There are a lot of ways to stay healthy during this time in your life. These steps are more likely to keep you healthy than just taking hormones.
Be active and get more exercise. Try to get at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. Try weight-bearing exercises, like walking, running or dancing. If you smoke, quit. Ask your doctor for help.
Eat healthy. Eat lots of whole-grain products, vegetables, and fruits. Choose foods low in fat and cholesterol. Get enough calcium to keep your bones strong. Before menopause you need about 1,000mg of calcium per day. After menopause you need 1,500mg per day. If you drink alcohol, limit it to no more than one drink per day.
Control your weight. Ask your doctor what a healthy weight is for you. Talk with you doctor and get regular checkups.
Discuss bone health. Ask if you're getting enough calcium and vitamin D. Get a Bone Density Test if you are older than 65, or if your doctor says you have a high chance of Osteoporosis. Ask about taking medicine to help preserve bone and slow down bone loss.
Have your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar checked. Have a breast exam and a breast x-ray (mammogram)
Researchers used to think that thin women have the worse menopausal symptoms. But researchers are now finding that the opposite is true ~ the heavier the woman, the worse some menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes or night sweats, actually are.
Who should NOT take hormone therapy for menopause ~
Women who
- think they are pregnant
- have problems with vaginal bleeding
- have had certain kinds of cancers (such as breast and uterine cancer)
- have had a stroke or heart attack
- have had blood clots
- have liver disease
Just remember menopause is a normal change in you life. You can feel better by learning all you can about menopause and by talking with your doctor about your health and your symptoms. If you want to treat your symptoms, he or she can teach you more about your options and help you make the best treatment choices.
Part 1 - What's it all About Any?
Part 2 - Treatments for Menopause
Part 3- Practical Ways to Help Your Symptoms
Part 4 ~ Healthy Living During Menopause
To Your Continued Health and Success!
No comments:
Post a Comment