As I celebrated my 50th birthday, surrounded by loved ones…well, Mark, because it was during the pandemic, so we celebrated at home… I couldn’t help but reflect on my life and the future I wanted to create. While I was grateful for the years gone by, I also noticed subtle changes in my body and mind that I couldn’t ignore. That’s when I realized my nutritional needs were evolving like mine.  It was time to focus on revitalizing life and embracing nutritional wisdom for a vibrant future.

 

In my earlier years, I could skip meals or indulge in sweets without much thought. But as I approached 50, things changed. My metabolism seemed to have its own agenda, peri-menopause hit me like a bus, and my energy levels weren’t what they used to be. It was a wake-up call to reassess my diet with nutritional wisdom and true intention. 

 

The Foodie Challenge

As a foodie, this was going to be a challenge.  Although I changed to a more plant-forward diet years ago, I still indulged.  Embarking on this journey of nutritional discovery wasn’t just about physical health but a holistic pursuit. I needed to learn about the nutrition needed in this stage of life that could revitalize my body, sharpen my mind, and balance my emotions.  Hello, peri-menopause, again. 

 

I delved into research, spoke with nutritionists, and attended workshops specific to menopause.  I already knew how certain foods could support bone health, boost cognitive functions, and even uplift my mood; only now, I was the client seeking guidance.  Calcium, vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants were part of my diet, but now it was time to give them more focus.

 

 As I revamped my diet, a wide variety of new leafy greens, ancient whole grains, lean proteins, and more healthy fats found their way onto my plate. (Okay, pizza still finds its way onto that plate sometimes, but hey, you gotta live!) I embraced mindful eating, savoring each bite and listening to my body’s cues. It wasn’t just about eating right; it was about nurturing myself.

 

The changes were profound. Physically, I felt stronger and more energetic. Mentally, I was sharper and more focused. Emotionally, I found a new sense of balance and calmness. This wasn’t just a diet change but a lifestyle transformation that benefitted me and my husband. He noticed the changes, probably more in my mood, and supported my plant-forward choices by joining me. As he says, he is a vegetarian… on the side. 

 

As a healthy lifestyle coach, this journey taught me that understanding and adapting to our nutritional needs leading up to and after 50 is crucial for longevity and living a vibrant, fulfilling life. It’s about respecting our bodies, caring for our minds, and nourishing our spirits.

 

Nutrition: Your Positive Energy Boost

Embracing my nutritional needs after 50 has opened doors to a vast new world of wellness. It’s a journey I continue to explore daily, with each meal and choice a step towards a healthier, happier me. And for those who don’t know me well, I’m a pretty happy and positive person.   What you eat affects how you feel, your mindset, and the energy you put into the world.  

Let’s spread the positive energy together!  Get your Forever Wellness Toolbox and get started by scheduling your personal strategy call today. 

Image: Mark and Denise Stegall Pre Turkey Trot 2023!

Denise Stegall

Denise Stegall

Meet Denise E. Stegall, the CEO and Curator of Living Healthy List.com. With 25 years of experience and study in nutrition, cooking, exercise, and coaching, she helps female entrepreneurs and businesswomen curate a healthy, happy, and productive life.

As an inspirational thought leader, Denise provides honest, research-backed information on health, wellness, personal development, and fun for real-life application. Her platform, Living Healthy List, is a go-to community for health and wellness resources, empowering positive changes and creating the life you want.

Denise’s background in nutrition and her philosophy of “Eat Real Food, Make Good Decisions, and Be Accountable” shaped her International Best Seller, “Healthy Living, Happy Life: A Practical Path to Finding the Healthy Lifestyle That Works for You!”

She goes beyond her book and Living Healthy List to offer “Forever Wellness Lifestyle ,” a groundbreaking group coaching model with individualized roadmaps for true health, balance, stress management, confidence, and an uplifting lifestyle. Denise E. Stegall is devoted to empowering individuals to embrace holistic well-being and fulfillment.

“Living a healthy lifestyle does not have to be hard! “