Latest news with #Perimenopause
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6 days ago
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Perimenopause Affects Every Major Organ In Your Body. Doctors Reveal What's Really Happening And How To Stay Healthy.
Welcome to the Perimenopause Playbook—your guide to navigating the most overlooked and misunderstood phase of the menopausal transition. Read the rest of the stories, from how to get a diagnosis to treatment options to where to actually find good care, here. The hormonal changes we experience starting in perimenopause affect every major organ system in our body. Understanding these biological changes isn't just important for managing symptoms—it's critical for your long-term health. We enlisted Rajita Patil, MD, MSCP, and director of the UCLA Comprehensive Menopause Program, to share how these changes impact our health, plus tips to extend your healthspan in this next phase of life. Bone Health Estrogen plays a protective role in bone health. A loss of estrogen is associated with a decline in bone mineral density, which can increase the risk of osteoporosis (when bones become weak and brittle) and fractures. The most rapid bone loss typically begins in late perimenopause, about two years before the final menstrual period, and persists for four to five years after. Tip: Strength train and engage in weight-bearing exercises at least three days per week; eat foods rich in calcium (at least 1200 mg/day) and Vitamin D (at least 800 IU per day), and supplement when necessary; avoid smoking and limit alcohol intake. Consider hormone therapy, which has been shown to decrease the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. Muscle Mass Declining levels of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone in menopause are associated with sarcopenia—a loss of muscle mass and strength. Tip: Some studies show that prolonged use of hormone therapy (estrogen and progesterone) is associated with higher muscle mass and lower prevalence of sarcopenia, but these effects aren't consistently observed across all populations or study designs. See the tips under 'Bone Health' to preserve muscle mass, plus make sure to eat a gram of protein per ideal weight daily. Heart Health Low estrogen levels are linked to an increase in cardiovascular risk in women, particularly after menopause. This accelerates cardiovascular disease (CVD) by promoting negative effects on cholesterol, body fat distribution (central deposition which is linked to insulin resistance), and blood pressure. Interestingly, low testosterone is associated with a more favorable cardiovascular risk profile. Tip: Hormone therapy is NOT recommended for CVD prevention in postmenopausal women. It can, however, be beneficial for perimenopausal women who are younger and farther from this timeframe. Additionally, eliminate smoking; prioritize regular physical activity (at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise); eat a heart-healthy diet, like the Mediterranean diet; do regular screenings to monitor blood pressure, cholesterol, and glucose; minimize stress; address mood changes; and aim for good quality and duration of sleep. Mental Health During the menopause transition, there's a well-documented increase in the risk of new onset depressive, anxiety symptoms, and exacerbation of pre-existing mood disorders due to fluctuations in estrogen and, to a lesser extent, progesterone. Tip: Studies show that transdermal estradiol (with or without intermittent micronized progesterone) is effective in preventing and treating depressive symptoms in perimenopausal women. Consider hormone therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), or SSRI/SNRI for new onset mood changes. It's just as important to focus on physical activity and exercise; optimize sleep; reduce stress; adhere to lifestyle behaviors (proper diet, regular social engagement; avoid smoking and substance use). Brain Health Fluctuations or declines in estrogen cause altered neural connectivity and decreased activation of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex—regions that are critical for memory and attention. While most of the time the brain fog is transient and people will not develop Alzheimer's Disease, for some there is progressive long-term neurodegenerative changes that put them at higher risk for development of cognitive impairment and, eventually, Alzheimer's Disease. Earlier menopause with a longer duration of estrogen deficiency and a strong family history of Alzheimer's disease are associated with higher Alzheimer's Disease risk. The role of testosterone and progesterone on cognitive function is less clear. Tip: Current evidence doesn't recommend hormone therapy for use of treating brain fog or prevention of Alzheimer's Disease. However, there's some data to suggest that estrogen-only hormone therapy started in perimenopause may be associated with a reduced risk of Alzheimer's disease. The MIND (Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay), Mediterranean, and DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diets are associated with slower cognitive decline and lower risk of dementia. What's good for the heart is good for the brain (and vice versa). See lifestyle tips under 'Heart Health,' plus stay connected and socialize! Gut Health The gut microbiome and estrogen have a cozy relationship. Gut microbes regulate estrogen metabolism, and estrogen influences microbial composition and function. A decline in estrogen is linked to a shift in the gut