Broadcaster Lorraine Keane shares the simple lifestyle changes that helped her cope with one of the most challenging symptoms of perimenopause.

The biggest change for me when I entered the perimenopause stage of my hormonal journey (women typically go through five stages, from puberty to post-menopause) was my sleep – or rather, my lack of it. It was as though someone flicked a switch. Overnight, my sleep became completely disrupted. I was waking three to five times every night.

I’d always been a great sleeper. I loved my bed and looked forward to climbing into it after a busy day. Then, suddenly, bedtime became something I dreaded. The anxiety was exhausting. Would I sleep tonight? How many hours would I get? I dreaded another night spent staring at the ceiling, tossing and turning, too hot one minute and too cold the next.

Then the alarm would go off and I’d feel as though I hadn’t slept at all, facing another busy day running on empty.

Through my work touring the country with Cleanmarine, talking openly about menopause and listening to the experiences

of thousands of women, I’ve realised that disrupted sleep is one of the most common symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.

So, what changed? How did I finally overcome my insomnia? Two things: exercise and what I eat and drink each day. Two simple lifestyle changes that are available to all of us.

I now know that regular exercise has made a huge difference to my sleep. Once I established a consistent routine and paid closer attention to my diet, I began sleeping properly again.

I signed up to a gym – something I never imagined I’d enjoy. But I’d read that after 40, muscle mass and bone density begin to decline, so I knew I had to take action. I attend a local gym where the sessions are less than 30 minutes, three or sometimes four times a week. Strength training has become an investment in both my current and future bone health.

I also make sure I’m getting enough calcium, vitamin C, vitamin D and magnesium. It can be difficult to get the levels I need through food alone, so I take two Bone Factors capsules before bed. The magnesium helps support my sleep, which is why I take them in the evening. Bone Factors also contain vitamin K2, a nutrient that’s harder to obtain through diet but plays an important role in helping the body use calcium efficiently.

I’ve also never made a secret of the fact that I take MenoMin every morning to support my perimenopause and menopause symptoms. Alongside helping to maintain healthy hair, skin and nails (biotin¹), it supports emotional balance through vitamin B6², while vitamins B1 and B12 contribute to normal psychological function³. Omega-3 DHA supports normal brain function and, together with EPA, contributes to the normal function of the heart⁴. The B vitamins also help support normal energy production and metabolism, something I’ve certainly appreciated since turning 50.

For me, the fact that MenoMin is clinically proven is hugely reassuring. It means its benefits have been demonstrated through studies and clinical trials, rather than relying solely on anecdotal evidence. That’s why I haven’t missed a day in 11 years.

You can also take Cleanmarine Bone Factors and MenoMin alongside HRT.These two simple supplements give me real peace of mind. They help me feel confident that I’m getting the nutrients, vitamins and minerals I need to support my health through this stage of life.”

¹Short sleep duration is associated with reduced leptin, ¹ Biotin contributes to the maintenance of normal hair, skin and mucous membranes.

² Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity.

³ Vitamin B12 contributes to normal psychological function. Riboflavin (Vitamin B2) contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system.

⁴ Omega-3 EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart. DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function. The beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg DHA.