and supporting your health? Those are the wins worth chasing.

Final Thoughts

Diets in menopause require more than willpower. They need to respect your changing body, support your lifestyle, and still let you live a full life. Before jumping into any new plan, take time to ask these questions. They’ll help you find something that sticks—and something that actually works for you.

If you found something useful here don’t hesitate to click like and don’t forget to subscribe to Fabulous at Forty & Beyond and check out more INC’s Fabulous at Forty & Beyond – Nourishing Your Menopausal Body!

*Health and wellness coaches engage in evidence-based, client-centered processes that facilitate and empower clients to develop and achieve self-determined, health and wellness goals. We do not diagnose, interpret medical data, prescribe or de-prescribe, recommend supplements, provide nutrition consultation or create meal plans, provide exercise prescription or instruction, consult and advise, or provide psychological therapeutic interventions or treatment.

Water, the Fountain of Youth: Boost Your Vitality Inside and Out

Water, the Fountain of Youth

Boost Your Vitality Inside and Out

Water isn’t just a trendy accessory; it’s essential for your health and can save you thousands in healthcare costs. Without it, your body can’t function properly, leading to serious, even life-threatening, illnesses. These days, you see people carrying bottles and cell phones everywhere, and most won’t leave home without them.

In 2021, Americans spent over $8.64 billion on reusable water bottles. Many use them to make a statement, stay trendy, or even save money—living until you’re 80 could save you over $17K on bottled water. But no matter what kind of container you use, let’s talk about the real star: H2O, and why it’s truly the fountain of youth.

Drink up or Die

Humans can’t survive without water. Your body is about 75% water, and while you can live nearly a month without food, you can only survive a few days without water. It’s essential for life!

Dehydration

Dehydration can affect your kidneys, leading to infections, kidney stones, or even kidney failure. It’s important to consume electrolytes, especially potassium and sodium. Without them, your body’s cell signals can become confused, potentially causing loss of consciousness.

Get Water Without Drinking

Eat foods with high water content, like fruits and vegetables, to stay hydrated. Almost any non-caffeinated or non-alcoholic beverage can help replenish your fluids. A bonus of eating fruits and vegetables is that you’re increasing your daily fiber intake.

Tap or Bottle?

In most places, U.S. standards are high, and the quality information is readily available. In many areas, the tap meets stricter standards than bottled water, though it could still be improved. While filtering isn’t always necessary, it often makes it taste better. Many affordable reusable bottles now come with built-in filters, making it easy to enjoy cleaner water on the go.

When to Drink

If you’re thirsty, drink! Thirst is a sign of dehydration, so once you feel it, it’s time to hydrate. Whether you prefer to sip or guzzle, just do what works for you. The key is to drink fluids consistently throughout the day, rather than right before bed.

How Much to Drink

The ideal amount to drink is often debated. One common guideline is to take your weight, divide it by two, and drink that number in ounces each day. However, everyone is different. A good way to gauge your hydration is by checking your urine color—deep yellow is a sign that you’re dehydrated and need more water.

Beauty from the Inside Out

Whether you’re short on time or money, drinking water is the best facial you can give yourself. It works from the inside out, and that’s the secret to achieving the dewy skin you’re after. While nourishing your skin from the outside is important, there is a saying “it’s what’s on the inside that matters.”


At the end of the day, water is truly the foundation of good health and glowing skin. From keeping your body functioning properly to giving you that radiant complexion, staying hydrated is key. Whether you’re sipping throughout the day or eating water-rich foods, it’s about prioritizing it. So, the next time you’re feeling off or looking for a simple beauty boost, remember that water is your body’s best friend. Drink up and let it work its magic!

If you found something useful here don’t hesitate to click like and don’t forget to subscribe to Fabulous at Forty & Beyond and check out more INC’s Fabulous at Forty & Beyond – Nourishing Your Menopausal Body!

*Health and wellness coaches engage in evidence-based, client-centered processes that facilitate and empower clients to develop and achieve self-determined, health and wellness goals. We do not diagnose, interpret medical data, prescribe or de-prescribe, recommend supplements, provide nutrition consultation or create meal plans, provide exercise prescription or instruction, consult and advise, or provide psychological therapeutic interventions or treatment.