Top 5 Life Hacks of Dealing with the Symptoms of Menopause

Published on: 28 March 2017 Last Updated on: 09 August 2019
Symptoms of Menopause

It is every woman’s dream to dwell in her youthful years forever. Unfortunately, life is a wheel that keeps turning and change is inevitable. Just because you’re now entering the menopause stage doesn’t mean that your life is over. There always is a perk to every stage of life and focusing on the negatives only blurs your sight of the good things. Truth be said, menopause strings along troublesome effects. It may seem like the end of the world when you’re experiencing hot flashes or mood swings. However, you can stay ahead of the game the natural way.

1. Hot Flashes

This is the most complained about symptom in regards to menopause. The random changes from sweaty to chilly temperatures are disturbing. However, just because it’s normal doesn’t mean that you should sit around waiting for it to disrupt your life. You can gain control over it ahead of time by avoiding situations such as; hot tubs, hot drinks, spicy foods, alcohol, stress, hot showers, intense exercise, white sugar, caffeine and hot weather.

Although there aren’t many studies backing this up, soy products are also thought to help control the irritating hot flashes. In addition to these, you may also want to give Black Cohosh a try. These are available as health supplements in health stores. Black Cohosh is believed to regulate night sweats, hot flashes, and mood changes.

2. Unreliable Mood Changes

Our bodies have a mind of their own and we sometimes can’t control what happens whether we like it or not. Another con symptom to expect during menopause is unstable mood swings. Just because you can’t get hold of the burning urge to sob five minutes after sharing a hearty laughter with your friends doesn’t mean that you should settle for it. There is scientific evidence proving that Omega 3 Fatty Acids supplements are highly effective in the treatment of menopause-related mental health problems. These include distress and mild depression. For better results, you may need to pair this up with exercise, ample rest and a healthy diet.

3. Vaginal Dryness

Menopause does not necessarily mean the end of a healthy sex life. You may notice increased bouts of vaginal dryness during intercourse but nothing that a good tube of lube won’t fix. Since there are many products out in the market, you may want to consult your doctor before settling for a particular one. There are special lubricating gels that are specially designed for menopausal women hence feel a bit more comfortable for you.

4. Weight Gain

Noticed the numbers going up on your scale? Well, this is common during menopause. Unlike the common teachings that fats are to be avoided to prevent weight gain, you should actually incorporate then in your diet now. Yes, they may have more calories than proteins and carbs. However, fats are vital for hormone production, increased metabolism and lowering inflammation levels which are all key to effective weight loss. Always go for healthy fats such as unrefined oils which are rich in Vitamin E. This is effective in regulating estrogen production. You may also want to invest in flaxseed oil, coconut oil, palm oil, and extra-virgin olive oil. You may also find healthy oils in coconut milk, nuts, avocado, wild seafood, and seeds. You may be pardoned for considering a laxative for weight loss. However, this is highly discouraged as it only leads to water loss which is quickly gained back thereafter. Stick to healthy weight loss choices.

5. Disturbed Sleep

Are the tossing and turning driving you nuts? Worry not, there’s a natural curb to it. The first step is getting your sleep routines in check. Go to bed at a particular time and stay there whether you’re sleepy or not. With time, your body will sense bedtime ahead and start the shutting down process. You will notice yourself feeling drowsy whenever it’s close to your bedtime. Avoid vigorous activities such as workouts and keep off caffeinated drinks in the afternoon. Sipping on some warm milk and herbal drinks may help you sleep better. Move the television, laptop, and phone from your bedroom as they are easy distractions.

Menopause may be a challenging stage of life but it doesn’t last forever. Stick to these routines even when you wish they results would kick in much faster. Avoid harmful practices such as consuming a laxative for weight loss in the attempt of speeding up the results. This will only lead to water loss which is quickly gained back thereafter. Besides this, laxatives may lead to internal damage which is definitely not worth it. There are a lot of benefits to reap from nature if you only give it a chance.

