Menopause - Nutritional facts

| by Dr Ainiyah MD | May 28, 2007
Menopause is a tough transition for many women. It usually begins to occur in late middle age when the efficiency of the ovaries begins to decline. Problems associated with the related estrogen deficiency that occur may include arteriosclerosis, osteoporosis, decreased skin elasticity and changes in the sympathetic nervous system that result in hot flushes. However, by including the following superfoods in your everyday diet, symptoms can be alleviated, memory power maintained, and osteoporosis prevented.

Tofu is an excellent protein alternative for meat and it can be very helpful in lowering your cholesterol and preventing heart disease. Tofu and other soy products may also help lessen the side effects of menopause, such as hot flushes. Recent studies have shown that fiber can help reduce your risk of colon and other types of cancer, as well as diverticulosis. Women need approximately 30 grams of fiber each day. Navy beans come in at 19 grams, so they're a wonderful choice. Use them in your chili or soups, or try them for a nutritious side dish instead of the usual pasta or rice.

As we grow older, we may find that our memory begins to slip a bit, and we find ourselves forgetting things. By eating blueberries, we might actually be able to curb that short-term memory loss. Toss them on top of some plain yogurt for a great breakfast or snack choice. Yogurt, which is loaded with calcium, can help prevent osteoporosis. As an added bonus, it can help strengthen your immunity and support your weight loss efforts. Choose yogurts that contain high amounts of good bacteria such as acidophilus, which can also help prevent yeast and urinary tract infections.

Avocados are high in antioxidants such as vitamin E, which is important element to protecting both your vision and skin. They also contain monosaturated fats, which have been shown to improve the condition of hair and skin, which can suffer when a woman goes through menopause. Chunk up a nice ripe avocado for a delicious guacamole dip, or even try them on your sandwich with a tomato.

Try also to avoid drinking a large amount of caffeinated drinks each day, and boost your body's vitamin C absorption by teaming an orange with an iron-rich food like whole-grain oatmeal.

Including these superfoods in your diet can help to alleviate symptoms associated with menopause, maintain your memory power, and prevent osteoporosis. These superfoods are delicious to eat, easy to prepare, and super-good for you!

Navy beans are loaded with fiber, which can help reduce your risk of color and other forms of cancer, as well as relieve the symptoms associated with diverticulosis. Women need 30 grams of fiber each day, so include them in your favorite chili recipe, or try them as a side dish alternative to pasta or rice.

Packed with calcium, yogurt can help prevent osteoporosis. It has also been shown to boost your immunity and help with weight management. Additionally, yogurt contains high amounts of good bacteria such as acidophilus, which helps to prevent yeast infections and urinary tract infections. It also contains protein, which may help your body battle the fatigue and weariness that follows a hot flush.

As we age, we sometimes find ourselves forgetting things or feeling as if we're in a fog. If you find this to be the case, grab for the blueberries the next time you're shopping for groceries. Recent studies show they may actually help with short-term memory loss. They're also loaded with antioxidants. Pair them with some low-fat plain yogurt for a top-notch way to protect both your brain and your bones.

And as always, it's important to make low-fat and low-sodium choices when menu planning. These do nothing to help alleviate the symptoms brought on by menopause, and are unhealthy options at any age, but especially as we grow older. Avoid smoking or alcohol, and get plenty of rest, and you'll soon find your menopause symptoms are easily managed.More info visit my site at
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