6 healthy foods to manage menopause symptoms

6 healthy foods to manage menopause symptoms

Menopause is a transitional stage that marks the end of a woman’s reproductive years. During this phase, the body undergoes many changes. Accordingly, women feel symptoms such as wild hormonal fluctuations, anxiety, and increased body heat during menopause. Certain foods like processed meat, spicy meals, and sodium-rich items tend to trigger these symptoms easily. However, some other foods can help reduce their severity significantly. Some healthy foods to manage menopause symptoms are listed below.

Yogurt
One of the hormones that fluctuate most during the menopausal stage is estrogen. Estrogen levels undergo a major decline during this phase. An estrogen deficiency can harm bone health and vital bodily functions among women. Reduced bone density can cause health conditions like osteoporosis.

To prevent that, women need to eat calcium in high quantities. Low-fat dairy foods such as yogurt and fatty fish can restore the body’s calcium levels. One can choose plain yogurt with little or no added sugar to manage menopause symptoms. For vegetarians, various plant-based yogurts are also available.

Oatmeal
Like calcium, fiber is important to reduce cholesterol, keep blood sugar levels in check, and prevent constipation. Therefore, fiber-rich grains, vegetables, and fruits are essential to a woman’s daily meals during the menopausal transition. Oatmeal and brown rice pasta are two fiber-rich foods that can replace processed meats or items with refined carbohydrates (pasta and white bread).

An added advantage of eating oatmeal is that it makes a person feel full after eating a decent portion. It prevents women from potentially overeating and having problems such as cholesterol increase or accumulating unhealthy body mass during menopause. Furthermore, oatmeal also helps to boost one’s energy levels during this phase.

Broccoli
Green leafy vegetables have innumerable health benefits, so they almost always make their way into “best foods” lists. Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable with various health benefits, especially for menopausal women. Broccoli, like yogurt, enhances estrogen levels in women. It strengthens the bones and keeps health conditions like breast cancer at bay.

Also, as with yogurt and oatmeal, broccoli is rich in calcium and fiber, making broccoli beneficial for menopausal women in many ways.

Salmon
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Both these nutrients have massive health benefits. Omega-3 fatty acids have been found to reduce night sweats, a common menopausal reaction, and the risk of breast cancer. On the other hand, vitamin D keeps the bones healthy, keeps breast cancer at bay, and prevents other chronic health conditions brought about by menopause in women.

Strawberries
Berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries, are inherently helpful for regulating menopausal symptoms due to their natural sweetness and anti-inflammatory properties. The most significant benefits of berries are their ability to reduce the risk of heart disease during menopause and undesirable body mass accumulation.

Additionally, berries are delicious to eat as a side dish or snack any time during the day. Strawberries, in particular, can keep a woman’s skin glowing and healthy during menopause.

Eggs
Eggs are excellent sources of vitamin D, iron, and proteins. Vitamin D and iron deficiency are common among menopausal women; therefore, eating eggs will hugely benefit during this phase. Furthermore, the protein content of eggs helps lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases, developing unhealthy BMI, and reducing cholesterol levels among women during this phase.

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Understanding arthritis – A common joint condition

