HEALTHY LIVING

6 Reasons To Look Forward To Menopause

Published

1 year ago

October 22, 2023

6 Reasons To Look Forward To Menopause | Fab.ng

Most women don’t eagerly await menopause. For about 4 in 5 women, menopause brings unwanted symptoms like hot flashes, mood swings, and sleep disturbances. It can also affect self-esteem and how women perceive themselves.

However, the perspective on menopausal women is changing for the better. Celebrities are now openly discussing their menopause experiences, which is a significant shift.

Increased awareness of midlife changes is beneficial, especially if it encourages women to seek help for bothersome menopause symptoms. Managing these symptoms with a menopause expert can make a substantial difference and improve this stage of life.

Hormonal changes during menopause can have positive effects on some women, particularly those with certain health conditions like heavy periods. Many women also experience a mental shift during midlife, becoming better at tackling challenges with confidence.

Are you ready to focus on the positives? Here are six reasons to look forward to menopause, which can lead to improvements in your life:

1. No More Periods

Menopause means the end of your menstrual cycle, which many women celebrate. It brings relief from dealing with tampons, pads, leakage, and menstrual cramping. For those with heavy bleeding, it’s especially life-changing.

Not having periods can boost energy since heavy periods can lead to anaemia, making you feel tired and weak. Without periods, you can exercise more and be more physically active.

It’s also a relief after perimenopause, which can bring heavier and irregular periods. Menopause ends the unpredictability of your menstrual cycle, making it a welcome change.

2. Stress Less About PMS

Most women of reproductive age experience premenstrual symptoms, including irritability, fatigue, appetite changes, depression, anxiety, bloating, and breast tenderness.

PMS can make life unpleasant for many women, even if their cycle is regular. Some experience severe PMS, known as PMDD (Premenstrual dysphoric disorder), which can be disabling.

During perimenopause, PMS symptoms may worsen due to fluctuating estrogen levels. However, PMS tends to improve after the menopause transition as hormones stabilize.

3. The End of Menstrual Headaches

Migraine and headaches can be part of premenstrual symptoms and may improve after menopause.

Menstrual migraines share symptoms with other migraines, such as headache pain, light sensitivity, sweating, chills, nausea, and vomiting.

Many women with migraines have noticed a link between their menstrual cycle and migraine attacks.

The Menopausal Rollercoaster by Pastor Yvonne Brooks – Keep The Faith ® The UK's Black and multi-ethnic Christian magazine

Fluctuating estrogen and progesterone levels during a normal menstrual cycle can trigger menstrual migraines. However, after menopause, as hormone levels decrease, the frequency of hormonal headaches often declines.

It’s important to note that if you have migraines due to other factors, menopause may not resolve them.

4. Sex Without Pregnancy Worries

Menopausal women can enjoy sex without concerns about pregnancy, a benefit frequently mentioned by American women of different ethnicities.

This freedom from contraception is appreciated by many women during menopause.

Before discontinuing birth control, ensure you have officially gone through menopause, meaning 12 consecutive months without a period.

During perimenopause, there is still a low risk of pregnancy, so contraception is recommended.

Both the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the North American Menopause Society advise contraceptive use until menopause or age 50–55, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

It’s essential to note that contraception doesn’t provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). STI rates have increased among adults aged 55 and older. Regular STI check-ups and condom use are still necessary to reduce the risk.

5. Uterine Fibroids Shrink

Uterine fibroids affect as many as 80 per cent of women by age 50 and can vary in size.

Severe fibroid symptoms like pain, heavy menstrual bleeding, and bladder pressure may necessitate surgery.

While the cause of uterine fibroids is unclear, female hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone, contribute to their development.

As women enter and pass through menopause, uterine fibroids tend to shrink and become less problematic.

This transition is particularly welcomed by women managing fibroid-related issues, as it provides relief from heavy periods and other symptoms.

6. Increased Confidence and Inner Strength

Women who have experienced over 50 years of life, including relationships, raising children, and careers, often pursue their desires with a newfound sense of self-assuredness.