microbiome and increased gut barrier permeability. This can cause inflammation and contribute to metabolic dysfunction. The link between progesterone and testosterone to gut health are less well-studied, though testosterone levels are linked to specific microbiome changes. Tip: For optimal gut health, eat the Mediterranean diet (it's strongly supported for its ability to increase gut microbial diversity, reduce intestinal permeability, and lower systemic inflammation), increase fiber intake from sources such as whole grains, legumes, fruits, and vegetables, engage in regular physical activity, potentially supplement with a pre- or probiotic, and, yes, consider hormone therapy. Metabolism Estrogen deficiency impairs energy homeostasis (the balance between food intake and food expenditure), leading to increased fat accumulation and reduced metabolic flexibility. Tip: Hormone therapy isn't recommended solely for the purpose of improving metabolic health or for weight loss, but when initiated in perimenopause, it's associated with reduced central adiposity, improved insulin sensitivity, lower fasting glucose, and a decreased risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. See lifestyle modifications in the sections above to implement as well. Sleep Multiple studies demonstrate that declining estrogen and progesterone contribute to sleep disruption both directly—via effects on central nervous system sleep regulation—and indirectly by exacerbating vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes, which can disrupt sleep. Tip: Hormone therapy can help improve sleep (both estrogen and combined estrogen-progesterone regimens are effective, with the addition of progesterone showing greater benefit for sleep disturbance than estrogen alone). On the other hand, CBT is the most effective nonpharmacologic intervention for improving sleep in menopausal women. Additionally, focus on physical exercise, mindfulness and relaxation techniques; address vasomotor symptoms; maintain a regular sleep schedule; and see a sleep specialist to rule out a sleep disorder for persistent issues. Genitourinary Health Estrogen deficiency can result in vaginal dryness, burning, irritation, dyspareunia (recurrent or persistent pain during sex), urinary urgency, frequency, dysuria (pain, burning, or discomfort during urination), and recurrent urinary tract infections. The decline in testosterone as we age contributes to the severity and persistence of these symptoms. Tip: Local estrogen therapy is the first-line treatment for Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM). Clinical studies show that intravaginal DHEA (prasterone) improves GSM symptoms as well. Prasterone converts to both local estrogen and testosterone, which is an added benefit as there are androgens receptors in this area. Use oil-based or silicone-based lubricants and avoid irritants (e.g., perfumed soaps, douches) that exacerbate the vulvovaginal irritation and dryness; pelvic floor physical therapy can improve urinary, vulvovaginal, and pelvic floor dysfunction symptoms. Sexual Health Low estrogen levels are strongly associated with negative impacts on sexual health, particularly through the development of vulvovaginal atrophy (the thinning, drying, and inflammation of the vaginal walls), which leads to vaginal dryness, reduced lubrication, dyspareunia, and decreased arousal and orgasmic capacity. Estrogen deficiency also contributes to reduced vaginal blood flow and elasticity, further impairing sexual function. Low testosterone levels may contribute to reduced sexual desire and arousal. Tip: See "Genitourinary Health" section above. Structured programs—including CBT and mindfulness techniques—have demonstrated significant improvements in overall sexual function, as well as in specific domains such as desire, arousal, lubrication, orgasm, satisfaction, and pain. Addressing communication, sexual myths, and partner dynamics is essential for optimizing outcomes; Testosterone therapy can also be considered in select cases of hypoactive sexual desire disorder. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Hormone Therapy Can Be Life-Changing—And You Can Start It Sooner Than You Think
Welcome to the Perimenopause Playbook—your guide to navigating the most overlooked and misunderstood phase of the menopausal transition. Read the rest of the stories, from how to get a diagnosis to treatment options to where to actually find good care, here. By now, you've probably heard the negative messaging around hormone therapy (also known as hormone replacement therapy or HRT). It's dangerous! It causes breast cancer! It'll make you gain weight! Except these are half-truths. Hormone therapy can actually be life-changing for menopausal women—and provide the most benefits, with the lowest risks, for perimenopausal women. When we talk about hormone therapy, we're typically referring to low doses of estradiol (the primary form of estrogen in your body during your reproductive years) and progesterone. Unlike the hormones commonly found in birth control, these aren't synthetic hormones—they are known as bioidentical hormones, which have the same chemical makeup as the hormones in our body. Hormone therapy is FDA-approved to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, painful sex, and recurrent UTIs. It also offers some pretty amazing benefits, such as preserving bone health, improving heart health, and lowering the risk of diabetes. If a woman doesn't have a uterus, then she typically only takes estrogen, but if she does, she takes