Eating Right |
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After menopause and as we age, a healthy lifestyle is even more important as
your body becomes more sensitive to how it’s cared for. A well-balanced diet
may help reduce symptoms associated with menopause and decrease the risk of
heart disease.
Soy
Ask your doctor if adding soy to your diet will help reduce your cholesterol
and hot flashes and increase your bone strength. Soy products are loaded with
protein, antioxidants, phytonutients, calcium, folate and many other nutrients.
Soy is offered as pills and powders, but the most beneficial source is food.
Soybeans, soynuts, tofu and soymilk contain large amounts of soy. And don’t
forget goodies like soy ice cream and chocolate soymilk.
Calcium
After age 50, women need 1200-1500 mg of calcium each day. That’s about 4
glasses of milk or 4 servings of high calcium food such as yogurt, cottage
cheese and fortified orange juice. Your body can lose bone density at an
alarming rate after menopause, so it’s important to get enough calcium to help
keep your bones strong.
A Balanced Diet
Fruits, vegetables, high fiber grains, lean meat, beans, legumes and calcium
sources will help your body get the nutrients it needs to feel good. During
menopause, good nutrition goes a long way in helping you feel your best.
While nutrition is an important part of wellness after menopause, it’s not the
only factor. Combining daily exercise with nutrition will help
keep you alert and healthy.
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