By Morgana, Founder of Roots San Francisco

When I first entered perimenopause, I didn’t expect it to affect every part of me — my skin, mood, energy, and even how I related to food. The hormone changes — estrogen, progesterone and testosterone — brought waves of brain fog, bloating, and tiredness. I also began to notice more emotional ups and downs, which sometimes led to late-night snacking and cravings I couldn’t explain.

I’m on hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which has been a critical anchor. But beyond that, I wanted something holistic — something that supported me inside-out. That’s when I returned to the Roots San Francisco products I already trusted, focusing on the ones that helped me with energy, mood, skin and body balance.

My Turning Point

As the hormonal transition progressed, I started to gain weight. It wasn’t just about the number on the scale. I noticed my metabolism shifting, my body changing how it stored energy, and the cravings growing stronger. Stress and anxiety made me reach for food when I didn’t even realize I was emotional-eating.

Going back to Roots San Francisco’s weight-support line helped me regain a sense of control. Rather than punishing myself, I chose to nourish myself. I started seeing fewer cravings, steadier energy, a calmer mind, and a body that felt more aligned again.

My Daily Support System

1. VitaGlow Collagen Gummies

With hormone changes, collagen production naturally declines, which affects skin firmness, hydration and overall appearance. I started taking VitaGlow Collagen Gummies to help replenish what was being lost. The added vitamins and biotin also supported hair and nails, which had begun to show signs of thinning or fragility.

2. Skin Glow Mushroom Gummies

These were my morning “boost”, a blend of ten adaptogenic mushrooms (Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga…) that support the body’s stress response, energy, focus and skin resilience. When I felt brain-fog or low energy creeping in, the Skin Glow Mushroom Gummies helped me feel clearer, calmer and more grounded.

3. Skin Probiotic 40 Billion

Gut health plays a huge role in hormone balance, metabolism and skin. Using the Skin Probiotic 40 Billion brought real improvements: less bloating, better digestion, and something subtle but powerful — fewer moments when I turned to food for comfort rather than nourishment. My cravings started to soften.

4. Bright Skin Complex (Chaga Mushroom Extract)

During this transition, I noticed skin inflammation, sensitivity and uneven tone more than ever before. I added the Bright Skin Complex to my routine. With Chaga’s antioxidant power, my skin began to calm, repair and regain a more even glow.

5. FatBlast with MCT

When I noticed weight gaining, I introduced the FatBlast with MCT. This formula uses medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil, along with other botanical extracts, to support metabolism and fat­-burning in a gentle yet effective way. For me, this meant more steady energy and a body that felt more responsive rather than resistant.

6. Slim Drops

In addition to the FatBlast, I also used Slim Drops, a liquid weight-support option from the Roots San Francisco line. It features a concentrated blend of organic botanicals like green tea extract, dandelion root, and natural fibers — all designed to support natural weight management, digestion and water retention. On days when I felt anxious or my cravings kicked in, the Slim Drops helped reduce the emotional pull toward food and made that emotional connection with eating diminish.

What I’ve Noticed

1. My brain fog started to lift; I feel more present, clearer in meetings, writing and daily tasks.

2. My energy shape stabilized: fewer crashes, more consistent stamina for walking, work and creative projects.

3. My skin is firmer, more hydrated, and calmer — less reactive even on “hormone shift” days.

4. My gut/surface connection: less bloating, fewer “off” days, fewer emotional food moments.

5. Weight wise — the “extra cushion” around my middle, the extra 2-5 lbs creeping in, started to soften. More importantly, the urge to comfort-eat eased, I felt more choice and control.

6. Emotionally: I feel less defined by this phase. I feel empowered rather than overwhelmed.

Why This Matters During Perimenopause

This transition isn’t just about hormones dipping. It’s a cascade: hormones shift → metabolism changes → skin, gut, mood, energy all ripple. Using supports that target multiple systems helps create alignment. Mushrooms and adaptogens for stress and focus. Probiotics for gut & skin balance. Collagen and Chaga for structural support and inflammation. FatBlast and Slim Drops for metabolism and cravings. Together with HRT, nutrition, sleep and movement, it becomes a complete “body-of-me” strategy.

 My Tips If You’re Considering This

Talk with your healthcare provider before starting new supplements — especially alongside HRT or medication. 

• Introduce one product at a time: track how you feel (energy, mood, skin, cravings, body shape) over 4-6 weeks.
  
• Nourish your body: stay hydrated, sleep well, move your body, eat nutrient-dense meals. Supplements don’t replace foundational habits.
  
• Be consistent: Change comes from small daily choices, not occasional bursts.
  
• Be kind with yourself: This isn’t about perfection. It’s about resonance — what your body needs now.
  
• Use your intuition: Some days you’ll need more gut support, others more metabolism support. Listen.

My Message to Women Going Through This

If you’re reading this and you’re navigating perimenopause or menopause — know this: you’re not alone. Your body is not a problem; it’s a partner in a new phase. For me, combining HRT with holistic support from the Roots San Francisco line has helped me feel vibrant again.

This is not about chasing youth. It’s about honoring your body’s shift, nourishing it, and aligning with your evolving self. Choose support that feels right for YOU. Be gentle. Be consistent. And remember: you deserve to age beautifully, from the inside-out.

With love,

Morgana Queiroz