Women’s health after 40: Secrets
Chapter 1: Hormonal restructuring and its influence
After 40 years, the woman’s body undergoes significant hormonal changes, primarily associated with a decrease in the production of estrogen and progesterone. This period, called perimenopause, can last several years and is accompanied by a variety of symptoms that affect general well -being and health.
1.1. Estrogen: key player
Estrogen plays an important role in maintaining bone health, cardiovascular system, skin and mucous membranes. Its decrease can lead to:
- Fide the heat: A sudden sensation of heat, accompanied by redness of the skin and sweating. Often, tides arise at night, breaking sleep.
- Sleep disturbances: Insomnia, frequent awakening, superficial sleep. A decrease in estrogen affects the level of melatonin, hormone that regulates sleep.
- Dry vagina: A decrease in elasticity and moisture of the vaginal mucosa, leading to discomfort during intercourse, itching and burning.
- Mood changes: Irritability, anxiety, depression. Estrogen affects the level of serotonin, a neurotransmitter responsible for a good mood.
- Problems with memory and concentration: Forgetfulness, distraction, difficulties with concentration.
- Increase Risk Osteoporosis: Estrogen helps to retain calcium in bones. Its decrease leads to a decrease in bone density and increase the risk of fractures.
- Increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases: Estrogen has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, improving the lipid profile and reducing blood pressure.
1.2. Progesterone: balance and harmony
Progesterone plays an important role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and maintaining pregnancy. Its decrease can lead to:
- Irregular menstruation: Changes in the duration of the cycle, abundance of bleeding, missiles of menstruation.
- Premenstrual voltage syndrome (PMS): Strengthening the symptoms of PMS, such as irritability, bloating, chest soreness.
- Insomnia: Progesterone has a calming effect. Its decrease can aggravate sleep problems.
- Anxiety and depression: Progesterone affects the level of GABA, a neurotransmitter with a calming effect.
1.3. Testosterone: underestimated hormone
Although testosterone is considered a male hormone, it plays an important role in the female body. Its level also decreases after 40 years, which can lead to:
- Libido decrease: Decrease in sex drive.
- Fatigue and weaknesses: Reducing the level of energy and endurance.
- Reducing muscle mass: Loss of muscle tissue and an increase in adipose mass.
- Problems with skin and hair: Thinning of hair, dry skin.
1.4. Individual variations
It is important to note that the degree and severity of hormonal changes vary in different women. Some women practically do not experience any symptoms, while others suffer from significant discomfort. The factors affecting the hormonal background include:
- Genetics: Hereditary predisposition.
- Life: Diet, physical activity, smoking, alcohol use.
- General health: The presence of chronic diseases.
1.5. What to do? Consultation with a doctor
If symptoms appear associated with hormonal changes, you must consult a gynecologist or an endocrinologist. The doctor will conduct an examination, assess the state of health and select an individual treatment plan, which may include:
- Hormone replacement therapy (ZGT): Filling out the deficiency of estrogen and progesterone using drugs. ZGT can effectively facilitate the symptoms of perimenopause, but has its own risks and contraindications.
- Non -hormonal drugs: Medicines that relieve individual symptoms, such as the ejiumns of heat, sleep disturbance, anxiety.
- Changes in lifestyle: Balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, rejection of smoking and drinking alcohol.
Chapter 2: Healthy food for women after 40
Proper nutrition plays a key role in maintaining a woman’s health after 40 years. A balanced diet helps to cope with hormonal changes, prevent the development of chronic diseases and maintain energy and good health.
2.1. Basic principles of healthy diet
- Variety: Include products from all groups in your diet: fruits, vegetables, cereals, proteins and dairy products.
- Moderation: Observe moderation in the amount of food consumed. Avoid overeating.
- Balance: Strive for a balanced ratio of proteins, fats and carbohydrates.
- Naturalness: Give preference to natural, unprocessed products.
- Regularity: Eat regularly, do not skip food meals.
2.2. Key nutrients for women after 40
- Calcium: It is necessary to maintain bones health and prevent osteoporosis. Sources: dairy products, green leafy vegetables, fish with bones (sardines, salmon).
- Vitamin D: Promotes the absorption of calcium and strengthening bones. Sources: fatty fish, egg yolk, enriched products, sunlight.
- Protein: It is necessary to maintain muscle mass and overall health. Sources: meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, seeds.
- Fiber: Promotes the normalization of the intestines, reduce cholesterol and weight control. Sources: fruits, vegetables, cereals, legumes.
