How I Start My Day: The Simple Habit That Supports Gut Health, Reduces Inflammation & Balances Hormones in Midlife.

As a nutritionist who works with women in midlife, I’m always looking for simple, sustainable ways to support the body’s natural processes—especially when hormones start shifting, digestion feels sluggish, and inflammation begins to show up in ways we didn’t expect.

One of my favorite non-negotiables every morning? A ginger lemon shot. It’s one of the easiest and most powerful ways to support your gut, reduce bloating, and start the day feeling light, energized, and in control.

Let me break down why this tiny habit deserves a spot in your morning routine—especially in perimenopause and menopause.

The Power Behind This Simple Combo

Lemon

Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function and skin health
Stimulates the liver and bile production, aiding detoxification
Helps alkalize the body and improve hydration first thing in the morning
Naturally supports regular digestion

Ginger

A potent anti-inflammatory root—key for calming chronic inflammation often seen in midlife
Stimulates digestion and helps food move more efficiently through the GI tract
Eases bloating and nausea
Supports blood sugar balance and may reduce cravings

Optional: A Pinch of Cayenne

Boosts metabolism
Increases circulation
Adds a warming effect that stimulates digestion

Why It Matters in Midlife

In our 40s and 50s, our bodies are navigating shifting hormones, slower digestion, and often, an increase in gut sensitivity. You might notice:

More bloating after meals
Increased food sensitivities
Morning fatigue
Slower metabolism
Skin changes
Brain fog

These changes are often linked to underlying gut inflammation, blood sugar imbalances, and poor liver detoxification—all of which can be gently supported with something as simple as a ginger lemon shot.

How I Make It (and You Can Too)

My Go-To Morning Shot Recipe:

Juice of 1/2 to 1 lemon
1 inch fresh ginger, grated or juiced
Warm water (optional, but easier on digestion)
Optional: A pinch of cayenne or turmeric for extra benefits

Mix and drink on an empty stomach before coffee or breakfast. It takes less than 2 minutes and the benefits last all day. I often make a big batch in my juicer and freeze in ice cube trays.

What My Clients Notice When They Start

Women I work with often tell me this small shift makes a big difference in how they feel within just a week or two:

“My bloat is gone by mid-morning instead of lasting all day.”
“I’m more regular and feel lighter.”
“I’m not reaching for sugar right after breakfast.”
“I love how energized I feel!”

And the best part? It’s simple and sustainable. No fancy equipment or supplements. Just whole, healing foods and a commitment to your health.

Want to Build More Gut-Supportive Habits?

Starting your day with intention can shift the trajectory of your hormones, your gut, and your energy—especially in midlife when your body needs more nourishment and support, not more restriction.

If you’re curious about layering in more anti-inflammatory, gut-friendly habits into your daily life, I’d love to guide you.

Because feeling good in your body again is possible—one simple habit at a time. 💛

Book a free discovery call with me https://pages.taniamercuri.ca/calendar ,

and let’s chat about your next best step.

❤️ Tania

Certified Nutritionist | Gut Health Specialist | Midlife Wellness.

Because you were never meant to feel “blah” in your body. Let's change that—together.