With age, many women develop a stronger self-awareness and confidence in themselves, making them less tolerant of unnecessary complications.

This increase in self-assuredness and wisdom typically comes with ageing, although some women may attribute it to menopause.

Get more updates here.

Related Topics:health Menopause Periods Reasons To Look Forward To Menopause

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HEALTHY LIVING

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season

Published

4 months ago

December 21, 2024

wpadminee

5 Ways To Stay Healthy This Christmas Season | fab.ng

The Christmas season is full of joy, food, and celebrations, but it can also be a time when health routines fall by the wayside. To stay healthy during the festive period, adopting mindful habits is key.

Here are five actionable strategies to ensure you enjoy the festivities while prioritising your well-being.

1. Make Balanced Food Choices

The holiday season is synonymous with indulgence. While it’s tempting to try everything on the table, opt for a balanced approach. Start meals with proteins and vegetables, which keep you full longer and stabilise your blood sugar.

Enjoy festive treats in moderation, allowing yourself small portions of your favourites without overindulging. By practising mindful eating, you can savour holiday flavours without guilt.

Staying hydrated is equally important. Drink plenty of water to counterbalance rich foods and avoid excessive sugary beverages or cocktails. Alternating alcohol with water is a good way to maintain balance during parties.

2. Prioritise Regular Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to stop during the Christmas season. Incorporate simple physical activities like morning walks, quick home workouts, or even yoga to maintain your energy levels and reduce stress.

A 10–15 minute walk after meals can aid digestion and manage blood sugar levels. Staying active ensures you feel energised and offsets the effects of holiday indulgences.

3. Manage Holiday Stress

The Christmas season can be hectic, with endless to-do lists and social events. Combat stress by practising mindfulness and setting realistic expectations for your time.

Take breaks when needed, meditate, or engage in activities that help you unwind. Organising your tasks and delegating responsibilities can also alleviate pressure.

4. Get Adequate Sleep

Sleep is crucial for overall health, especially during a busy festive period. Poor sleep can lead to increased cravings and mood swings, making it harder to stick to healthy habits. Aim for 7–8 hours of rest each night.

Create a calming bedtime routine by avoiding screens, dimming lights, and reading a book to relax. Staying consistent with your sleep schedule will keep your energy levels high throughout the Christmas season.

5. Plan Ahead for Healthier Choices

With back-to-back events, it’s easy to fall into unhealthy eating habits. Preparing healthy snacks like nuts, boiled eggs, or fruit ensures you have nutritious options on hand.

Planning meals and snacks ahead of time helps avoid impulsive decisions, keeping your health goals on track even during the busiest days.

Enjoy the Festivities While Staying Healthy

By focusing on mindful eating, staying active, managing stress, sleeping well, and planning ahead, you can enjoy the Christmas season while maintaining your health. Balancing fun with wellness ensures you start the new year feeling your best.

If you found this article helpful, read more here.

FOOD

5 Health Benefits Of Cooking With Garlic

Published

4 months ago

December 7, 2024

wpadminee

5 Health Benefits of Cooking With Garlic | fab.ng

Garlic is more than just a flavour enhancer; it offers numerous health benefits that have been celebrated for centuries. Incorporating garlic into your meals not only enriches the taste but also boosts your overall well-being.

Let’s explore five key health benefits of garlic, emphasising why this simple ingredient deserves a spot in your kitchen.

1. Boosts Heart Health

Garlic is renowned for its heart-protective properties. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces cholesterol levels, which are crucial factors in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Allicin, a compound found in garlic, relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing the risk of heart disease.

Regular consumption of garlic may also prevent artery hardening, a condition known as atherosclerosis. Clearly, one of the primary health benefits of garlic is its contribution to a healthy heart.

2. Strengthens the Immune System

Garlic acts as a powerful immune booster. Its antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties help the body fend off infections. Rich in antioxidants, garlic combats free radicals that can damage cells and contribute to illness.

Cooking with garlic regularly can support your immune system, making it more resilient against common colds and flu. This vital health benefit of garlic makes it a natural defence mechanism.

