The heart–hormone connection.

Simple, practical steps to support your heart in midlife; plus Miso Mushrooms with Butter Bean Purée & Greens, and Dark Chocolate & Raspberry Muffins

I don’t know whether it’s down to midlife or the change that came with having kids, but over the past few years I’ve noticed a definite rise in my health anxiety (oh, my carefree 20s feel like a distant memory). Do you ever feel the same? For me, the best way to keep it in check is to be practical and prepared; focusing on what I can do now to lay the groundwork for the future, and in the process, easing some of that worry too.

Heart health is one of those things that can feel like it belongs in the ‘later’ category (something to think about down the line). But research shows that the choices we make in midlife have a big influence on how well our hearts carry us into our 60s, 70s, and beyond. This is the stage when cholesterol patterns can begin to shift, blood pressure may change, and lifestyle habits make an even bigger difference. Which makes now the perfect moment to bring heart health into focus.

Supporting your cardiovascular system doesn’t have to mean sweeping changes or strict restrictions. Often, it’s the small, steady actions (such as adding more fibre to your meals, finding movement you genuinely enjoy, protecting your sleep, or giving your nervous system a chance to rest) that make the biggest difference over time.

In this edition, we’ll explore how perimenopause can influence heart health, what’s worth paying attention to, and the practical nutrition and lifestyle steps that can help you stay strong and resilient. And, as always, there are two delicious recipes included — both designed to nourish your heart as well as your tastebuds.

As always, I’d love to hear from you if you'd like to find out more about how we can work together, or if you have any questions or comments — either hit reply or book a free 1-to-1 chat.

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How to protect your heart in midlife.

Brain fog, hot flushes, sleep issues, meno-rage, these are the symptoms that everyone seems to talk about when it comes to perimenopause. The effect that menopause has on our heart health and the increased risk of cardiovascular disease is less well known but it should be at the top of our midlife agenda. Coronary heart disease, which causes most heart attacks, is the biggest killer of women worldwide, and kills twice as many in the UK as breast cancer each year. But you consider your diet to be pretty healthy, you're exercising regularly, surely your risk of heart issues is minimal? One thing that may come as a surprise is just how much our heart health is tied to our hormones.