BOSTON -- Recently, one of our readers wrote in asking if it is possible to lose weight, and even go down a dress size, during perimenopause. Great question and probably one that more than one of you may be asking. The answer is yes (unless you have a medical condition that requires treatment by a physician.) But a solution to this situation definitely requires a plan – and of course, "a magic formula"

This magic formula consists of the following:

Nutrition: Women are already at high risk for stress eating of carbs and fats. Add changes in hormone levels and watch out, any thought of healthy eating goes out the window. So, start keeping a food log. Record everything -- yes, every single thing you eat and drink for 3 to 4 consecutive days. This may seem like an inconvenience, but remember it’s important in helping you understand what’s really going on with your caloric intake and your choices. This can be a real eye opener! What do YOU choose to eat when you are experiencing menopausal symptoms, are stressed, or just busy? Start thinking about healthy/smart choices. A food log makes you accountable -- if only to yourself. And who’s more important than you?

Exercise: Yes, another log -- record your activity and exercise routine for at least a week. Take a realistic look at what may feel like being "too busy" versus real physical activity/exercise. Are you making excuses NOT to exercise because you don’t feel like yourself? Or, are you stuck in an exercise routine that you have done for years and is no longer producing results, or feels too stressful for your body? If you have been doing the same workout for a year, 6 months, or even the last three months, remember that your body adjusts to the workload you give it. Along with the other changes that are taking place in your body you may need to make exercise changes to see some results. It may be time to consult with a personal trainer or set up a new exercise regime on your own.

Stress Reduction: Although stress can't be completely avoided, it is important that you try to minimize it. Uncontrolled it will trigger even more hormonal imbalances that seem to show up in greater fatty deposits in the mid-section. So, take time for YOU. Enjoy a yoga class, walk, get a massage, or take a bubble bath - all can lift your spirits and even take the edge off a stressful time of life and hormonal changes. Find something that is just for you.

Each of these are important and will help you as you plan your own personal strategy for beating the battle of the scale and mid-section often associated with perimenopause.