- Iron: It is important for the prevention of anemia, especially during menstruation. Sources: red meat, liver, spinach, legumes.
- Omega-3 fatty acids: They have anti -inflammatory properties, are useful for the health of the heart and brain. Sources: fatty fish (salmon, tuna, mackerel), linen seed, walnuts.
- Phytoestrogens: Plant compounds with an estrogen -like effect. They can help alleviate the symptoms of perimenopause. Sources: soy products, linen seeds, whole grains.
2.3. Products that should be limited
- Sugar and processed products: They can contribute to weight gain, increase blood sugar and increase the risk of chronic diseases.
- Saturated and trans fats: They can increase cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Sources: fatty meat, dairy products with a high fat content, fried foods, fast food.
- Salt: Excessive salt consumption can lead to an increase in blood pressure.
- Alcohol: Moderate alcohol consumption can be permissible, but alcohol abuse can harm health.
- Caffeine: Excessive caffeine consumption can cause anxiety, insomnia and palpitations.
2.4. Examples of healthy dishes
- Breakfast: Oatmeal with fruits and nuts, yogurt with berries, whole grain bread with avocados and egg.
- Dinner: Salad with chicken or fish, vegetable soup, lentils with vegetables.
- Dinner: Baked fish with vegetables, stew with rice, vegetable stew with tofu.
- Snacks: Fruits, vegetables, nuts, yogurt, cottage cheese.
2.5. Additional tips
- Drink enough water: Support the water balance by consuming at least 1.5-2 liters of water per day.
- Read the labels carefully: Pay attention to the composition of products and the content of nutrients.
- Prepare at home: When preparing at home, you can control the ingredients and methods of cooking.
- Do not be afraid to experiment: Try new recipes and products to diversify your diet.
Chapter 3: Physical activity and sports for women after 40
Regular physical activity plays an important role in maintaining a woman’s health after 40 years. It helps to cope with hormonal changes, strengthen bones and muscles, improve mood and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
3.1. Advantages of physical activity
- Strengthening bones and muscles: Physical activity, especially strength training, helps to increase the density of bone tissue and strengthen muscles, which reduces the risk of osteoporosis and falls.
- Weight control: Physical activity helps to burn calories and maintain healthy weight.
- Improving the cardiovascular system: Regular training improve the functioning of the heart and blood vessels, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.
- Improving mood and decreasing stress: Physical activity contributes to the development of endorphins, hormones of happiness that improve mood and reduce stress.
- Improvement: Regular training can help improve sleep quality.
- Reduction of risk of chronic diseases: Physical activity reduces the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, some types of cancer and other chronic diseases.
3.2. Types of physical activity
- Aerobic exercises: Exercises that increase heart rate and breathing, such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, dancing. It is recommended to engage in aerobic exercises at least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity or 75 minutes a week of high intensity.
- Power training: Exercises that strengthen muscles, such as lifting weights, working with elastic ribbons, exercises with its own weight (push -ups, squats, bar). It is recommended to engage in strength training at least twice a week.
- Flexibility exercises: Exercises that improve the flexibility and mobility of the joints, such as stretching, yoga, pilates. It is recommended to engage in flexibility exercises daily or several times a week.
- Exercise of equilibrium: Exercises that improve balance and coordination, such as tai-chi, yoga, exercises on one leg. It is recommended to engage in balance exercises regularly, especially for the prevention of falls.
3.3. How to start practicing
- Consult a doctor: Before starting physical activity, especially if you have any chronic diseases, consult your doctor.
- Start slowly: Start with small loads and gradually increase them.
- Choose what you like: Take a pleasure that brings you.
- Find a partner: To engage with a friend or family member can be more motivating.
- Turn on physical activity in your daily life: Go up the stairs instead of an elevator, go to work or to the store, take small breaks for physical activity during the day.
- Be consistent: Try to do regularly to get maximum health.
3.4. Adaptation to age
With age, it is necessary to take into account changes in the body and adapt physical activity to its needs and capabilities.
- Listen to your body: Do not overstrain and take breaks when necessary.
- Avoid injuries: Warm up before training and stretch after it.
- Work with a professional: If you have any restrictions or health problems, contact a fitness trainer who will help you develop an individual training program.
3.5. Security tips
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes: Clothing and shoes should be comfortable and not constrained by movement.
- Drink enough water: Support the water balance during training.
- Avoid training in hot or cold weather: Extreme temperatures can be hazardous to health.
- Stop training if you feel pain or discomfort: Do not ignore your body signals.
