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Menopause & Osteoporosis

Around the ages of 48-52, it is not uncommon for a variety of changes to occur in a woman's body. This process, called menopause, can be a very physical and emotional transition. Important nutritonal habits before, during and after menopause are very important not only to make these changes easier, but also to prevent degenerative conditions, such as osteoporosis.

As a woman's body decreases estrogen production, reproduction functions reduce along with cessation of menstruation which may cause sleeplessness, depression, and hot flashes. One of the most threatening consequences of declining estrogen levels is the loss of bone density. This reduction of bone mass is the main contributor of osteoporosis.

Natural supplementation to a balanced diet has been found to make a difference for many women. They many occur as frequently as hourly or as rarely as monthly. Usually, a hot flash results in a quick rise of body temperature which causes perspiration and an increase in blood pressure. A treatment for hot flashes which women have found yields positive results is Gamma Linolenic Acid, found in Evening Primrose Oil and Borage Oil along with vitamin E capsules. These supplements along with regular exercise may help to improve the severity of hot flashes.

To prevent bone loss and osteoporosis, may doctors prescribe calcium supplementation along with magnesium, vitamin D and boron to assist absorption. With the average intake of calcium being only 400 mg. per day, physicians have recommended and additional 1000-15-- mg. per day be consumed, not only during menopause, but before and after as week. These vitamins and minerals are important because they work together, or synergistically, to assist the body in absorbing the calcium. The following is a short complied list of suggestion which may be very helpful for deterring the problems of menopause, including osteoporosis:

• Limit alcohol and caffeine intake, and eliminate smoking
• Increase exercise and maintain a high activity level
• Begin taking calcium supplementation before menopause
• If you have had parents of grandparents suffer from osteoporosis, it is encouraged to begin supplementation early for other family members also
• Maintain a balanced nutritional diet and lower intake of high cholesterol foods.

Because every woman's body is different, it is important to consult with your healthy care practitioner to make an educated decision about your health and the nutritional options which are available to you. Learning what treatments and practices are best or your good heath and disease prevention is imperative.

References

JL Shaven, "Beyond Hormonal Therapies in Menopause. [Review]" Experimental Gerontology 29 (May-Aug 1994); 469-76.

VA Ravnikar, "Diet, exercise, and lifestyle in preparation for menopause [Review]" Obstetrics & Gynecology Clinics of North America 20 (June 1993); 365-78.

MP Harward, "Nutritive therapies for osteoporosis. The role of calcium [Review]" Medical Clinics of North America 77 (July 1993); 889-98.