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Nerves vs. Excitement: How To Manage Nerves And Perform At Your Best

Anyone who has ever been called to come and speak or perform in front of a public gathering knows the importance of holding nerves. From the time we are in school, some of us have dreaded raising our hands and speaking out the right answer even though we know what we are. We have looked at astonishment at so-called confident individuals and wondered what makes them do things that we cannot. Common terms like ‘performance anxiety, ‘stage fright’, ‘nervousness’, etc. are all common emotions and feelings that we harbor. The key is- how do we overcome the same? In this resource article, we are going to help a lot of people come to grips with their nerves. If you are someone who dreads talking in front of a crowd, we recommend that you stick around till the end of the article. Being ‘Nervous’ Versus Being ‘Excited’- How a Change in Terms Can Help: ‘I am too nervous; I can’t go out there and speak’! 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Pregnancy Foods

The Top 10 Best Foods to Eat in Early Pregnancy

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Senior Friendly Exercise Routines

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Aging is a natural part of life, and staying active is essential for seniors to maintain a high quality of life. Many older adults face challenges when it comes to exercising, from chronic health conditions to a lack of knowledge on where to start. We understand the unique needs, focusing on exercises that improve balance while minimizing the risk of injury. Whether you're a senior looking to stay fit or a caregiver seeking valuable insights, this comprehensive guide is for you. This comprehensive guide explores the many benefits of exercise. It also offers guidance on safe and effective workout plans to individuals. This provides tips for making physical activity an enjoyable and sustainable part of your life. Why Exercise Is Essential For Seniors? Regular exercise provides a multitude of physical and mental benefits that enable seniors to stay active and engaged. 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Physical activity provides tangible benefits for both physical and mental well-being in aging individuals but also highlights the significance of consulting healthcare professionals, especially those specializing in adult primary care. Yet, to unlock these benefits, seniors must choose activities suited to their needs and abilities. Tailoring Exercise to Senior Abilities  When designing exercise plans for seniors, several important factors are to consider: Health Conditions: Seniors often have chronic conditions like arthritis, osteoporosis, and heart disease. Consult a doctor about safe activities and modifications. Physical Capabilities: Assess factors like bone/joint health, balance, mobility, strength, and endurance. Choose exercises that target any limitations. Interests And Goals: Focus on exercises the senior enjoys. This helps them set realistic health goals like building strength or improving balance. Accessibility: Impact on exercise includes location, financial constraints, and transportation. Find low-cost and convenient options like at-home routines. Getting input from healthcare providers, trainers, and the seniors themselves ensures regimens are safe, effective, and sustainable. Exercise programs, such as the ems suits, should evolve over time to match seniors’ changing capabilities and fitness levels. Best Exercises For Seniors Any physical activity has its benefits. Certain types of exercise lend themselves particularly well to seniors' abilities. Incorporating a mix provides whole-body health improvements. Aerobic Exercise  Engaging in low-impact aerobic activities can help improve cardiovascular health. Options include: Walking: A simple, accessible exercise that improves endurance. Swimming: Helps build strength and cardiovascular fitness without stress on joints. Chair Aerobics: Seated, low-impact movement to upbeat music. Tai Chi: Lowers blood pressure while working with balance and flexibility.  Aim to achieve at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, such as brisk walking. Strength Training   Working major muscle groups combats age-related loss of muscle mass. Try: Body weight exercises: Squats, planks, and lunges use one's weight as resistance. Resistance bands/tubing: Provides flexible resistance strength training. Weight machines: Begin with low weight and high repetition. Functional fitness: Use daily activities like standing from a chair, and carrying groceries. Aim to have 8-12 strength sessions spread over 2 or more days per week. Flexibility Exercises  Stretching, yoga, and Pilates keep muscles and joints limber. Benefits include: Improved range of motion and posture Reduced risk of injury  Increased balance and stability Aim to stretch major muscle groups 2-3 days per week. Balance Exercises Balance tends to decline with age, leading to falls. Specific activities to improve balance include: Tai Chi Standing heel/toe raises Walking heel-to-toe in a straight line Standing on one foot To improve balance, perform balance exercises at least 3 days per week, with each session lasting at least 15 minutes. Creating an Effective Senior Exercise Routine When designing a holistic fitness regimen, keep the FITT principle in mind: Frequency: Aim for at least 150 minutes per week of moderate exercise. Include at least 2 days of strength training. Intensity: Moderate intensity is the safest and most effective for seniors. Use the “talk test” to avoid overexertion.  