Kelly Schmidt, RD, LDN

Can Autoimmune Diseases Like Type 1 Diabetes Lead to Early Menopause?

Yes, conditions like Type 1 diabetes can contribute to an earlier menopause due to:

**Hormone Imbalance**
Type 1 diabetes can disrupt insulin and estrogen levels, affecting ovarian function.

**Chronic Inflammation**
Autoimmune diseases often increase inflammation, which may put added stress on the ovaries.

**High Cortisol**
Living with an autoimmune condition can elevate stress, disrupting hormones and possibly impacting menopause timing.

Being informed is empowering—understanding how your body functions helps you navigate these changes with confidence and care. Join us this Friday at 12pm for our webinar on "Perimenopause and & Weight Loss," to learn key strategies to take care of yourself in the best way in this season of life.

Perimenopause brings about natural hormonal shifts, but with these changes, some unexpected symptoms can pop up—like constipation.

Here’s why it happens and how to support your body during this time:

✨ Estrogen’s Influence on Digestion
During perimenopause, estrogen levels can fluctuate, affecting gut motility (how well food moves through the digestive system). Lower estrogen levels can slow down digestion, making constipation more common.

✨ The Role of Progesterone
Higher progesterone levels can also relax smooth muscle tissue, including in the intestines, which may slow bowel movements and contribute to that bloated, backed-up feeling. Progesterone is often the first hormone to drop in peri-menopause.

✨ Stress and Cortisol
Perimenopause is a time of change, and stress often accompanies these hormonal shifts. Elevated cortisol levels can impact digestion further, disrupting regularity, impacting the health if the gut lining, inflammation and more.

Tips for Gentle Relief?

Tune into our webinar this Friday at 12pm ET on "Perimenopause & Weightloss," to uncover the right things to focus on for the best impact.

Questions? Send me an email, [email protected]

You can register with this link (30% off atm) or click our IG profile link.

As a dietitian and small business owner, I receive many partnership offers from various “health” companies.

While I’ve chosen to work with the brands listed here, I turn down many others. I share these selected best health product affiliate links with your health in mind. Enjoy the savings below, and feel free to reach out with any questions!

Top Nutrition Affiliate Deals: Exclusive Discounts on Trusted Health Brands - T1D Functional Nutrition As a dietitian and small business owner, I receive many partnership offers from various “health” companies. While I’ve chosen to work with the brands listed here, I turn down many others. I share these selected best health product affiliate links with your health in mind. Enjoy the savings bel...

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Understanding How Estrogen Levels Shift Over the Decades—and What to Do About It

Women’s health needs evolve with each life stage, especially as estrogen levels naturally fluctuate. Here’s how those changes may impact health over the decades, and some actionable ways to support hormone balance along the way:

20s-30s: Estrogen typically peaks, supporting regular menstrual cycles. However, lifestyle factors like stress and diet can still cause imbalance. Prioritizing nutrient-dense foods, regular movement, and stress management can help keep hormones in check.

40s (Perimenopause): Estrogen levels start to shift, leading to mood swings, weight changes, and more. It’s key to focus on balanced meals (protein, fiber, and healthy fats) and consistent strength training to navigate this “second puberty” smoothly.

50s (Menopause): Estrogen declines, often affecting bone density, sleep, and heart health. Support bone health with foods rich in calcium and vitamin D, and prioritize movement to stay active and strong.

60s and Beyond: Though estrogen levels remain low, focusing on heart and bone health, balanced nutrition, and reducing stress are essential to overall wellness.

➡️ Support for All Ages: Gut health, quality sleep, and stress management play a crucial role in keeping estrogen and overall health more balanced at every stage.

Join Me for a Webinar 📅 - I’m hosting a session on Perimenopause, Weight Loss, and Core Health Needs. We’ll dive into how perimenopause can impact weight, energy, and hormone balance, with practical solutions tailored for this stage.

💻 Register to learn strategies for feeling strong and supported throughout this transition!
https://ksw.wellproz.com/patient/product/41164

🗓️ Upcoming Webinar: Nov 1st! 🗓️
Topic: Perimenopause in T1D & Weight Loss 💪

Join me on November 1st for an informative webinar on navigating weight loss during perimenopause with a focus on type 1 diabetes! We'll cover how to optimize your metabolism, balance your hormones, and feel your best during this phase of life. 🌸

✨ PLUS: I’ll also be sharing my top supplement recommendations that can support your hormonal health and weight management goals. 💊

Don’t miss out! Sign up today— https://ksw.wellproz.com/patient/product/41164 🔗

Save 15% on Aloha Bars! 🍂 Use code "T1D" at checkout or click this link: aloha.com/T1D to grab one of the delicious fall flavors!

A trending question from my private nutrition clients this week has been about my go-to bars for busy days—whether as a quick addition to a meal or a healthy snack. If you’re wondering the same thing, here’s my top pick: Aloha Bars. They’re a great option when you need something nutritious on the go!

Enjoy the discount and fuel up!

Diabetes comes in many forms—Type 1, Type 2, gestational, double diabetes, and even Alzheimer’s, often called Type 3 diabetes.

Each presents its own challenges, but I'm on a mission to help others defy the odds, take control of their health, and thrive despite these diagnoses. You deserve to feel empowered and supported on your wellness journey. Let’s conquer this together!

