Menopause refers to the end of monthly menstruation and officially begins 12 months after a woman's final menstrual period. Often termed "the big change," menopause typically starts at around the age of 50. A variety of physiological changes are brought on by shifts in hormones in the brain and throughout the body.
Improving your diet and exercising more frequently can help to reduce the severity of menopause symptoms like mood swings, hot flashes and excessive fatigue. A few foods to avoid are fatty meats like bacon, pork shoulder and beef brisket, as the body begins storing fat in a different way during menopause. Levels of the stress hormone cortisol are higher in general, making it easier for your system to store fatty deposits around the abdomen. Caffeine is also discouraged because it has been shown to contribute to night sweats, hot flashes and problems sleeping. If you simply must have your coffee or soft drink to get you up and moving in the morning, opt for a single serving and avoid all caffeine after noon.
Though all of the stresses and fatigue associated with menopause may leave you searching for a way to wind down and relax, doctors say that turning to alcohol regularly isn't a good idea. Alcoholic beverages are linked to hot flashes, increased moodiness and chronic fatigue in women enduring menopause, and the additional calories really don't help when it comes to keeping the infamous "menopause belly" at bay, either.
For some women, menopause triggers unexpected mental and emotional issues like depression and anxiety. It can be especially difficult for a woman to endure these feelings on her own, particularly if it feels as if her partner or family members aren't taking it seriously. Try to remember that everyone has to go through it and you are not alone in your experiences, whether they be positive, negative or neutral. Sometimes, surviving menopause and everything that comes with it means being aware of when it's time to get help from a doctor or therapist. A trained professional with experience in this area can help you learn how to best manage your physical symptoms and any emotional issues that may have become a problem. Understanding and compassion can go a long way in promoting a helpful, favorable environment while your body undergoes this essential change.