Perimenopause, Appetite and Energy Use: What's Actually Changed

For many women, perimenopause comes with a confusing shift.
Appetite feels different. Hunger cues change. What once felt steady now feels unpredictable.

This is not about willpower.
And it is not about “doing something wrong”.

It is about how the body begins to use fuel differently during this life stage.

Let’s look at what is actually happening under the hood.

Your body’s fuel system is being recalibrated

Oestrogen plays an important role in how the body uses carbohydrates, fats and protein. As levels fluctuate during perimenopause, the systems that regulate fuel use begin to change too.

This can show up as:

• Feeling hungrier more often

• Feeling less satisfied after meals

• Stronger cravings for quick, comforting foods

• Less tolerance for long gaps between eating

It is not that your body suddenly needs more food.
It is that the signals between appetite, blood sugar and the nervous system are less stable than they used to be.

Appetite regulation is closely linked to the nervous system

During perimenopause, the nervous system often becomes more reactive. Stress hormones rise more easily and settle more slowly.

When this happens:

• Hunger can feel urgent rather than gradual

• Appetite can spike during times of stress or overwhelm

• The body may seek quick fuel as a way to self-regulate

This is one reason women often describe appetite changes alongside sleep disruption, irritability and feeling wired but tired.

Supporting the nervous system is not separate from appetite regulation.
They are deeply connected.

Why protein becomes more important, not more restrictive

Protein plays a role in helping maintain muscle mass, supporting satiety and stabilising blood sugar responses.

As hormonal shifts occur, the body often needs more consistent protein intake, not stricter rules around food.

This is where many women struggle.
Not because they do not know protein matters, but because it can feel hard to consume enough without effort.

This is exactly why we developed our Peri Protein blends with KSM-66 Ashwagandha. They are designed to be:

• Easy to digest

• Simple to include in everyday routines

• A practical way to help maintain protein intake without overthinking meals

This is not about chasing numbers.
It is about helping the body feel steadier and more supported.

Gentle rituals can help regulate appetite signals

The body responds well to rhythm and predictability, especially during times of change.

Warm, calming rituals can help signal safety to the nervous system, which in turn influences appetite cues.

Our superlattes, including Peri Chai and Peri Rose and Vanilla, were formulated with this in mind. They include ingredients like magnesium glycinate that:

• Play a role in nervous system function

• Help maintain relaxation

• Support the body during times of stress and hormonal transition

For many women, a warm latte mid afternoon or in the evening becomes less about hunger and more about settling the system, which can naturally reduce reactive eating.

This phase isn't about not having enough discipline

Perimenopause is a physiological transition. Appetite and fuel use changing is part of that transition.

Trying to override it with restriction often increases stress, which can make symptoms worse.

A more supportive approach focuses on:

• Regular nourishment

• Adequate protein

• Nervous system support

• Reducing pressure around food choices.

This is not about control.
It is about working with your body instead of against it.

The takeaway

If appetite feels unfamiliar right now, it does not mean something is broken.

It means your body is adapting.

With the right supports in place, including consistent nourishment, protein intake and calming daily rituals, many women find things begin to feel more manageable again.

You deserve information, options and support during this stage.

That is what we are here for.