You can take these beauties almost anywhere and serve them to almost anyone - they’re gluten free, dairy free, grain free, refined sugar free and low FADMAP, so if you don’t know what to take to a gathering, make these. As well as having so many common dietary intolerances covered they’re paleo and vegan. They’re extremely wholesome for a cookie, but still manage to be rich, chewy and crunchy with a great nutty toastiness. Plus, they’re put together in one bowl in about 10 minutes. Super easy! I hope you love them.

This delicate slow-cooked pork belly gives up a glorious floral aroma thanks to an unusual combination of fragrant spices. It’s surprisingly light to eat, especially served with some steamed rice, veggies and pickles, with the delicious broth spooned over.

In the clinic I’m often shocked to discover how little we understand about menopause as a society. Most perimenopausal women have never had the purpose of menopause explained to them and don’t understand what is happening in their bodies and why. We make the assumptions as a society that it’s going to be a terrible time, that there won’t be much we can do about it and that we’ll be relieved when it’s over. We certainly rarely discuss the opportunities that menopause presents a woman or how she can use this amazing transitional time to her advantage. And we certainly rarely celebrate the beauty, grace and wisdom of the older woman. I’m going to discuss all of this here, and my wish is that you feel empowered by this information as you move onwards with your perimenopause journey.

Eating a plant-based or vegetarian diet takes a little more care and thought than an omnivore’s diet. If you’re not eating meat, the key to getting all the nutrients you need lies in variety. It’s important to include all the food groups; vegetable, wholegrains, legumes, dairy, nuts, seeds and fruit, and to explore widely within these groups. Many of us tend to stick to our comfort foods – things we like that we know how to prepare quickly and easily. In order to truly experience vital health, it’s important to branch out, experiment, and discover what each of our wonderful, unique bodies requires. So go forth and graze widely!