Perimenopause: Here's what has helped me

I’m 47 and, honestly, perimenopause has knocked me sideways. At times I’ve felt completely lost—like a shadow of who I used to be. My confidence dipped, my energy disappeared, my brain felt foggy, and I just didn’t feel like me. It crept in slowly, but when I stopped and really looked, I realised I’d become unbalanced in more ways than one.

I had a short go on HRT—it helped a bit, but it didn’t feel quite right for me at that time. I’m not saying I won’t go back to it as I get older, but for now, I’ve decided to really focus on supporting my body in a more natural way.

 

One of the main reasons I founded Mama Shrooms was because I couldn’t find a functional mushroom product that was clean, potent, and actually easy to take. I didn’t want complicated protocols—I just wanted something simple and effective. One capsule in the morning, one at night. Done.

 

Around the same time, I realised my diet had become a little bit slack. Having teenagers means your focus often shifts to everyone else, and I wasn’t properly looking after myself. I’ve worked as a plant-based chef for years, so my food’s always been mainly veg-heavy, but I knew I needed more. I started adding oily fish back in, some red meat here and there, and upped my protein. I cut back on gluten, started making my own nut milks again, and focused on seasonal, whole foods. That alone made such a difference in my energy and mood.

Alcohol was a big one for me too. I love a night out, and I definitely still go out—but I’ve massively dialled back my drinking. Even a couple of glasses of wine would leave me anxious the next day. Now, I usually go for low or no-alcohol options. I’ll have one drink if I feel like I want to join in, but the truth is, the next-day impact just isn’t worth it. And honestly? I feel so much better for it.

 

I also cut out caffeine completely—which was brutal at first—but once I got through the detox, my anxiety eased, and my sleep improved massively. I feel calmer and much more in tune with my body now.

 

And throughout all of this, Mama  Shrooms have been my steady support.

Here’s what I take and why:

 

Cordyceps has helped with energy and libido—which, let’s be honest, can take a nosedive during perimenopause. It supports adrenal function and helps your body produce ATP (your cellular energy). It’s helped me feel more switched on—mentally and physically.

Lion’s Mane

For the brain fog. It’s helped with clarity, memory, and focus. Lion’s Mane supports nerve health and brain function, which is huge when your hormones are all over the place.

 

 

This has been my go-to for winding down. It helps calm the nervous system and lowers cortisol—perfect if you’re feeling wired and can’t sleep. I feel more rested and grounded since taking it.

 

A powerful antioxidant that supports immunity and reduces inflammation—giving your hormones the space to function properly. It’s the quiet support working in the background.

 

All of our mushrooms are organic and dual-extracted to get the full range of benefits.

• Alcohol extracts pull out triterpenes—amazing for hormone modulation, stress, and inflammation.

• Hot water extracts bring out beta-glucans and polysaccharides—for immune support, gut health, and resilience.

Together, you get the full spectrum. Nothing left behind.

 

I’m not claiming to have it all figured out. But I’m starting to feel more like myself again—steadier, clearer, and more in tune with what I need. If you’re in the thick of it too, I promise you’re not alone.

Gem x