This continuation of “Natural Remedies for Menopause” will offer suggestions for natural lifestyle approaches for memory problems, weight gain, high cholesterol and vaginal symptoms. Women who want to avoid using estrogen therapy to treat their menopause symptoms do have choices that can be very effective.
SAFETY NOTE ABOUT NATURAL REMEDIES:
Always remember that natural does not mean safe. Many herbal, plant and dietary supplements interact with prescription medications or may have a negative impact on chronic medical conditions. Before deciding to use alternative and complementary remedies for your menopause symptoms, check with your medical provider and read up on possible side effects and cautions for any remedy you are considering. Natural approaches are not risk-free, and the more you know, the better you can choose treatments that will keep you safe and well.Memory Problems
Nothing is more frustrating than trying to recall a word or name, having it on the tip of your tongue, but not being close enough to come out with it. Forgetting where the car keys are or where you put your glasses can also drive you crazy as you get ready to leave the house. Sound familiar? Many women begin to notice memory glitches as they get in to perimenopause. It may be just the natural aging process, but there are things you can do to maintain your memory as you get older.
- Green Tea
Drinking green tea has been associated with many health benefits, including boosting the immune system and preventing cancer. Research is now beginning to link green tea with preventing enzyme activity that damages memory. It has few side effects and is readily available.
- Adequate sleep
In order to process memory tasks, your brain needs to have adequate sleep. Research seems to point to both short naps and longer naps to aid in memory function. If you can’t grab a cat nap during the day, though, pay special attention to getting enough nighttime sleep for memory problems.
- Stress Management
Stress is a major memory buster. If you are having trouble concentrating or remembering everyday things, pay attention to your stress level. Research has confirmed that even short-term stress can impact learning and memory. The menopause transition is at a time of life that may present major challenges, divorce, illness, parenting teenagers and aging parents to name a few. Taking care of yourself and reducing the stress in your life is a survival skill. Memory problems may be an early red flag that your stress level is climbing.
Weight Gain
Weight gain is also a frustration for women older than forty. The exact mechanism of estrogen’s role in metabolism is not clear. What is clear, though, is that many women who've never previously struggled to maintain a healthy weight, begin to have trouble during and after menopause. While there are no proven herbal preparations for weight loss, there are lifestyle and diet changes that can help you naturally curb the tendency to put on weight.
- Stress management
Stress, and more specifically producing the stress hormone cortisol, can interfere with your body’s ability to maintain weight. Keeping cortisol levels low will make it easier for your body to manage calories and fat metabolism.
- Diet musts
The menopause transition is a great time to take a look at your diet and make changes that will serve you through the rest of your life. As your metabolism slows and you begin to handle calories differently, you can revise your thinking to include a proper menopause diet that will set the stage for a healthy postmenopause.
- Exercise
Everyone knows that exercise is good for you. As you get in to menopause, though, it becomes an essential part of your healthy life plan. Weight loss, of course, requires higher levels of activity. Since exercise also aids memory, mood and bone health, however, it is truly an all-purpose approach to menopause wellness. Exercise is the one factor that can maximize your ability to manage your weight.
- Sleep
You may think that sleep would hamper your weight loss efforts, but actually, the opposite is true. If you are not getting enough sleep, it actually raises your risk of obesity. Adequate sleep resets your body and lets it recover from the stresses of your day. Your body works more efficiently in every way if you are getting the rest you need.
Learn about natural remedies for high cholesterol and vaginal symptoms on Page 2.
