Know Your Risks for Heart Disease
Know Your Risks for Heart Disease
Hello, fabulous ladies, and welcome to a special Heart Health Month edition of Menopause Mondays®! Today, we’re diving deep into the topic of heart health and focusing on something vital – knowing your risks for heart disease. While menopause brings its own changes and challenges, understanding and managing these risks can make a world of difference in keeping your heart happy and healthy.
Risk Factors That Can Be Managed
Did you know that the simple fact of being a woman increases your risk for heart disease and stroke? Ladies, when it comes to your heart health, knowledge is power. Let’s explore the risk factors you can control or treat with lifestyle changes and the help of your healthcare provider.
1. High Blood Pressure
The Silent Assassin: High blood pressure, also known as hypertension, is often called the “silent killer” because it typically has no symptoms. It can sneak up on you when you least expect it.
Control It: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider can help monitor your blood pressure. Lifestyle changes like reducing sodium intake, increasing physical activity, and managing stress can make a significant difference.
2. Smoking
Stub Out the Fire: Smoking is a significant risk factor for heart disease. It’s time to kiss that cigarette goodbye!
Control It: Seek support and resources to quit smoking. Your healthcare provider can offer guidance and recommend smoking cessation programs.
3. High Blood Cholesterol, Raising LDL (bad cholesterol) and decreasing HDL (good cholesterol)
Cholesterol Conundrum: These changes can clog your arteries and increase your risk of cardiovascular disease.
Control It: Focus on a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit saturated and trans fats. Medications may also be recommended if diet and exercise aren’t enough.
4. Lack of Regular Activity
Sitting Is the New Smoking: Leading a sedentary lifestyle can increase your heart disease risk. Aim to move that marvelous body of yours!
Control It: Incorporate regular physical activity into your routine. It doesn’t have to be an intense workout – a brisk walk or a dance session in your living room can work wonders.
5. Obesity or Overweight
Weighty Matters: Carrying excess weight puts added strain on your heart and can lead to various health issues.
Control It: Focus on achieving and maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. Your healthcare provider can help you set realistic goals.
6. Diabetes
Blood Sugar Blues: Diabetes can damage your blood vessels and increase your heart disease risk.
Control It: Manage your blood sugar levels through diet, medication, and regular monitoring. Your healthcare provider can provide guidance on diabetes management.
It’s crucial to understand that these risk factors aren’t isolated – they often interact. For example, obesity can lead to high blood pressure and diabetes, creating a tangled web of risks. But fear not! With knowledge and the right strategies, you can take control of your heart health.
Your Heart, Your Priority
As women in menopause, we have unique challenges and changes to navigate. But remember, your heart health should always be a top priority. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, a heart-healthy diet, exercise, and stress management are your best allies in the fight against heart disease
To celebrate Heart Health Month, let’s make a pledge to know our risks, take action, and love our hearts. Remember, it’s not just about staying fabulous; it’s about heart-healthy fabulous! 💃❤️
Stay tuned for more Menopause Mondays® and, as always, keep rocking your fabulous selves!
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I just saw your segment on CBS. Not to be dramatic but I had tears in my eyes . My life has been turned upside down since my breast cancer diagnosis. Had surgery and radiation, that was the easy part! My cancer is estrogen fed, so I am on an estrogen blocker. At 60 I was just calming down from hot flashes and mood swings, then the cancer diagnosis and this estrogen treatment that is a 5 year treatment. (I am in my second year of this medication) Going thru hot flashes, weight gain and crazy depression. I am thrilled to see someone out there helping women navigate some of the most understood parts of our lives.
Thanks for sharing your story, Marla. I am so sorry you have gone through so much. Be sure you are going to a Menopause Specialist. Speak to your specialist about the new FDA approved, non-hormonal drug for hot flashes called Fezolinetant!!!! It works in the hypothalamus area of the brain which controls body temperature. Many women tell me it works for them! Weight gain is a common problem – its very frustrating! As estrogen decreases it makes it harder to keep weight off. Some women find if they increase their muscle building routine it helps boost their metabolism. It has helped me. I bought some free weights and bands that I use at home. Be sure you are eating enough protein – menopause specialists recommend about 75-100 grams daily. There are lots of healthy eating plans like Intermittent fasting. Most women tell me that the 8/16 method helps them. On this plan you can eat from 11-7 or Noon to 8pm – make it fit your lifestyle. Basically you are eating for 8 hours of the day and then have only calorie free liquids for the remaining 16 hours. Its always best to get approval from your doctor first. Keep me posted. Good Luck!