Menopause is not a pleasant experience for most women. Do not wish anyone constant hot flashes, mood swings and palpitations. Fortunately, to some extent, there is something you can do about it: exercise regularly.
The hormones estrogen and progesterone are in balance in your body for years. Around the age of forty, things start to change and your hormones start looking for a new balance. And we note! All sorts of ailments go through and sometimes linger for years. However, exercise can provide relief for those menopausal ailments.
weight
Of course, exercise ensures that we maintain our weight, but during the transition it is a little more complex. Your metabolism changes and your energy needs decrease. This means that you need fewer calories in a day and it is therefore important to adjust your diet. If you keep eating the same amount, your body will suddenly increase calories convert to fat. This is why menopausal women usually gain a few pounds. By exercising you support your muscle building a little and need to make fewer adjustments within your diet. Win, win!
Still some weight? This turns out not to be a problem at all, as belly fat plays an important role. After transition the body can no longer get estrogen from the ovaries, as they have stopped producing it. The body can then produce estrogen from belly fat, which is important for metabolism.
Hormonal balance
Decreased estrogen also impacts bones, muscles and joints, making women more susceptible to injury. You obviously want to avoid this. By exercising you keep your body flexible and as a bonus it also regulates the symptoms of known menopausal ailments. For example, the substances serotonin, endorphins and dopamine are released during exercise. These substances help regulate body temperature and are good for mental health. Say goodbye to a nice sports dress and goodbye to hot flashes and mood swings!
Source: Women’s Health, Nouveau | Image: iStock