The joints are constantly working while we move our limbs, so, understandably, people may develop certain joint conditions that cause pain and compromise mobility, especially with age. One of the common joint conditions is arthritis, which leads to joint inflammation and mild to severe pain. While there are several types of arthritis, the two most common types are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Stages Rheumatoid arthritis has four stages: Stage 1: At this stage, inflammation occurs inside the joints, and swelling, stiffness, and joint pain are the common symptoms. Stage 2: The inflammation of the joint lining, synovium, aggravates at this stage and results in cartilage damage. The affected joints’ range of motion is also compromised, causing pain and discomfort. Stage 3: At this stage, the severity of the joint condition increases, and it leads to bone damage. This results in more pain, loss of mobility, and weakness of muscles. The bones rubbing against each other can cause bone deformity as well. Stage 4: This is the final stage where the joints stop functioning completely. It leads to more pain, stiffness, and swelling, and the bones may even fuse, which is known as ankylosis. Osteoarthritis also has four stages of progression: Stage 1: Wear and tear may affect the knee joints, and minor spur growths on the affected bone can also be seen, but the condition does not cause too much pain at this stage. Stage 2: The bone spur growths increase and cause pain, and the knee joints become stiffer. Stage 3: This stage is characterized by joint inflammation leading to increased pain and stiffness. Walking can also cause popping sounds in the joints. Stage 4: The space between the bones in the joints becomes very narrow, causing the cartilage to wear down. Also, a chronic inflammatory response caused by the breakdown of cartilage aggravates discomfort and pain. Diagnosis of arthritis These joint conditions can be diagnosed using several tests. A physical examination reveals whether a patient has red, warm, and tender joints, and this test also helps examine the fluid around the joints. A rheumatologist can analyze the level of inflammation in the joints to determine the type of arthritis an individual is affected with. Also, blood tests are undertaken to check for antibodies like anti-CCP, rheumatoid factor, and antinuclear antibody. In addition, X-ray, CT scans, and MRI are also performed to check the condition of the cartilage and bones. Prevention of arthritis A family history of joint conditions like arthritis or aging can increase one’s risk of developing arthritis, but making certain lifestyle changes can also help lower the chances of developing the condition. To start with, one should include more foods with omega-3 fatty acids in their diet as these healthy fats are anti-inflammatory. One should also exercise regularly, keep their weight under check, reduce stress on their joints, and try to avoid injuries. Also, if one notices any symptoms of arthritis, they should consult a doctor immediately as early diagnosis goes a long way in managing the condition effectively through timely treatment.

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7 best foods for a healthy and glowing skin

You must eat a healthy and balanced meal because it is essential for overall health. However, did you know that certain foods can also help to promote healthy and glowing skin? There is no denying that skincare products and routines can help improve your skin's appearance. But, yet again, you must try to bring out your inner radiance by incorporating some healthy habits. So, let us discuss some must-have foods for healthy skin. Avocado to make you glow Avocado is a rich source of healthy fats that can help maintain supple and smooth skin. It is also rich in antioxidants, including vitamin E, which can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Moreover, the high vitamin C levels in avocados can help to boost collagen production, which is beneficial in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Berries for all skin problems Blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries consist of antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. These berries also contain vitamin C, which helps boost collagen production and reduces the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Moreover, they are low in sugar and help prevent breakouts and acne. Fatty fish for your skin Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel are rich in omega-3 fatty acids essential for maintaining healthy skin. Did you know that Omega-3s assist in keeping the skin hydrated and can also help to reduce inflammation? Moreover, they can help protect the skin from UV damage and premature aging signs. Green tea for healthy aging Green tea has antioxidants that can help to protect the skin from damage and promote healthy aging. It is a rich source of polyphenols, which can help reduce inflammation and prevent collagen breakdown. Moreover, green tea contains caffeine, reducing puffiness and dark circles around the eyes. Leafy greens for skin protection Leafy greens like spinach and kale contain vitamins and minerals essential for healthy skin. They are a primary source of vitamin C and boost collagen production while preventing skin damage. Moreover, they are rich in vitamin A, which helps reduce oil production and prevent clogged pores. Nuts and seeds for that radiance Nuts and seeds fall under the category of foods for healthy skin because they contain essential vitamins and minerals that help you maintain them. For example, almonds are a rich source of vitamin E and help protect the skin from sun damage. On the other hand, pumpkin seeds are a great source of zinc and help reduce inflammation and promote healthy skin. Sweet potatoes for healthy skin Sweet potatoes are a great source of beta-carotene. For the unversed, it is a precursor of Vitamin A that assists in maintaining healthy skin. It helps to prevent clogged pores and can also help to reduce oil production. Moreover, beta-carotene is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect the skin from damage caused by free radicals. Bottom line Did you know that dehydration can cause skin dullness and dryness? So, make sure to consume at least eight glasses of water regularly. Try to limit sugary or processed foods that can help promote healthy skin. It will further help you prevent breakouts and inflammation. If you want to follow a healthy and balanced meal plan, you must include a variety of nutrient-rich foods to promote healthy and glowing skin.

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