These are commonly used to support women with insulin resistance and perimenopause. Check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting supplements.
Magnesium Glycinate
200–400 mg before bed
Benefits:
- Better sleep
- Less anxiety and irritability
- Reduced muscle aches
- May improve insulin sensitivity
Omega-3 Fish Oil
1,000–2,000 mg EPA/DHA daily
Benefits:
- Supports heart health
- Reduces inflammation
- May help with mood and joint discomfort
Vitamin D3
Dose based on blood test results
Many Australian women are low in Vitamin D.
Benefits:
- Bone health
- Mood support
- Immune function
Electrolytes
Especially important when starting keto.
Look for:
- Sodium
- Potassium
- Magnesium
Benefits:
- Prevent headaches
- Reduce fatigue
- Minimise keto flu symptoms
Creatine Monohydrate
3–5 g daily
This is becoming increasingly recommended for women over 40.
Benefits:
- Helps preserve muscle
- Supports strength training
- May improve brain function and energy
- Can help offset age-related muscle loss
Protein Powder (Optional)
If you struggle to reach your protein target.
Look for:
- Whey isolate
- Collagen + whey blend
Aim for 100–130 g protein daily.
Example Daily Supplement Routine
Morning (while fasting)
- Electrolytes in water
- Omega-3
- Vitamin D3
First Meal (12 pm)
- Omega-3 (if taking split dose)
Evening
- Magnesium glycinate
Any Time
- Creatine 3–5 g daily
Additional Tips for Insulin Resistance & Perimenopause
- Walk for 10–15 minutes after lunch and dinner.
- Aim for 7,000–10,000 steps daily.
- Do resistance training 3 times per week.
- Focus on protein first, carbs second.
- Measure waist circumference monthly rather than weighing yourself every day.
- Be patient: many women notice improvements in energy, bloating, cravings, and blood sugar control within 4–8 weeks, while significant fat loss and metabolic improvements often take 3–6 months.
A particularly effective combination for insulin resistance in perimenopause is:
16:8 intermittent fasting + 100–130 g protein daily + strength training 3x weekly + 7–8 hours sleep. This tends to work better long-term than relying on keto alone.