Time: Start with 5-10 minute sessions and work up to 30 minute workouts. Type: Combine aerobic, strength, balance, and flexibility training for fitness.  Other tips for creating an effective senior exercise routine: Get guidance from a physical therapist or certified trainer. Focus on proper form and technique over speed. Warm up and cool down before and after exercising. Include rest days for recovery and to prevent overtraining. Track progress through activity journals or fitness trackers. Stay hydrated and listen to your body's limits. Tailor exercise routines to individual fitness levels, goals, and medical needs. The key is starting slow and building up over time. Patience and consistency are vital. Exercise Safety Tips for Seniors  While physical activity is beneficial for older adults, follow these precautions to prevent risk: Consult your doctor, especially if you have chronic health conditions. Warm up with 5-10 minutes of light activity to prepare muscles and joints. Use proper form to avoid straining muscles or joints. Start to work with a trainer. Increase intensity over weeks and months to avoid overexertion. Listen to warning signs like chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath and stop activity if they occur. Wear supportive footwear with good traction to prevent falls. Stay hydrated and avoid exercise during extreme heat. Cool down with gentler activity after workouts to ease muscles. Seniors should seek immediate medical attention if they experience symptoms like chest tightness or severe pain during or after exercising. Starting slow and maintaining safe habits are key. Making Exercise a Lifelong Habit To sustain motivation and make working out a regular lifelong habit, seniors can: Join community fitness classes designed for older adults to meet peers and enjoy group energy. Find an exercise buddy for mutual support and accountability. Incorporate activity into daily routines like housework or gardening. Track progress with a journal, app, or wearable device to stay motivated. Focus on enjoyment first by choosing activities you find fun and energizing. Listen to your body and be flexible about modifying plans when needed. Reward small wins and don't dwell on temporary setbacks. Progress takes patience. Staying active provides lifelong benefits for seniors' health, independence, and enjoyment of life. Following the guidance in this ultimate guide can help older adults start and sustain customized exercise routines tailored to their unique needs and abilities. The key is taking the first step! FAQs:- 1. How can seniors exercise if they have chronic pain or mobility issues? Ans: Consult a physical therapist to design a program suited to your health conditions. Low-impact activities like water aerobics, chair yoga, walking, or Tai Chi. This can help improve strength and mobility without aggravating pain. 2. What home exercises should seniors do if they can't get to a gym?  Ans: Simple strength exercises like squats or planks using your body weight are very effective. For staying active, consider chair aerobics, stretching routines, jogging in place, or engaging in activities like gardening and household chores. These can be effective ways to incorporate movement into your routine. 3. How long does it take to see the benefits of a senior exercise routine? Ans: While some benefits, like better sleep or mood, can occur immediately. Research shows it takes about 6-8 weeks to begin noticing significant improvements in strength, balance, and cardiovascular health. Stick with the regimen to unlock the full benefits. Conclusion: And there you have it – a comprehensive guide to senior-friendly exercise routines, your ultimate key to unlocking a healthier and more vibrant life. Staying active isn't just a phase – it's a lifelong habit. Join community classes, find an exercise buddy, and make it a part of your daily routine. Listen to your body, enjoy the journey, and celebrate small victories. Remember, this guide is your companion on the path to a healthier and more vibrant you. Take that first step, stay consistent, and relish the lifelong benefits that exercise brings. Here's to a future filled with strength, balance, and joy! 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