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Menopause and Exercise
During menopause, the changes that a
woman’s body goes through are incredible. The huge hormonal shifts can alter
moods, affect weight, and cause many other physiological changes. The best
way to combat these effects of menopause is through regular and moderate
physical activity.
Exercise is very important for a woman, especially as she gets older. The
benefits of regular exercise go far beyond just losing weight. They also
include:
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Increased flexibility
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More ease of movement
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Stronger bones and increased bone mass
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Higher HDL cholesterol levels (the good
cholesterol!) and lower LDL cholesterol levels
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Lower blood pressure
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More improved and even moods
For women who do not exercise regularly during and after menopause, they
will find that they will be at an increased risk of diabetes, heart disease,
stroke, osteoporosis, and obesity. Not exercising can also lead peri- and
postmenopausal women to experience muscle stiffness, joint pain, back pain,
poor circulation, loss of bone mass, insomnia, and bowel irregularity. If
regular exercise can prevent all of these things, there is no reason not to
do it!
Regular exercise does not have to hurt, or be overly strenuous in order to
have positive effects. In fact, it should NEVER hurt. Regular and moderate
physical activities such as walking, swimming, low impact aerobics,
bicycling, or even dancing can help prevent many chronic conditions and
illnesses. And, by doing some sort of weight-bearing activity (such as
walking), a woman can help prevent bone loss and even encourage an increase
in bone mass.
Menopause is notorious for causing mood swings. One excellent benefit of
regular exercise is that it causes the body to secret endorphins, hormones
that are a positive response to stress in the body. These mood elevators can
keep moods up and even for several hours after exercise.
It is important to note that any woman who wants to begin a regular exercise
program should consult her doctor beforehand. If there are any conditions
that might require limitations, the doctor can give the best advice to
prevent injury or illness.
Exercise can have a multitude of benefits for the menopausal woman. Weight
control, a decreased risk of disease and pain, and elevated moods are just a
few of the reasons that every menopausal woman should incorporate exercise
into her life routine.
Weight Loss After Pregnancy
The role of Hormones & Weight Loss
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