both estrogen and progesterone to protect the lining of the uterus from excess thickening. In perimenopause, estrogen and progesterone fluctuate wildly, which can make it a little tricky to find the right dosage (usually you start on the lowest dose and go up based on response, tolerability, and efficacy). This is why ob-gyns will often recommend birth control pills or a progestin IUD—potentially with an added low dose of estradiol—as a first course of action to alleviate symptoms. The birth control can turn off the crazy fluctuating hormones (therefore controlling irregular periods and, in some cases, eliminating them completely). It also provides contraception since you can still get pregnant while in perimenopause. But for perimenopausal women who haven't had great experiences with birth control, are experiencing bothersome symptoms, and aren't planning to get pregnant, experts agree that hormone therapy can be a good option for them. 'For young people who are having [perimenopausal] symptoms, unless they have an absolute contraindication like breast cancer, the benefits are going to outweigh the risks,' says Jan Shifren, MD, a gynecologist, reproductive endocrinologist, and director of the Mass General Hospital Midlife Women's Health Center. Some other contraindications are a history of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke, liver disease, estrogen-sensitive cancers, and unexplained vaginal bleeding. 'Once you are in your 50s, then you have to be a little bit more concerned about risks than a young person does.' For women over 60 who take estrogen and progesterone for more than four years, research has shown there's a slight increase in breast cancer risk—1 out of every 1,000 women—as well as an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and dementia (more on that in 'The Great Hormone Therapy Comeback' here). To experience the most benefits with the lowest risks, it's ideal to start hormone therapy before you turn 60 or within 10 years of your last period. That said, you can begin as early as your 30s. In fact, there are young patients with premature ovarian insufficiency (when a woman's ovaries stop working before she's 40) who require hormone therapy much earlier than others going through natural menopause. However, Dr. Shifren says perimenopausal women shouldn't start hormone therapy to prevent symptoms. Rather, they should think of hormone therapy as a potential treatment option for symptoms affecting their quality of life. Determining when to stop taking it, if at all, depends on your goals for the therapy weighed against potential side effects and risks. Make sure to discuss this with a certified menopause practitioner. Testosterone Enters the Chat Spoiler alert: Women produce three times more testosterone than estrogen before menopause. Testosterone gradually declines as we age, and that can impact mood, energy level, libido (a.k.a. sex drive), bone health, and muscle mass. As menopause has gone mainstream, some female urologists are advocating that women add testosterone to their hormone therapy regimen. The problem? There are zero FDA-approved testosterone products for women, which makes it difficult for us to access and afford it. 'The role of testosterone is just a lesson in gender bias,' says Kelly Casperson, MD, a urologist. 'Because 100 percent of women will have low testosterone and there's zero FDA-approved products. About 20 percent of men will have low testosterone and there are plenty of FDA-approved products.' Not all health care practitioners agree that women should be prescribed testosterone, though. Dr. Shifren, a gynecologist, notes that the actual benefit of testosterone above that of a placebo is very small—though she acknowledges a placebo works—and she prefers to get to the root cause of symptoms like low libido. 'Low libido is incredibly common for women, and it's often due to things like fatigue, stress, relationship conflict, depression, anxiety, and painful sex,' she explains. 'It's much easier to write prescriptions for off-label compounded testosterone and send someone on their way. But when you really take a thorough look at their history, you find a lot of things that people can improve to make their lives better.' Dr. Casperson argues that, placebo effect or not, there isn't harm in prescribing women low-dose testosterone—five milligrams per day in the form of a gel or a cream—if it improves their symptoms and they monitor their levels. (Though it's not recommended to go on T if you can or are planning to get pregnant, as it could affect the baby.) Consult a health care professional to discuss potential side effects and risks. This story appears in the Summer 2025 issue of Women's Health. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
It's Not Only Normal To Enter Perimenopause In Your 30s—It May Be More Common Than Even Doctors Realized
