18/10/2023
📆 Today marks World Menopause Day.
🔊 As a coach dedicated to women's health, I want to spread the word far and wide. Lifestyle changes: adopting a regular exercise routine, following a diet of balanced, whole foods, practicing self-care and stress management can make the world of difference to your journey through menopause. Check back here for regular tips and knowledge bites to help you along your way.
Hormonal changes associated with menopause can have wide-ranging impacts on cardiovascular health – that’s why cardiovascular health is this year’s theme for World Menopause Day 2023.
🏃♀️ It is important for all women to adopt a regular exercise routine of strength training, cardio, and mobility and flexibility. Positive lifestyle changes can have a huge impact on overall health. Time to get moving ladies!
💔 Cardiovascular disease is the number 1 killer for women.
1 in every 5 deaths in the U.S. are due to heart disease.
Here are a few ways menopause affects cardiovascular health:
💜 A decline in estrogen levels during menopause can increase cardiovascular risk factors, like high blood pressure
💜 A reduction in estrogen can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, the hardening and narrowing of arteries due to the accumulation of plaque. This can increase the risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke.
💜 Changes in hormone levels during menopause can contribute to an increase in blood pressure
💜 Diabetes Risk: Menopause can also increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is itself a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease
What is menopause?
Menopause is defined as when a year (12 months) has passed since the final menstrual period. This marks the beginning of women’s mature life following approximately 30-45 years of reproductive life. The average age of menopause in western countries is approximately 51. The average age of menopause is younger in smokers and those who have never had children (nulliparous). Low levels of both estrogen and progesterone are common after menopause.
Peri-menopause can last 10-15 years for some women. It is in this phase where unusual symptoms may crop up for some women. Every woman will experience it differently, but some have reported: brain fog, insomnia, weight gain, anxiety, night sweats, headaches, low libido, fatigue, depression, panic attacks, mood swings, unusually heavy bleeding or spotting, irregular periods, hot flushes, and joint and muscles pain. It can be a lot to deal with and a confusing time as a woman.