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Monday Mindset for T1D ✨

This week, focus on what makes you feel your best and embrace each day as it comes. 💙

I’m excited to invite you to the JCC (Jewish Center of Cols right outside of Bexley, OH) FitFest this Sunday! I’ll be kicking off the event as the first speaker at 9am, and it’s open to everyone—even if you’re not a member. Feel free to reach out with any questions. My talk and topic description are included below, and I look forward to seeing you there!

https://columbusjcc.org/fit-fest/

In this talk, “Perimenopause & Weight Gain: 3 Game-Changing Strategies for Success,” we’ll dive into the hormonal shifts and challenges women face during perimenopause that often lead to weight gain. Discover three powerful strategies to help manage weight, balance hormones, and improve overall well-being during this transformative stage of life. Whether navigating this phase yourself or supporting others through it, these practical, science-backed approaches will set you up for lasting success.

Kelly Schmidt is a registered dietitian, fitness and yoga instructor, wife, and mother of two. She founded Kelly Schmidt Wellness, LLC where she leads a virtual nutrition practice. Kelly also offers integrative nutrition programs customized to each client’s needs. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Dietetics from Ohio University and completed her Didactic Program in Dietetics at Loyola University Chicago.

Columbus Jewish News

Fit Fest Sample group exercise classes | informational sessions from specialists & doctors | health & wellness vendors | Preschool/youth sports demo classes| pickleball |kids programing | Raffle prizes | food |membership specials

Eating seasonal fruits and vegetables is a simple way to boost your health, especially for managing Type 1 diabetes. Here’s how it helps:

- Nutrient-Rich: Seasonal produce is fresher and loaded with essential vitamins.
- Blood Sugar Control: Whole foods with lower glycemic indexes can support stable blood sugar levels.
- Break the Food Rut: Incorporating seasonal options can add variety to your meals and help you explore new flavors.
- Local Support: Buying local reduces environmental impact and supports community farmers.
- Cost-Effective: Seasonal produce tends to be more affordable.

This fall, try crisp apples, vibrant greens, and hearty squash to refresh your meals and enhance your nutrition.

What’s your go-to seasonal food? Let me know!

Living with Type 1 Diabetes comes with its share of mental and physical challenges. But despite these hurdles, there’s always hope.

We are incredibly resilient, and together we can support one another in managing this condition. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey.

Excited to announce that I’m in the midst of a brand refresh, redesigning the offerings for our private practice. While working on this, I came across a quote from 2019 that really resonates:

"Isn’t life all about finding happiness and pursuing what we’re passionate about?"

Living with my own health challenges has revealed a silver lining—the opportunity to turn my struggles into a message that empowers others to transform their lives.

Stay tuned—more exciting things are on the way!

JDRF19 FundACure This is footage from the live FAC portion of the JDRF Gala for Columbus, OH 2019. The hosts of the evening introduced my family as the Fund A Cure Champions,...

You are my truest friend. My life. My hub. I love you ❤️. Happy 13!

Don’t forget to stop and smell the roses. 🌹

We often think we have time, but nothing in life is guaranteed.

Take a moment today to pause, appreciate the small things, and be present in the here and now.

You owe it to yourself.

You're not alone—navigating the latest advice can be overwhelming.

While recent studies highlight the benefits of berries for Type 1 Diabetes, don’t disregard oats, especially if they're certified gluten-free.

Until more consistent research emerges, listen to your body and how different foods affect you.

If you’d like personalized guidance, I’m here to help you cut through the noise and thrive with practical advice. Just reach out!

🚨 T1D Gut Health Alert! 🚨

Modern life—stress, processed foods, lack of sleep—can take a toll on our gut, making it harder to stay healthy. 📉

For those with autoimmune disease, the risk of leaky gut is even higher, leading to inflammation, discomfort, and worsened symptoms. Your gut is your health foundation, and it’s essential to nurture it with care. 🌱

🔑 What can you do?

- Prioritize whole, nutrient-dense foods
- Manage stress and get quality sleep
- Tailor your approach to YOUR unique needs

Your gut isn’t “one size fits all.” By listening to your body and taking action, you can protect your gut and support long-term health. 💪

"Sorry, I was constipated," says no one ever.

But the truth is, people get cranky when they are backed up.

What might be the cause of your non-daily bowel movements? It can be a number of things, but the most frequent thing I see in practice include:

1. food sensitivities
2. an imbalance of good gut bacteria, or what is dysbiosis
3. low enzyme production
4. time, or lack of. Using the restroom comes with a routine and having time to stop.....and, well go!

If you want to feel better and improve your bowels, review this list and let me know how I can help.

Your liver is the unsung hero of your body, working tirelessly to detoxify, balance hormones, and metabolize fats. In functional medicine, we understand that supporting your liver is key to overall health. Here’s how you can give your liver the love it deserves:

Eat Liver-Loving Foods: Incorporate leafy greens, beets, garlic, and cruciferous veggies like broccoli and Brussels sprouts. These foods help your liver detoxify and function at its best. 🥦

Hydrate with Lemon Water: Start your day with a glass of warm lemon water. It stimulates liver enzymes and aids in the detox process. 🍋

Support with Supplements: join our seasonal 2 week cleanse. 🌱

Reduce Toxins: Cut down on alcohol, processed foods, and environmental toxins. Your liver will thank you! 🚫

Prioritize Sleep: Your liver does most of its detox work while you sleep. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality rest each night. 😴

Supporting your liver isn’t just about detox—it’s about giving your body the foundation it needs to thrive. Want to learn more? Let’s connect!

As a dietitian coach, successful counseling involves educating, aligning with your values, and instilling hope in your healing journey.

I recently sought a second opinion myself, and the experience of being truly heard, with a focus on solutions and hope, made a profound difference.

If you're seeking a health coach to bring hope and guidance to your wellness journey, I'm here to help. Reach out anytime.