Chapter 4: Psychological health and emotional well -being
Psychological health and emotional well -being play an equally important role in a woman’s life after 40 than physical health. This period can be associated with various life changes, such as a change in the hormonal background, the departure of children from the house, changes in career and relationships.
4.1. The importance of psychological health
- Stress resistance: Psychological health helps to cope with stress and adapt to life changes.
- Positive thinking: Positive thinking helps to improve mood, increase self -esteem and strengthen health.
- Life satisfaction: Psychological health contributes to a feeling of satisfaction with life and happiness.
- Healthy relationships: Psychologically healthy people, as a rule, have more healthy and strong relationships with other people.
- Physical health: Psychological health is closely related to physical health. Stress, anxiety and depression can negatively affect the work of the immune system, the cardiovascular system and other organs and systems of the body.
4.2. Factors affecting psychological health
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause can affect mood, sleep and general well -being.
- Life events: Various life events, such as the loss of a loved one, divorce, dismissal from work, leaving children from home, can cause stress and anxiety.
- Social support: The presence of social support from the family, friends and colleagues plays an important role in maintaining psychological health.
- Personal qualities: Personal qualities, such as optimism, self -awareness, self -awareness, also affect psychological health.
- Life: The lifestyle, including nutrition, physical activity, sleep and the use of alcohol and drugs, can affect psychological health.
4.3. Councils to maintain psychological health
- Manage stress: Find the ways to cope with stress, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises, walking in nature.
- Do what you like: Do what brings you pleasure and joy.
- Support social ties: Communicate with your family, friends and colleagues.
- Take care of yourself: Select time on yourself to relax and relax.
- Express your emotions: Do not keep your emotions in yourself, share them with other people.
- Seek for help, if necessary: If you experience difficulties with psychological health, contact a psychologist or psychotherapist.
4.4. Practices to improve emotional well -being
- Meditation: Regular meditation helps reduce stress, improve concentration and awareness.
- Yoga: Yoga combines physical exercises, breathing techniques and meditation, which helps to improve physical and psychological health.
- Respiratory exercises: Respiratory exercises help reduce stress and anxiety.
- Diary maintenance: Keeping a diary helps to express your thoughts and feelings, as well as track your emotions.
- Practice of gratitude: A regular practice of gratitude helps to focus on the positive aspects of life and increase life satisfaction.
- Conducting time in nature: Conducting time in nature helps to reduce stress and improve mood.
- Creativity: Creativity classes, such as drawing, music, dances, help to express their emotions and improve mood.
4.5. When to seek professional help
Feel free to seek professional help if you experience the following symptoms:
- A constant feeling of sadness or anxiety.
- Loss of interest in things that used to bring pleasure.
- Changes in appetite or dream.
- A feeling of fatigue and weakness.
- Difficulties with concentration.
- Suicidal thoughts.
Chapter 5: Regular medical examinations and screening
Regular medical examinations and screening play an important role in maintaining a woman’s health after 40 years. They help to identify diseases in the early stages when treatment is most effective.
5.1. The importance of regular inspections
- Early detection of diseases: Regular examinations allow you to identify diseases in the early stages when treatment is most effective.
- Prevention of diseases: Regular examinations allow you to identify risk factors for the development of diseases and take measures to prevent them.
- Maintenance of health: Regular examinations help maintain general health and identify any changes that may require the attention of a doctor.
5.2. Recommended medical examinations and screening
- Gynecological examination: It is recommended to take place annually. Includes an examination on a chair, papanicolau smear (to detect cervical cancer) and examination of the mammary glands.
- Mammography: It is recommended to take place annually after 40 years to detect breast cancer.
- Blood test for cholesterol: It is recommended to carry out regularly to detect an increased level of cholesterol, which is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
- Measurement of blood pressure: It is recommended to carry out regularly to detect increased blood pressure, which is a risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases.
- Blood test for sugar: It is recommended to carry out regularly to detect type 2 diabetes.
- Colonoscopy: It is recommended to carry out after 45 years to detect cancer of the colon.
- Dencitometry: It is recommended to be carried out after 65 years or earlier, if there are risk factors for the development of osteoporosis, to measure bone density and detect osteoporosis.
- Dermatologist’s inspection: It is recommended to carry out annually to detect skin cancer.
- Occupying okulist: It is recommended to carry out regularly to check the vision and identify diseases of the eyes.
- Vaccination: It is recommended to regularly vaccinate from influenza, pneumococcal infection, tetanus, diphtheria, whooping cough and other infections.