Welcome to the Perimenopause Playbook—your guide to navigating the most overlooked and misunderstood phase of the menopausal transition. Read the rest of the stories, from how to get a diagnosis to treatment options to where to actually find good care, here. Lindsay Welch knew something was up when she began waking in the middle of the night sweating, her body radiating a heat that made zero sense in San Francisco's chilly climate. The problem followed the 36-year-old when she moved to Austin, where her overheated body continued to fight sleep despite the constant blast of the air conditioner. Throughout the day, her mind felt foggy, as if a thick cloud cover were obscuring her thoughts. She gained about 20 pounds in six months; meanwhile, her libido fell off a cliff. But what really drove her over the edge was her strangest symptom yet: a persistent itchiness in her ears. What started as an uncomfortable dryness progressed into an itch so strong that she fantasized about taking a wire brush to her ear canal. 'It was insane,' says Welch, who's now 41. 'There was no Q-tip strong enough.' Again and again she described her symptoms to a variety of health care providers—general practitioners, ob-gyns. Maybe she just drank too much coffee, some of them suggested. Maybe she was depressed, others said. Meanwhile, her symptoms intensified, like the volume on a stereo being turned up louder and louder until it's impossible to ignore. At one point, she felt so low that she didn't even want to get dressed in the morning. 'You start to just be like, Well, maybe I really am depressed,' she says. 'There was a gray filter on everything.' Years passed this way, until she was 40 years old. As she continued to search for answers, she began receiving content on Instagram and TikTok about perimenopause. For Welch, the term was new, but the symptoms were all too familiar. She watched as her peers described what they were going through, and she thought, I have that, I have that, she says. 'And it was just like, I'm not crazy.' She made an appointment at Midi Health, a telehealth clinic specializing in perimenopause and menopause care. There, the clinician confirmed that Welch was in perimenopause. 'I just felt like a weight lifted off my shoulders,' she says. 'Somebody actually listened to me.' Today, Welch and millions of other millennial women are already in or entering perimenopause, an often overlooked phase of the menopausal transition. (Lately, some have attempted to rebrand this stage as 'Millenopause'; the less said about this new term, the better.) During perimenopause, the ovaries gradually produce less estrogen and progesterone, causing a fluctuation in hormones. This hormonal roller coaster is associated with, deep breath, 60 symptoms, including but not limited to hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, recurrent UTIs, depression, anxiety, heart palpitations, insomnia, and, yes, itchy ears, as Welch experienced. Though some lucky women may not experience any symptoms at all. And while a cohort of millennials may think they're too young for perimenopause, new evidence suggests a surprising number of women in their 30s are in this stage now. In a recent study of 4,500 women in the U.S., more than a quarter of 30- to 35-year-old respondents had been told by a medical professional that they were perimenopausal. More than half of them reported experiencing moderate to severe symptoms, including hot flashes. Hot flashes and night sweats can actually start 11 years before your final period and can last up to 14 years total. Yet when you ask 30-year-old women at what age they expect to experience menopause-related symptoms, most will tell you the effects won't hit until they're 50. That's probably because young women have no clue that a whole phase before menopause even exists, let alone that it could begin in their 30s. Scroll through the r/Perimenopause subreddit and you'll find 66,000 Reddit users trading stories about odd symptoms they're experiencing and the seemingly endless search for a diagnosis. 'About to turn 39 and having some 'changes.' Is this perimenopause?' writes one user. Another: 'Started peri at 32. How to make people believe me?' And another: 'It all happened so quickly.' All of which raises a larger question: Are we heading toward menopause earlier than our mothers and grandmothers did, or have women started the menopausal transition this young all along? If perimenopause is easily misunderstood, that's in part because the language of menopause itself is confusing. Although menopause is often spoken about as if it were a phase of life, 'menopause refers to the time when ovulation has ceased 12 consecutive months prior,' says Samantha M. Dunham, MD, an ob-gyn and codirector of the Center for Midlife Health and Menopause at NYU Langone. Perimenopause is the time leading up to and through menopause. Some women will experience this stage for only a couple of years, while others may linger in it for up to 10 years. After women have gone one full year without a period, they're in postmenopause for the rest of their lives. In the United States, the average age of menopause is 52, which means perimenopause typically begins in the early to mid-40s. But this depends largely on race and ethnicity. Black, Asian, and Latina women tend to enter menopause earlier than white women, according to research—which would suggest, then, that these women experience perimenopause earlier too. 'Every person comes in with their unique genetic predisposition, their own health factors, and their own lifestyle practices,' says Rajita Patil, MD, an ob-gyn and the director of the Comprehensive Menopause Program at UCLA. 'It's not a cookie-cutter sort of situation at all.' Since hormone levels are constantly fluctuating in perimenopause, there's no single blood test for diagnosis. Instead, health care practitioners rely on a series of questions about a patient's cycle and symptoms. 'I'm usually asking, number one, has there been a change in your periods, like timing, flow, or frequency?' says Tara Iyer, MD, medical director of the Menopause and Midlife Clinic at Brigham and Women's Hospital. 