Starting a health journey can feel intimidating, especially if you are in your 40s. Life tends to get busy, and often our health takes a back seat. However, I made a decision to prioritize my health and wellness through hormone replacement therapy (HRT), weight training, and cooking high-protein meals.
This blog post shares my transformation, the surprising benefits I encountered, and some delightful high-protein crock pot recipes to simplify your meal prep, especially now that sweater weather is here!
Discovering HRT
When I first learned about hormone replacement therapy (HRT), I was both intrigued and uncertain. Like many women my age, I noticed changes happening in my body, such as fatigue, mood swings, and hair thinning. After thorough research and discussions with my healthcare provider, I decided to explore HRT as a solution.
HRT involves taking hormones to replace those that the body naturally decreases with age. For me, the results were incredible. My energy levels surged as I balanced my busy lifestyle filled with work, family, and friends. Suddenly, I wasn't dragging myself through the day but instead felt revitalized and engaged.
Increased Weight Training: Empowering Change
I always found weight training somewhat daunting. However, I recognized it was time to embrace it to enhance my overall strength and well-being. Building muscle mass plays a vital role in combatting the effects of aging and boosting metabolism.
I committed to a regular weight training routine. For example, I set realistic goals to lift weights three times a week, gradually increasing the weight. According to research, engaging in strength training can boost your metabolism by up to 15 percent. The result? I felt stronger and more confident, with the ability to tackle daily challenges head-on.
A Focus on Protein-Rich Meals
Nutrition has played a crucial role in my health journey, particularly by incorporating protein-rich meals. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues and helps keep you feeling fuller for longer.
Cooking with a slow cooker became magical during busy fall days. High-protein meals not only sustain energy levels but also make meal prep a breeze. For instance, slow-cooked chicken can provide 25 grams of protein per serving, allowing me to enjoy wholesome meals with minimal effort.
Shocking Side Effects: More Energy and Less Hair Loss!
One of the most surprising outcomes of this journey has been the benefits I did not expect.
Firstly, I experienced a striking increase in energy. This improvement allowed me to be more productive at work and socialize more without feeling drained. In a recent week, I managed to complete five workouts instead of my usual three!
Secondly, hair loss, which troubled me for years, became less of a concern. I noticed notably less hair in the shower drain—a welcome and unexpected change.
Additionally, my skin began to feel more hydrated and smoother. According to a survey from the North American Menopause Society, 70% of women reported improved skin health after starting HRT.
_Crock pot cooking not only makes meal prep easy but also results in tasty, protein-packed dishes!_
HRT Resources
If you’re considering hormone replacement therapy, it's important to do your homework and consult medical professionals. Here are a few informative resources to help you on your journey:
The North American Menopause Society (NAMS): Offers valuable information on menopause and HRT.
The American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM): Provides a wealth of research, guidelines, and educational materials.
HRT Resource Center: A dedicated platform for detailed information about hormone replacement therapy options.
Easy High-Protein Crock Pot Recipes
Now, let’s get to the fun part—cooking! Here are two of my favorite high-protein crock pot recipes that are delicious and pack a nutritious punch.
The Benefits of Slow Cooking in Your Health Journey
Slow cooking is a time-saver and creates flavorful meals. As busy women, using a crock pot allows you to prep meals ahead of time and enjoy the convenience of dishes ready when you need them.
As sweater weather arrives, cozy crock pot meals become even more inviting! Here are two of my favorite resources for cooking easy, high protein crock pot meals!
Follow: Stealth Health: for some of my favorite recipies. Easy, flavorful, and really creative cooking ideas for creamy soups, pastas, and dishes. Say buh-bye to boring chicken and rice.
_Healthy meal prepping leads to better nutrition and saves time during busy days!_
Reflecting on My Journey
Choosing this health path with HRT, fitness, and nutritious cooking has been enriching. I’ve gained energy, experienced less hair loss, and improved my skin. Plus, I’ve fallen in love with preparing wholesome meals in my crock pot.
Whether you're considering HRT, looking to boost your energy, or seeking easy, high-protein recipes, I hope this post inspires you to kickstart your health journey.
Additional Resources
For those interested, feel free to explore vitamins I recommend that complement my health journey, providing essential nutrition as I embrace these changes.
Thank you for being part of this exploration of health, energy, and delicious food! Let us continue to support one another as we thrive in our fabulous 40s and beyond! 🌟
What changes are you considering for your health journey? Let's share and inspire each other in the comments below!
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