MENOPAUSE………WOMEN’S HEALTH

MENOPAUSE………WOMEN’S HEALTH

n  When a woman’s reproductive system slows down and eventually stops around the age of 50, this is called a menopause. Menopause occurs as the ovaries stop producing estrogen, causing the reproductive system to gradually shut down. Each and every one of the aged females has to pass through the period of menopause.

n  Menopause, or the permanent end of menstruation and fertility, is a natural biological process, not a medical illness. Even so, the physical and emotional symptoms of menopause can disrupt your sleep, sap your energy and — at least indirectly — trigger feelings of sadness and loss.

n  Hormonal changes cause the physical symptoms of menopause, but mistaken beliefs about the menopausal transition are partly to blame for the emotional ones. First, menopause doesn't mean the end is near — you've still got as much as half your life to go. Second, menopause will not snuff out your femininity and sexuality. In fact, you may be one of the many women who find it liberating to stop worrying about pregnancy and periods.

n  Most important, even though menopause is not an illness, you shouldn't hesitate to get treatment if you're having severe symptoms. Many treatments are available, from lifestyle adjustments to hormone therapy.

• SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE:---

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE

Menopause is that period of life, in which one has to keep

utmost care for the intake of the food. During this period

 metabolism slows down, Muscle tone decreases, & Fat starts

 getting deposited on Stomach.

  During this period only healthy food can be helpful…..

Eat well: Eat a balanced diet that includes a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains and that limits saturated fats, oils and sugars. Aim for 1,200 to 1,500 milligrams of calcium and 800 international units of vitamin D a day. Ask your doctor about supplements to help you meet these requirements, if necessary.

v  Calcium: -- During Menopause bones tend to become fragile….To avoid this……Have food full of Calcium and Vitamin –D. For e.g. – Skimmed milk, paneer (Cottage cheese), and Dry fruit. Try to include one Banana in the diet. And if possible try to have Chapatti (Indian bread) made of Raagi flour.

v  Fibers: -- Add Whole grains, Vegetables, Fruits in your everyday diet. This will help in keeping away the problem of Constipation. And will also help in keeping Cholesterol and blood sugar under control. During Menopause a lady is prone to cardiac (Heart) problems, so to have cholesterol under control will prove beneficial.

v  Water: -- Drinking more water during menopause helps in hydrating the cells. Skin doesn’t get dry, and drinking water helps in de-toxining the body.

v  Oil: -- Regular everyday diet should contain some amount of Fat. It helps in Hormone level, it also reduces appetite. To absorb or digest some form of vitamin in the body, fat is required. Therefore, instead of clarified butter, rich food in fat, one should prefer olive oil, sun flower oil, mustard oil, etc.

v  Soya bean: -- Soya bean contains fyto estrogen, which helps during menopause. It helps in Hot flushes during menopause. And more over paneer (Cottage cheese) made from Soya bean has high amount of Calcium.

v  Fresh Fruits and Vegetables: -- Different colored fruits have different vitamins. They are full of Minerals, Anti-oxidants, and fibers. You crave for sweet food during menopause, and this causes weight gain. Instead of having sweet food, one should prefer fruits; it will not only help in keeping weight under control but will also give satisfaction. By having ample amount of fresh fruits and vegetables, blood sugar level is under control and arteries also work efficiently.

Yoga During Menopause --

The Eastern traditions view menopause as a time of greater wisdom and deeper insight. It's a natural life transition, one to be embraced and celebrated. And yet, in Western culture, women often enter menopause feeling profoundly uncomfortable.

Women who practice yoga have a different, more positive

experience. Not only do hatha yoga postures and breathing

practices balance the endocrine system, they also serve to

stabilize mood and adjust attitude, as well.

Accept this time in your life as a new beginning

for a wiser, more mature you.

Above suggestions are only for General Guidance…Before

deciding on any form of treatment, talk with your doctor about

your options and the risks and benefits involved with each.

With Warm Regards

Ms Neeta Chaubal

Neeta Holistic Yoga and Reiki Center ( Vadodara,Gujarat, India)

www.neetayogandreiki.blogspot.com