'And then I also discuss symptoms. Is there a change in symptoms that you've had, or a progression of symptoms?' If the patient answers yes and is in her late 30s to mid-40s, that usually indicates to Dr. Iyer that it's perimenopause. She acknowledges that women can start to experience symptoms even before their cycle becomes irregular—due to hormonal shifts. Dr. Iyer cautions, however, that having symptoms associated with perimenopause doesn't necessarily mean you are in perimenopause. Joint stiffness and mood changes are hallmarks of perimenopause, but they are also symptoms of vitamin D deficiency. Hypothyroidism and perimenopause share many symptoms, including depression and changes to the menstrual cycle. Women with premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD), which can be exacerbated as we age, may also mistake these symptoms for peri. Due to the transparent volume of peri symptoms and a lack menopause education, women like Welch are often dismissed when seeking answers from their health care practitioners, including their own ob-gyns. Even though women make up half the population—and 1 billion globally are currently experiencing perimenopause or menopause—menopause education and training are practically nonexistent. 'There was no curriculum around menopause when I was going through med school and residency,' says Dr. Patil, who's been practicing for 20 years. 'This is not unique to my own experience.' Dr. Patil is right. Ninety-three percent of graduating residents in internal medicine, family medicine, or obstetrics and gynecology do not feel comfortable managing menopause-related symptoms, per a 2019 study, likely because they received little to no education on menopause throughout their entire residency training. Even Mary Claire Haver, MD, a menopause influencer and New York Times bestselling author with over 2.9 million followers on Instagram, admitted she had previously 'missed things and dismissed things' due to a lack of training and education. Now, physicians like Dr. Haver, Sharon Malone, MD, and Alicia Robbins, MD, are trying to fill the menopause education gaps online. Others, like Dr. Patil, Dr. Iyer, and Dr. Dunham, are making menopause care more accessible by establishing specialized programs for it. The Menopause Society, a leading authority on menopause, recently announced a $10 million comprehensive menopause training program that aims to reach 25,000 professionals within the next three years. 'I'm grateful it's getting so much attention,' Welch says. The conversation on social media was, after all, how she finally figured out an explanation for her many and varied symptoms. 'It's good that it's not these corny jokes about hot flashes anymore.' Even with all the discourse around perimenopause, most experts won't go as far as to say that perimenopause is occurring at higher rates than usual in younger women. Rather, between a growing call for menopause education, millennials' track record of breaking taboos (see: mental health, postpartum depression, and infertility), and a little thing called the social media algorithm, we're simply hearing more stories about perimenopause. It's not only normal for some women in their 30s to enter perimenopause—it might be more common than we realized. 'Because doctors haven't been really addressing this properly, and the patients also haven't been more aware of what to look for until recently, there's a lot we're learning,' says Dr. Patil. It's easy to spiral about all the possible symptoms associated with perimenopause, but Dr. Patil wants women to think of perimenopause as a window of opportunity. It's a time when we can evaluate our current health and optimize our bodies for the next part of our lives. 'We need to address the symptoms that are going on with you that affect your quality of life in the short term,' she says. 'But we also have to remember that natural estrogen is protective for the whole body. So when we lose that, it makes the organ systems more predisposed to chronic diseases.' To prevent chronic disease, the goal is to address the cause by decreasing inflammation in the body. That means focusing on lifestyle interventions, such as eating a high-protein and fiber-rich whole foods diet, prioritizing strength training, eliminating smoking and alcohol intake, sleeping at least seven hours per night, and managing stress. It could also mean considering hormone therapy, which can be an effective treatment for symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness, which may be contributing to inflammation. The best course of treatment, if any, depends on your symptoms, how much they're impacting your life, and any risk factors you may have. Welch is currently on hormone therapy and a GLP-1, and the combination is working for her. 'I feel like I am able to be a more productive human, and probably a nicer human,' she says. Reflecting on her age and symptoms sometimes makes her think about her mom, who at 40 experienced weight fluctuation and mood changes, just like Welch. Her mom may not have had the word to describe what was going on with her, but she emphasized to Welch the importance of speaking up for yourself. 'I just want women—and anybody, actually—to continue to advocate for themselves in the health care space,' Welch says. 'I'm so lucky I had a mom who had a take-no-prisoners approach. It really instilled that same attitude in me.' This story appears in the Summer 2025 issue of Women's Health. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Health
- Yahoo
Hot Flashes Impact Heart And Brain Health. Why Aren't More Women Seeking Treatment For Them?
