Estrogen and Your Heart Health As women produce less estrogen, they accumulate more belly fat, part of a group of symptoms that becomes more common after menopause. Known as metabolic syndrome, it’s defined by a person having at least three of these factors: Abdominal obesity; high triglycerides; low “good” HDL cholesterol; high blood pressure; or high blood sugar. Metabolic syndrome raises the risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other conditions. It is very common in the US.
The hot flashes and night sweats of the menopausal transition have been linked to a greater risk of high blood pressure and other cardiovascular risk factors. Research has also found a link between depression during menopause and higher risk of cardiovascular disease.
Preventing Heart Disease Women who go into perimenopause at a healthy weight and are physically active are ahead of the game when it comes to staying heart healthy after menopause. But it’s never too late to make an effort to improve heart health. Research suggests a number of effective ways to prevent heart disease, including:
- Stop smoking
- Be physically active, trying for 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity per week
- Eat a balanced diet
- Maintain a healthy weight
- Get enough sleep
- Keep blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood glucose levels under control
Depression and Menopause According to research, depression is linked to an almost doubled risk of stroke in middle-aged women. The hormone changes during perimenopause can affect emotions, quality of sleep, stress, and fatigue. The menopausal transition also happens during a stressful period for many women, when they may be caring for aging parents as well as their children while working to support the family.
Anything that helps reduce stress may help you manage your emotions, including yoga, meditation, physical exercise, playing music, or journaling. Reach out to your physician if you need more help. Antidepressant medications can help with symptoms. Some women are saddened by this “change of life,” but others find it empowering to be free of worry about getting pregnant.
