114. Kristina Von Oertzen Shares the Menopause Diet Hack You Need to Know!

In this episode of "Too Young To Be Old," Diane sits down with Kristina Von Oertzen, a health coach and former chef at a Michelin-starred restaurant. Together, they dive into the complex relationship between food, health, and menopause, offering listeners valuable insights on how to enjoy food without guilt while navigating the challenges of menopause.Understanding Food FreedomDiane kicks off the conversation by introducing the concept of "food freedom," a central theme in Kristina’s approach to health during menopause. Kristina explains that food freedom is about finding a balance between enjoying the foods you love and making choices that support your health. She emphasizes that it's possible to indulge in your favorite treats without negative consequences by being mindful of your body's needs and responses.The Menopause Belly: Why It Happens and How to Manage ItOne of the hot topics in this episode is the notorious "menopause belly." Kristina sheds light on why hormonal changes during menopause cause weight gain, particularly around the midsection. She explains the roles of estrogen and cortisol in this process and offers practical tips for managing weight gain, including the importance of building muscle and avoiding stress-induced eating.Food Sensitivities and CravingsThe discussion moves to food sensitivities and cravings, common issues many women face during menopause. Kristina shares her personal experiences with food intolerances, particularly with gluten and histamine-rich foods. She advises listeners to keep a food diary to track reactions and identify triggers. She also introduces the "apple test" as a tool to differentiate between true hunger and emotional eating.Effective Workouts for Women Over 50Kristina and Diane discuss the importance of exercise in maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being during menopause. Kristina recommends strength training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) as effective strategies for building muscle and burning fat. She emphasizes that these workouts don't have to be lengthy or complicated; even short, intense sessions can yield significant benefits.Portion Control and Indulgence: Finding the BalanceDiane shares her struggles with portion control and cravings, particularly for her favorite treat, cheesecake. Kristina offers advice on how to enjoy indulgent foods in moderation, suggesting that listeners plan their treats and savor them without guilt. She also highlights the importance of not depriving oneself entirely, as this can lead to overindulgence later.Final Thoughts: Embracing a Healthy Relationship with FoodAs the episode wraps up, Diane and Kristina reflect on the importance of maintaining a healthy relationship with food, especially as we age. They encourage listeners to focus on nourishing their bodies with foods that support their health while still allowing room for the occasional indulgence. Kristina leaves listeners with a powerful message: don’t make food your enemy, but rather a friend that fuels your body and supports your well-being.Connect with Kristina Von OertzenInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/bloomlab.health/Website:  https://coaching.bloomlab.health/Connect with DianeYoutube: https://www.youtube.com/@thedianegilmanFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheDianeGilman/Instagram https://www.instagram.com/thedianegilman/?hl=enStay up-to-date on upcoming announcements by signing up for our mailing list at: www.TheDianeGilman.com