3. Improves Digestive Health

Garlic promotes healthy digestion by stimulating the production of digestive enzymes. Its antimicrobial properties can help balance gut flora, reducing harmful bacteria and promoting beneficial ones.

Additionally, garlic may reduce inflammation in the gut, alleviating symptoms of conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Including garlic in your diet can improve overall digestive function, emphasising another essential health benefit of garlic.

4. Enhances Bone Health

Surprisingly, garlic may also support strong bones. It contains minerals like calcium, manganese, and selenium, which are vital for bone density and strength.

Some studies suggest that garlic consumption can increase estrogen levels in women, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.

This lesser-known health benefit of garlic highlights its role beyond the kitchen, contributing to long-term skeletal health.

5. Supports Detoxification

Garlic aids the body’s natural detoxification process by activating liver enzymes that help eliminate toxins. Its sulfur compounds enhance liver function, enabling the body to flush out heavy metals and harmful substances more efficiently.

Regularly cooking with garlic can provide a natural cleanse, supporting overall vitality. This detoxifying health benefit of garlic underscores its importance for maintaining internal balance.

Incorporating Garlic into Your Diet

Maximise these health benefits by adding garlic to soups, stir-fries, and sauces. Crush or chop it and let it sit for a few minutes before cooking to enhance its beneficial compounds.

Remember, the health benefits of garlic are most potent when it’s used fresh and minimally cooked.

Cooking with garlic not only elevates your culinary creations but also offers significant health advantages. Embrace this versatile ingredient and enjoy the multiple health benefits of garlic with every meal.

Would you like more articles or additional tips? Check here.

HEALTHY LIVING

How To Stay Healthy While Boosting Productivity

Published

5 months ago

November 30, 2024

wpadminee

Balancing health and productivity is essential for personal well-being and professional success. Integrating healthy habits into your daily routine enhances focus, reduces stress, and increases overall efficiency.

Here’s how you can maintain good health while staying productive:

1. Prioritise Physical Health

Exercise Regularly: Physical activity enhances both physical health and mental clarity. Simple practices like taking short walks during breaks or stretching between tasks improve circulation and energy levels.

Maintain Good Nutrition: Eating balanced meals fuels your body and brain. Choose healthy snacks and stay hydrated throughout the day to maintain consistent energy levels.

Sleep Well: Adequate sleep (7-9 hours) improves memory, focus, and mood, contributing to higher productivity. Establish a consistent bedtime routine to ensure restful sleep.

2. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Time

Identify peak productivity periods in your day. Allocate complex or creative tasks to those high-energy times, and save routine work for low-energy periods. This practice optimises your natural rhythms for maximum efficiency.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Stress Management

Take Short Breaks: Regular breaks prevent burnout and boost concentration. Even a five-minute pause every hour can refresh your mind.

Mindful Practices: Meditation or deep-breathing exercises reduce stress and improve focus. Incorporating these into your daily routine fosters mental clarity and emotional resilience.

4. Create a Healthy Work Environment

Ergonomic Workspace: Arrange your workspace to support good posture and reduce strain. Use ergonomic furniture and ensure proper lighting to prevent fatigue.

Limit Distractions: Reduce noise and digital interruptions to stay focused. Tools like “Do Not Disturb” settings and noise-cancelling headphones can help create a conducive work atmosphere.

5. Foster Mental Health

Set Boundaries: Separate work from personal time. Avoid checking work emails after hours to maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Stay Connected: Engage in positive social interactions at work. A supportive environment enhances motivation and reduces feelings of isolation.

6. Optimise Productivity Techniques

Batch Tasks: Group similar activities together to avoid frequent context-switching, which drains mental energy. This method enhances focus and efficiency.

Use To-Do Lists: Organise tasks by priority. Focus on completing high-value activities first to maximise your productivity.

By integrating these health-focused strategies into your daily routine, you can maintain physical well-being, reduce stress, and improve productivity, creating a sustainable path to professional success and personal fulfilment.