Perimenopause

Active perimenopausal and postmenopausal women need guidance that differs from guidance derived from sedentary or clinically ill populations. Perimenopause is framed as ovarian function winding down rather than as a hormone deficiency state. Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone affect neurotransmitter receptor sensitivity during perimenopause. Perimenopausal cravings are presented as substantially physiological rather than purely psychological. Alcohol during perimenopause can compete for liver processing and may increase circulating estrogen. Alcohol cravings can markedly increase for many women during perimenopause. The article presents perimenopause-related training and nutrition as long-term health-span investments rather than symptom-only responses.