Japanese Nutritionist: These 3 Coffee Habits Can Worsen Menopause Symptoms

In a health advisory that resonates deeply with the concerns of many women navigating menopause, Japanese nutritionist Chiharu Shimoyama has pinpointed three common coffee-drinking habits that could exacerbate menopausal symptoms. Liberty Times, a publication committed to providing accessible health information, highlights Shimoyama's insights to empower readers to make informed choices for their well-being.

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Iced coffee, evening coffee, and coffee with sugar – Japanese nutritionist Chiharu Shimoyama suggests that menopausal women should avoid these, to get through this period safely.

The nutritionist's advice, shared via food and agriculture expert Wayne's Facebook page, focuses on the detrimental effects of iced coffee, late-day consumption, and the addition of large amounts of sugar. Shimoyama explains that the caffeine in coffee constricts blood vessels, potentially worsening cold extremities, a common menopausal complaint. Combining this with the chilling effect of ice creates a double blow to body temperature regulation. Furthermore, evening coffee consumption disrupts sleep patterns and can lead to autonomic nervous system imbalance, which is already fragile during menopause.

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Caffeine itself has a vasoconstrictive effect, which slows down peripheral blood flow, making it harder for hands and feet to warm up. Adding ice is like directly cooling from the outside, a double whammy.

The impact of sugar is also significant, as rapid blood sugar fluctuations can further destabilize the body's temperature control mechanisms. Shimoyama emphasizes that as women's estrogen levels decline during menopause, their ability to regulate body temperature naturally weakens. These coffee habits, therefore, act like dousing a flickering flame with cold water, making it harder to maintain comfort and stability.

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Caffeine keeps the sympathetic nervous system in a state of excitement, leading to decreased sleep quality and disordered autonomic nerves, making cold symptoms harder to control.

Liberty Times relays Shimoyama's recommendations for a healthier approach: opt for hot, black coffee, consume it earlier in the day, limit intake to no more than four cups, and consider decaffeinated versions. This practical advice aims to help women manage their menopausal journey more comfortably, underscoring the importance of mindful consumption in maintaining health.

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Large fluctuations in blood sugar caused by white sugar impact the autonomic nervous system, making body temperature regulation more unstable.