Menopause

There was a time when the mere mention of the word “menopause” conjured up images of perpetual hot flashes, wild mood swings and hair sprouting from your chin. Menopause, which is 12 consecutive months without a period, is considered to be a natural and gradual part of the aging journey, but the trip isn’t always a pleasant one.

Over 70 percent of women in Western societies experience the downside of menopause, which include night sweats, hair loss, irregular periods and decreased sex drives. While every woman is different, factors such as stress, a poor diet, hectic lifestyle and individual genetics can dictate how menopause will affect you.

The average age that women start experiencing menopause around 50, although some as young as 40 may have symptoms.

Menopause Symptoms – Hot Flashes

Hot flashes - The hallmark of menopause, hot flashes are characterized by sweating, nausea, dizziness, even feeling like you’re suffocating. You might be completely drenched or merely moist. When it’s all over, you’ll probably feel a little on the chilly side. The drop of estrogen that usually accompanies menopause, which can incorrectly signal the brain that the body is overheated, is responsible for hot flashes. Your brain then goes into overdrive and sends out an alert to the body. In response, your heart beats faster, more blood circulates and you sweat more, which cools you down at the wrong time. How long a hot flash lasts can vary, anywhere from a few minutes to an hour. Hot flashes typically occur between 6 to 8 AM and 8-10 PM.

Menopause Symptoms – Sugar Cravings

Sugar Cravings – During menopause, your hormones are like a roller coaster — one minute they’re up, the next they’re down, with some twists and turns in between. This ride can leave you craving sugar. Refined sugars, like the ones found in the cakes and pastries we love, can cause you to gain weight. Sugar also ages the body and can hamper the body’s ability to absorb calcium, an important vitamin for women. On top of that, an overload of sugar in your system can impact your sex life: too much sugar and you might find yourself with repeat urinary tract and vaginal infections. Stocking up on protein can cut those cravings. Incorporate lean meats and fishes into your diet along with fresh vegetables. However, if you find yourself jonesing for some sugar, fresh and dried fruits can quell your cravings even as they fill you up with fiber. If you absolutely must have sugar, try nibbling on a small piece of dark chocolate, which is good for the heart.

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