Welcome to the Perimenopause Playbook—your guide to navigating the most overlooked and misunderstood phase of the menopausal transition. Read the rest of the stories, from how to get a diagnosis to treatment options to where to actually find good care, here. Up to 80 percent of women experience hot flashes, otherwise known as vasomotor symptoms, at some point in the menopausal transition. Yet only about a quarter of women receive treatment for them. And, no, they're not just inconvenient—they can actually have a lasting impact on your health. Hot flashes are correlated with increased memory problems and Alzheimer's disease biomarkers in the blood. They're also associated with increased cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, particularly in perimenopausal women. Hot flashes that occur during REM sleep have greater ties to CVD. 'I envision that hot flashes are going to be [treated] like blood pressure changes,' says Pauline Maki, PhD, a professor of psychiatry, psychology, and ob-gyn at the University of Illinois at Chicago. 'Once you reach a certain threshold of hot flashes, I think we're going to find that you need to treat them to optimize your heart and brain health.' What Triggers a Hot Flash: There are neurons in an area of the brain called the hypothalamus. These neurons are responsible for regulating body temperature and are influenced by estrogen. When estrogen declines in perimenopause, menopause, and postmenopause, the neurons become overactive, dysregulating body temperature and triggering the hot flashes. The Threshold: NIH-funded clinical trials are underway to determine what frequency and intensity of hot flashes negatively impact the brain and heart. Dr. Maki notes that surges in stress hormones like cortisol could be a factor—especially if a woman is more exposed to this stress hormone than a woman with fewer symptoms—but more research is needed to determine the cause. We do know that Black and Native women experience more frequent and intense hot flashes than their white counterparts. The Role of Estrogen: It's the hot flashes that are affecting the brain and heart—not the estrogen. 'The idea is you treat the symptoms, you don't treat the loss of estrogen,' explains Dr. Maki. 'There's too much messaging about 'Oh, the loss of estrogen leads to dementia.' Well, we'd all be demented if that's the case, because all of us lose estrogen.' Hot Flash Relief Hormone therapy is the most effective treatment for hot flashes, but there are nonhormonal treatments available as well. The first NK3 receptor antagonist that's FDA-approved to treat moderate to severe hot flashes. A selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) that's also FDA-approved to treat hot flashes. This medication used to treat epilepsy and chronic nerve pain is sometimes prescribed off-label. CBT is found to reduce the impact of hot flashes and improve quality of life. A small study shows acupuncture improves hot flashes, though researchers believe this is due to placebo effect rather than the treatment itself. This story appears in the Summer 2025 issue of Women's Health. You Might Also Like Jennifer Garner Swears By This Retinol Eye Cream These New Kicks Will Help You Smash Your Cross-Training Goals
Yahoo
22-04-2025
- Health
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Best Supplements for Menopause Weight Gain and Belly Fat 2025 - Top Supplement for Menopausal Weight Loss By YourBiology
YourBiology GLASGOW, United Kingdom, April 22, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --Menopause often brings challenges like stubborn belly fat, slowed metabolism, and hormonal weight gain, leaving many women frustrated. The good news? With the right combination, you can regain control of your weight and feel more confident. In 2025, the best menopause supplements for belly fat, appetite control, and overall health, can address specific concerns like bloating, mood swings, and gut health. Effective supplements for menopausal weight gain like PhenQ and YourBiology Gut+ work to tackle weight loss from different angles, helping you reduce overall body weight and feel more energized. Best Menopause Supplements for Belly Fat and Weight Loss Here is a quick introduction to the market leaders. PhenQ - Belly Fat Burner and Appetite Suppressant YourBiology - Probiotic Supplement for Menopause Weight Loss PhenQ and YourBiology are 2 of the best sellers from Wolfson Berg, a manufacturer of natural health supplements available to the United States, UK, Canada, Australia and many other countries. Products can be used individually or together as a complete menopause weight management solution for burning fat and gut health. Both products come with a 60 day money back guarantee! PhenQ - Fat Burner and Appetite SuppressantPhenQ for Women during Menopause, Perimenopause, and Post-Menopause >>> CLICK to view PHENQ price and latest special offers << >> CLICK to view pricing on YourBiology and latest promotions <<< 1. Eases DigestionYourBiology Gut+ works to improve digestion, easing bloating and discomfort caused by hormonal changes during menopause. 2. Strengthens ImmunityThis supplement promotes a healthy gut microbiome, which plays a key role in boosting the immune system—especially important as immunity tends to decline with age. 3. Aids in Weight ManagementProbiotics in YourBiology Gut+ help regulate metabolism, making it easier to manage weight and tackle stubborn belly fat that often appears during menopause. 4. Enhances Nutrient UptakeA balanced gut supports better absorption of essential nutrients, ensuring your body gets the vitamins and minerals it needs during hormonal transitions. 