Is menopause treatment really about health—or just another diet fad in disguise? That’s the tough question Cole Kazdin raises in her eye-opening essay, "Why Does Menopause Treatment Always Include a Diet?" (https://time.com/7297712/menopause-diet-culture-eating-disorders-essay/). And if you’re navigating fertility or perimenopause, this might just hit closer to home than you think.

Let’s be real. Weight gain during perimenopause isn’t just a “symptom”—it’s the symptom everyone notices first. And what’s the immediate reaction from health pros, media, and society? “Fix that weight gain!” Cue the avalanche of diet talk plastered as a mandatory part of treatment. But here’s the catch: this often overlooks the why behind weight changes and can fuel unhealthy relationships with food and body image.

So, why should anyone trying to conceive or managing perimenopause care about this? Because the emotional rollercoaster of weight anxiety + diet culture can seriously undermine mental wellness, one of the pillars of fertility success. Stress hormones rise, self-esteem dips, and suddenly, you’re stuck in a vicious cycle that no fertility tracking app can solve.

But wait, there’s hope!

Breaking the Cycle: Rethinking Nutrition in Menopause and Fertility

Instead of jumping on the “diet” bandwagon, what if we focused on nourishment tailored for your body’s unique needs during this phase? Here's some fresh wisdom:

• Mindful Eating, Not Restrictive Eating: Listen to your body’s hunger cues instead of calorie counting like it’s a game show.
• Quality Over Quantity: Whole foods packed with nutrients help balance hormones and fuel fertility, no fad diet required.
• Gentle Movement: Yoga, walking, or even dancing can boost mood and metabolism without turning exercise into punishment.

This shift from “diet” to “wellness” can transform how you feel in your skin—because fertility journeys deserve more than just a numbers game.

Where Does At-Home Fertility Support Fit In?

If you’re considering at-home insemination or managing fertility from your own space, the last thing you want is extra pressure around diet or body image. That’s why solutions like MakeAMom’s BabyMaker kit—designed for comfort and sensitivity—are a game-changer. They empower you to take control in a calm, non-judgmental environment, free from the noisy diet chatter.

MakeAMom reports a 67% success rate with their reusable kits, which cater to various needs like low motility or sensitivities such as vaginismus. It’s fertility support that respects your body’s story, not a one-size-fits-all diet mandate.

Why This Conversation Matters More Than Ever

In a world that constantly tells women to “fix” their bodies, Kazdin’s essay is a bold wake-up call to question why dieting is the default prescription. Especially during perimenopause and fertility challenges, mental and emotional wellness are just as crucial as physical health.

So, next time someone hands you a diet plan as a solution, pause. Ask: "Is this helping me? Or just feeding into culture’s unrealistic expectations?"

Your Turn!

How have you navigated the mess of diet culture in your fertility or menopause journey? Has shifting the focus to nourishment and self-care changed your experience? Share your story below, and let’s build a community that supports you—no gimmicks included.

Remember, your body is your home, your journey is unique, and support is out there (yes, even at home!). Stay curious, stay kind, and keep syncing with what feels right for you.

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Inspired by Cole Kazdin's insightful essay, you can read the full article here: Why Does Menopause Treatment Always Include a Diet?