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The importance of Exercise during Menopause Exercise is
vital to a healthy mind and body, but even more beneficial to those
in their menopausal years as it can help relieve many of the
troublesome symptoms associated with menopause. If you are
determined to take a positive attitude towards health, vitality and
long-life, and to prevent symptoms rather than treating them - then
physical activity must become an essential part of your life!
Heart Disease
Together with a low-fat diet, exercise can help in preventing heart
disease by conditioning the heart and lungs into working more
efficiently. Physical activity also affects
cholesterol (a fatty
substance in the blood which can build up inside arteries, resulting
in a number of problems), which exists in two forms, namely: LDL
(low density lipoprotein), which increases the risk of a heart
attack, and HDL (high density lipoprotein), which decreases the
risk. Exercise is thought to increase the amount of HDL in the
bloodstream, thus protecting against potential problems.
Osteoporosis
Regular exercise is believed to be essential in preventing
osteoporosis, or stopping the condition worsening. However, as
important as physical activity is to this condition, so is the
combined use of vitamin D and calcium, as exercise alone, would
prove ineffective in preventing bone loss.
Anxiety, irritability and insomnia
Exercise has a very powerful psychological effect, as it acts to
increase the level of endorphins in the brain. Endorphins are
substances that are thought to regulate mood changes, leaving one
with a deep sense of peace, and allowing for a more restful nights
rest.
Weight control and general appearance
During the menopausal years, food is metabolized less efficiently,
with unused excess food energy being stored as fat under the skin
and around the organs. Many women, in an attempt to maintain their
appearance often take on the wrong and most dangerous route of
succumbing to chronic dieting measures. This poses a major health
risk to the woman, as being too thin at this age increases the risk
of osteoporosis.
It would be far more sensible to follow a nutritious diet, combined
with an exercise program, whereby muscles and internal organs would
benefit aswell.
Exercise also increases blood circulation, so resulting in a more
supple, healthy toned skin.
Vaginal changes
Symptoms such as vaginal dryness and thinning are partly due to the
decrease of female hormones, being secreted by the ovaries, however,
poor blood circulation and muscle tone are also to blame. Exercise
in the form of regular sexual activity or masturbation would improve
circulation to the pelvic area and promote a healthier image of
oneself. Pelvic/Kegel exercises, where one exercises the vaginal
muscles, will improve vaginal elasticity, bladder control and sexual
pleasure.
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