Pages

Wednesday, September 2, 2015

General Information On Menopause And Slow Metabolism

By Daphne Bowen


At some stage in life, women are expected to go through menopause. This is the medical terminology used to describe the months that follow the final menstrual cycle. It is the last stage of the female reproductive system and often occurs in women who fall between the ages of 40s and 50s. There is no exact age in which this is expected to begin, but there are certain signs that can indicate that it has started. Menopause and slow metabolism often go hand in hand. Many women may gain weight during this stage in life because of the slowed metabolism and all other symptoms associated 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.

Symptoms that may arise because of this are not always favorable. Many women experience emotional struggles and hot flashes during this period. They might struggle to manage their emotions, especially feelings of anxiety, sadness and loss.

This is different for all people. Most will experience perimenopause. That is, signs of menopause that develop in the months and years leading up to the actual event. Some of the signs and symptoms associated with these stages: irregular periods, dry skin, thinning hair, loss of fullness in breasts, vaginal dryness, night sweats, weight gain, slow metabolism, hot flashes, mood changes, and difficulty sleeping. It is not uncommon for women to experience multiple symptoms at once.

A sluggish metabolism can impact a person in a number of ways. Metabolism refers to a process in which the body converts that which is consumed into energy. Even when a person is resting, the body requires energy in order to repair cells, circulate blood and breathe. The amount of calories the body utilizes for normal functions is considered basal metabolic rate. Things that may impact the rate: body composition and size, age, and sex.

Menopausal women with slow metabolism may find that they can gain weight more easily than losing it. They might notice that no matter how often or hard they exercise, it is difficult to shed pounds. The pounds usually pack on, even if they do not seem be consuming more. Usually the fat shows up in places where it was never before, which is often the midsection. Women may also have bad sugar cravings, cellulite, cracked heels, dry hair and the other symptoms that develop in menopausal women.

Working closely with a doctor is encouraged for menopausal patients. Preventative care involves breast exams, thyroid tests, pelvic exams, colonoscopy, lipid screenings and mammography. It is important that these women have all of the vitamins and minerals they need to reduce symptoms, including the weight gain. Regular exercise, a balanced diet and stress management may also help with regulating metabolism during this time.




About the Author: