General Information On Menopause And Slow Metabolism

By Daphne Bowen


Women who reach a certain age range are expected to go through a process known as menopause. This refers to the time period following the last period. It usually occurs in women between 40 and 50 years old. There is no exact age when it can be expected, but there are symptoms that signify that it has started. Menopause and slow metabolism are closely associated. Most who go through this period will gain some weight because of the slowing down of their metabolism and other symptoms that come with menopause.

This is a biological process of the body that occurs naturally in women. Still, it comes with symptoms that many consider unfavorable. Every woman has a different experience related to menopause, but there are certain signs that are common in most during this time in life.

Menopause is a marker of the end of the fertile period in a woman. Still, a person can be healthy, sexual and vital in years that follow. Some people accept this period in time with ease because it is a time free of pregnancy concerns and a monthly period.

Some of the symptoms are not as desirable. Hot flashes and other physical problems might arise. Women are also expected to be more emotional during this process, frequently dealing with feelings of sadness, anxiety and loss.

The experience will vary by person. Many women will go through a time called perimenopause, which occurs in the years and months that lead up to menopause. Signs and symptoms associated with both of these stages in a women: dry skin, vaginal dryness, irregular periods, weight gain, night sweats, loss of breast fullness, thinning hair, trouble sleeping, changes in mood, hot flashes and slowed metabolism. Often, women will experience more than one of these symptoms at a time.

There are many ways that a slower metabolism can impact a woman. Metabolism is defined as the bodily process in which food and drink consumed is turned to energy. Even when the body resists, it is necessary for it to have energy to carry out processes like cell repair, breathing and circulation of blood. The amount of calories necessary for proper function of the body is known as basal metabolic rate and may differ based on age, body size and composition, and sex.

Menopausal patients might note that they have trouble losing weight and easily gain it. The pounds might add up, even if their diet has not changed. Usually the extra weight focuses in areas where it was never before, which is often the midsection for women. Cracked skin, cellulite, intense sugar cravings and dry hair are other signs of a slow metabolism and menopause.

Women going through this are encouraged to work closely with doctors. These professionals will ensure that preventative care is given to those in need, including pelvic exams, colonoscopy, mammography, thyroid tests and breast exams. Symptoms of this, including weight gain, may be better managed by those who have the adequate amount of vitamins and minerals in their system. Managing stress, regularly exercising and maintaining a balanced diet will also be of benefit.




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