5. Reduces Stress and Improves MoodSince gut health is closely tied to mood regulation, YourBiology Gut+ helps reduce stress and anxiety, offering emotional relief during menopause's hormonal shifts. Why YourBiology Is a Great Supplement for Menopausal Women Trying to Lose Weight If you're a menopausal woman struggling with weight gain, particularly around the midsection, YourBiology Gut+ is a powerful supplement to consider. While PhenQ focuses on burning fat, boosting metabolism, and curbing cravings, YourBiology tackles weight management from a completely different angle—by improving gut health. When used together, these two supplements complement each other, addressing the root causes of menopausal weight gain more effectively. Gut Health and Weight Loss: A Different Approach During menopause, hormonal shifts could disrupt your gut microbiome, leading to bloating, slow digestion, and weight gain. YourBiology's women-focused probiotic formula restores balance to your gut by delivering 20 billion CFUs of good bacteria, including strains like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Lactobacillus paracasei. Probiotic supplements work to optimize digestion, reduce bloating, and improve nutrient absorption—all essential for healthy weight management. >> Click to view best probiotic for Bloating and Gas << YourBiology also includes prebiotics (like inulin) to nourish these good bacteria and ensure they thrive, while digestive enzymes break down fats, proteins, and carbs, making digestion smoother. By promoting a healthier gut, YourBiology helps tackle issues like inflammation and sluggish metabolism, which are common barriers to weight loss during menopause. How It Works Alongside PhenQ While PhenQ tackles fat burning, appetite control, and energy levels, YourBiology complements this by supporting the gut-brain axis. Studies show that a healthy gut regulates serotonin production, which not only improves mood but also curbs emotional eating—a challenge many menopausal women face. Additionally, better digestion and reduce bloating from YourBiology helps you feel lighter and more comfortable, enhancing the overall weight-loss journey. Additional Benefits for Menopausal Women YourBiology doesn't stop at weight management. It also: Balances vaginal flora to address yeast overgrowth. Reduces stress by improving serotonin production. Improves skin health by supporting the skin barrier for a youthful glow. The Perfect Tandem Solution By combining PhenQ's fat-burning power with YourBiology's gut-healing properties, you can target menopausal weight reduction from two angles: metabolism and digestion. Together, they offer a holistic, science-backed approach to help you feel healthier, lighter, and more confident. What is the Menopause Menopause is a natural stage of life that every woman will experience, typically occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. It marks the end of a woman's reproductive years and is brought on by a significant decline in estrogen and other hormones. While menopause is a normal biological process, its symptoms vary widely from woman to woman, impacting both physical and emotional well-being. Why the Menopause Causes Weight Gain One of the most common challenges during menopause is weight gain. Many women notice an increase in body fat, particularly around the midsection, which feels frustrating and difficult to manage. This weight gain is largely influenced by hormonal changes, such as decreased estrogen levels, which alters the way the body stores fat. Additionally, menopause often brings about a slower metabolism and a reduction in muscle mass, making it even harder to maintain a healthy weight. However, maintaining a balanced lifestyle can make a significant difference in managing menopause symptoms and protecting long-term health. Regular physical activity, a nutrient-rich diet, and good sleep hygiene help mitigate weight gain and improve overall well-being. These healthy habits not only support weight management but also reduce the risk of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome—conditions that become more prevalent after menopause. Though menopause is an inevitable part of aging, understanding its effects and taking proactive steps to care for your body can help you navigate this transition with confidence and vitality. Understanding Menopausal Symptoms Menopause affects every woman differently, but common symptoms include hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and vaginal dryness. These changes often begin during perimenopause, the years leading up to menopause, and sometimes linger into post-menopause, when hormone levels settle at lower levels. A major factor behind these symptoms is the drop in estrogen. This hormonal shift doesn't just cause discomfort—it also makes it easier to gain weight, especially around the belly. Slower metabolism and changes in fat storage during this time can make managing weight feel like an uphill battle. The good news is that there are ways to ease the transition. Staying active, eating a balanced diet, and managing stress makes a big difference. Supplements like vitamin D can help keep your bones strong, while probiotics support gut health and digestion. Small, consistent changes can go a long way in making this stage of life more manageable. Risks Associated with Menopausal Belly Fat Menopausal weight gain, especially the buildup of belly fat, isn't just frustrating—it can be dangerous to your health. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, many women notice an increase in stomach fat or excess weight around the middle. Unfortunately, this isn't just about how your clothes fit. The fat stored around your abdomen can surround vital organs, leading to inflammation and increasing the risk of serious health issues. Abdominal fat is strongly linked to a higher chance of developing chronic conditions including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers, such as breast and uterine cancer. It can also contribute to high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. These risks could snowball if left unmanaged, potentially leading to heart attacks, strokes, or other life-threatening problems. The good news? You can take control. Regular exercise such as walking, strength training, or yoga burns stomach fat and boosts your metabolism. Pair that with a balanced diet full of fiber, lean protein, and healthy fats, and you're on your way to a healthier you. Supplements like omega-3s for inflammation, probiotics for digestion, and vitamin D for bone health can also give you a helpful boost. By tackling belly fat head-on with these lifestyle changes, you're not just protecting yourself from chronic illnesses—you're improving your energy, confidence, and overall quality of life. It's never too late to take charge of your health. Effective Solutions for Weight Management For Older Women Managing menopausal weight gain requires a multi-faceted approach. Adopting lifestyle