Menopause is a special time for women when their bodies begin producing less estrogen. This change leads to physical changes that can affect your physical and mental health.
However, following these five simple tips can help prepare you for this transformation and maintain good mental and physical health throughout menopause.
Eating healthily to combat problems like osteoporosis and other joint problems is vital during menopause.
Part of eating healthy during this stage of life involves reducing your red meat intake. Doing so helps to decrease inflammation, as does increasing the amount of vegetables you eat.
Nuts are a great addition to your diet as they can give you the protein and some nutrients you may have gotten from red meat. And eating more fruit adds in a natural dosage of vitamins.
Along with these additions to your diet, though, you should avoid processed foods and sugar. These foods inevitably lead to weight gain and can even contribute to the development of conditions like diabetes.
The older you get, the harder it is to lose weight. However, especially during menopause maintaining a healthy weight will help reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes.
If your weight needs some attention, set a few realistic goals to start.
Cutting out out sugar and sweets is a good way to get any weight loss off the ground. Then, add in a goal of losing a specific number of pounds.
Once you reach that goal, you'll find you're already in the habit of not eating junk.
Along your way to weight management, also be sure to keep your portion sizes and the amount of carbohydrates you eat in check for added benefits.
Exercising offers benefits like improved circulation, better joint health and stress reduction. Try swimming, walking, yoga or golf, and make sure you get in some active time at least three days a week.
If you keep putting some active time into your schedule week after week, then before you know it, exercise will become part of your routine. Then you won't have to strain or stress about finding time to exercise at all.
But before you start any rigorous exercise program, be sure to check with your doctor. Your doctor may also be able to suggest some activities for you to try if you're having trouble finding something that fits your lifestyle.
As you get older and menopause hits, make sure you get an annual check up with your doctor to ensure you are in good shape.
Your blood pressure can creep up insidiously, and increased blood pressure can lead to a variety of complications. So it's important to keep on eye on it. Making a check up with your doctor part of your annual medical routine can help you monitor your blood pressure and find ways to keep it in a healthy range.
Take some time each day to focus on relaxing and doing what you enjoy, and make time for a big treat every few weeks.
Whether that treat is a massage or sitting quietly with a good book, you need to take time out for yourself.
Menopause is a natural experience for women, but facing menopause unprepared can lead to discomfort and frustration. To help make this time in your life easier, use these five simple tips. Doing so will help you prepare for one of the biggest changes in your life.
