Menopause Milestone
A woman’s life is never dull and as the middle years begin, so too does a rite of passage that can bring with it a whole host of undesirable symptoms!
Yet with knowledge comes power and the journey of menopause can be a time of life in which we can grab the reigns and charge forward into a new phase that is more enlightening and positive than ever before.
Change is never easy and menopause brings with it a multitude of physical symptoms as well as emotional ones.
The hot flushes, night sweats, insomnia, mood swings and skin that can hark back to our teenage years, is no fun at all!
As our body stops producing oestrogen, the skin becomes dry and thinner as collagen production decreases and cell turnover slows. Skin that was once balanced and calm can start to break out in pimples.
Post menopause our bodies are exposed to higher risk of certain diseases such as heart disease, bone, joint problems and breast cancer.
From our 40s, we need to focus on diet and lifestyle to keep us protected in our later years. Research suggests some foods may actually be menopause busting foods! Lentils and chickpeas contain phytoestrogens, a natural form of oestrogen found in plants. Oily fish, nuts and seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids to help counter menopausal memory loss.
Foods containing tryptophan can help to ease mood swings by stimulating the production of the feel-good brain chemical, serotonin, so up your intake of eggs, cheese, salmon and turkey.
Keeping the body moving and supple is also a great way to keep the symptoms and possible future ailments at bay. Meditation, yoga and tai chi are fantastic options to heal both body and mind.
While menopause can be difficult, ageing can be viewed as a privilege and a time of life not to shy away from. Support from friends and family and open discussion, is a sure way to bring light to the end of the tunnel and a healthier, happier approach to this significant time in a woman’s life.