changes like following a balanced, nutrient-rich diet, engaging in regular exercise, and practicing stress management techniques significantly reduce weight gain and ease menopausal symptoms. Dietary supplements, including fiber, omega-3s, and probiotics, further support healthy digestion, metabolism, and overall well-being. For some women, hormone therapy—such as estrogen replacement therapy—may be recommended by healthcare providers to address hormonal imbalances, which contribute to weight gain and other menopause-related challenges. Best Menopause Supplements Certain supplements, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and probiotics, help alleviate menopause symptoms and support overall health. Menopause supplements, such as black cohosh and red clover, may also help reduce hot flashes and night sweats. It's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements to ensure they are safe and effective. Dietary Changes for Older Females For women going through menopause, hormonal changes make losing weight more challenging, especially with a slower metabolism and common symptoms like bloating and hot flashes. A diet focused on whole foods, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can help manage weight while supporting overall health and hormonal balance. Since metabolism naturally slows with age, eating fewer calories than you burn is essential—but it's not just about eating less; it's about eating smarter. Include protein-rich foods like fish, eggs, and beans to keep you full, maintain muscle mass, and boost metabolism. Add healthy fats from nuts, olive oil, and avocados to stabilize energy levels, and choose fiber-rich foods such as leafy greens and legumes to improve digestion and reduce bloating. Cutting back on processed foods, refined sugars, and alcohol also balance hormones and prevent weight gain. Staying hydrated and reducing caffeine can ease hot flashes and help you feel more comfortable. These small changes make a big difference as your body adjusts. Exercise and Physical Activity During Menopausal Transition Regular exercise is crucial for managing menopausal weight gain and symptoms like mood swings and fatigue. Hormonal changes often cause belly fat to build up, so a mix of aerobic activity and strength training is ideal. Cardio exercises (walking, swimming, or cycling) burn calories and improve heart health, while strength training helps maintain muscle mass, which naturally declines with age but is key for keeping your metabolism strong. Exercises like yoga or Pilates also ease stress, improve flexibility, and help with hot flashes. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardio weekly, with two strength-training sessions to support muscle and bone health. Staying active not only helps with weight loss but also boosts mood and energy, making it easier to navigate this stage of life feeling strong and confident. 10 Frequently Asked Questions About Menopause Supplements for Weight Loss and Belly Fat 1. Are menopause supplements effective for weight loss?Yes, menopause supplements can support weight management by addressing factors like hormonal imbalances, slower metabolism, and digestive issues. Supplements like probiotics, appetite suppressants, and metabolism boosters work best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. 2. How do probiotics target belly fat during menopause?Probiotics improve gut health by balancing gut bacteria, which enhance digestion, reduce bloating, and regulate metabolism. Certain strains, like Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium breve, may also reduce fat storage and curb cravings. 3. Are dietary supplements for body fat safe for women over 50?Most menopause supplements are designed with older women in mind and are generally safe. However, it's important to choose high-quality products from reputable brands and consult your doctor before starting, especially if you're on medication or have health conditions. 4. Do menopause weight loss pills target belly fat specifically?While no pill can target belly fat exclusively, supplements that boost metabolism, reduce appetite, and balance hormones help prevent fat accumulation in the abdominal area, a common issue during menopause. 5. How long does it take to see results with menopause supplements?Results vary depending on the supplement and individual factors. Many women notice improvements in digestion, energy, and mood within 2–4 weeks, but significant weight loss may take 8–12 weeks with consistent use and lifestyle changes. 6. Can I take menopause supplements with hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?Yes, many menopause supplements, such as probiotics or natural weight loss pills, can be taken alongside HRT. However, always consult your healthcare provider to avoid potential interactions or side effects. 7. What ingredients should I look for in menopause weight loss products?Look for ingredients like green tea extract (for metabolism), probiotics (for gut health), fiber (for appetite control), omega-3s (for inflammation), and vitamin D (for mood and bone health). Avoid products with unnecessary fillers or stimulants. 8. Are probiotics alone enough to lose weight and belly fat during menopause?Probiotics are a great addition to your weight loss efforts as they support gut health and digestion, but they work best when combined with a balanced diet, regular exercise, and other lifestyle changes. 9. Do menopause supplements stop other symptoms like hot flashes or mood swings?Many weight loss supplements for menopause also include ingredients that help alleviate other symptoms, like mood swings, hot flashes, and low energy levels. For example, vitamin D and probiotics improve mood, while omega-3s reduce inflammation and support overall well-being. 10. Do I need a prescription to buy menopause supplements for weight loss?No, most menopause supplements are available over the counter or online without a prescription. However, always choose clinically tested products from trusted brands and consult your doctor if you're unsure which one is right for you. Attachment YourBiology CONTACT: Project Name: YourBiology Contact Person - Mark Jones Websites: Email: M_jones@ WOLFSON BRANDS (UK and USA) LIMITED 12 Payne Street Glasgow G4 0LF United KingdomSign in to access your portfolio
