How to manage the symptoms of menopause

Menopause is often associated with troublesome symptoms like hot flashes and mood swings, yet even more serious health issues may be part of this life stage, such as heart disease.

“Women experience a number of changes during menopause due to shifting hormones and lower levels of oestrogen. Hot flashes, night sweats and fatigue can interfere with everyday activities. These symptoms can be severe and can occur for several years as the body adjusts to the reduced level of oestrogen. We know that fluctuating hormones can also contribute to increased risk of heart disease and it’s important to take steps to manage that risk during menopause,” said renowned natural health physician and author, Dr Fred Pescatore. There are several ways for women to manage menopause symptoms and heart health risks, said Dr Pescatore.

Start with Your Diet
A healthy lifestyle typically starts with a nutritious diet and this becomes even more important during menopause. “For women experiencing menopause symptoms, I recommend adopting a diet filled with more vegetables, lean protein, nuts, and seeds to support a healthier lifestyle and a healthier heart,” said Dr Pescatore.

Stick with an Exercise Routine
One of the best things you can do to help your body and mind adjust to shifting hormone levels during menopause is to maintain an active lifestyle. “Just 30 minutes of cardio each day can really make a difference. Get moving. Try taking a brisk walk or a bike ride. You can even do things in your own home, like jumping jacks,” said Dr Pescatore.

Add a Supplement
A new peer-reviewed clinical study shows that daily supplementation with the super-antioxidant, can help reduce the symptoms of menopause and the related heart disease risk factors. “This study shows the effectiveness of Pycnogenol in alleviating perimenopause symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats and reducing key cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure,” said Dr Pescatore.