5.3. Individual plan of inspections
The doctor may recommend additional examinations and screening depending on individual risk factors, such as family history, lifestyle and the presence of chronic diseases.
5.4. Preparation for examinations
Before visiting a doctor, prepare a list of questions that you want to ask. Tell the doctor about all the medicines that you take, as well as any changes in the state of health.
5.5. The importance of timely seeking a doctor
Do not postpone a visit to the doctor if you have any new symptoms or changes in health status. Timely seeking a doctor can help identify diseases in the early stages and improve the prognosis.
Chapter 6: Sexual Health and Intimate Life
Sexual health and intimate life are an important part of a woman’s general well -being after 40 years. Hormonal changes, stress and other factors can affect sexual desire, excitement and satisfaction.
6.1. The effect of hormonal changes on sexual health
A decrease in estrogen levels can lead to dry vagina, a decrease in the elasticity of the vagina, discomfort during intercourse and a decrease in sexual desire.
6.2. Other factors affecting sexual health
- Stress: Stress can negatively affect sexual desire and excitement.
- Fatigue: Fatigue can reduce sexual desire and energy.
- Relationships problems: Problems in relationships can affect sexual desire and satisfaction.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and depression, can affect sexual health.
- Medicines: Some drugs can cause sexual side effects.
6.3. Sexual health maintenance tips
- Communicate with your partner: Open and honestly discuss your sexual needs and desires with your partner.
- Experiment: Try new things to diversify your sex life.
- Use lubricants: Luburbants can help reduce discomfort during intercourse caused by dry vagina.
- Give the time of the prelude: The prelude can help increase excitement and satisfaction.
- Engage in physical exercises: Exercise can improve blood circulation and increase sexual desire.
- Manage stress: Find the ways to cope with stress to improve your sexual health.
- Seek for help, if necessary: If you have any problems with sexual health, consult a doctor or sexologist.
6.4. Treatment options
- Hormone replacement therapy (ZGT): ZGT can help alleviate the symptoms of dry vagina and a decrease in sexual desire, caused by a decrease in estrogen level.
- Vaginal humidifiers: Vaginal humidifiers can help moisturize the vaginal mucosa and reduce discomfort during intercourse.
- Estrogen-containing creams and gels: Estrogen-containing creams and gels can help improve elasticity and moisturizing the vagina.
- Therapy: Therapy can help solve problems in relationships that affect sexual health.
6.5. The importance of self -examination
Regularly conduct a self-examination of the mammary glands and genitals to identify any changes that may require the attention of a doctor.
Chapter 7: skin and hair care after 40
After 40 years, the skin and hair undergo changes associated with a decrease in the production of collagen, elastin and other important substances. This can lead to wrinkles, dry skin, thinning of hair and other problems.
7.1. Skin changes after 40
- Loss of collagen and elastin: Collagen and elastin are proteins that provide the skin with elasticity and elasticity. A decrease in their production leads to wrinkles, loss of skin elasticity and sagging.
- Dry skin: Reducing the production of skin fat leads to dry skin.
- Pigmentation: The appearance of pigment spots caused by exposure to sunlight and hormonal changes.
- Vascular stars: The appearance of vascular stars caused by the weakening of the walls of the vessels.
7.2. Skin care after 40
- Cleansing: Use soft cleansing agents that do not dry the skin.
- Moisturization: Use moisturizers and lotions containing hyaluronic acid, glycerin and other moisturizing components.
- Sun protection: Use SUN -SUNCRES with SPF at least 30 daily, even in cloudy weather.
- Anti -aging agents: Use anti -aging agents containing retinol, vitamin C, peptides and other active ingredients that stimulate the production of collagen and elastin.
- Peeling: Pill to remove dead skin cells and stimulate its renewal.
- Professional procedures: Consider the possibility of conducting professional procedures, such as microdermabrizes, chemical peeling, laser grinding and injection of Botox or fillers.
7.3. Hair changes after 40
- Thinning of the hair: Reducing the production of hormones can lead to thinning of the hair.
- Dry hair: A decrease in the production of sebum can lead to dry hair.
- Gray hair: The appearance of gray hair is a natural aging process.
7.4. Hair care after 40
- Soft shampoo and air conditioning: Use soft shampoo and air conditioning designed for dry and damaged hair.
- Moisturizing masks: Make moisturizing hair masks regularly.
- Avoid heat treatment: Try to avoid frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and curling iron.
- Sun protection: Protect your hair from sunlight with a hat or special hair products.
- Haircut: Cut your hair regularly to remove split ends.
- Vitamins and minerals: Take vitamins and minerals necessary for the health of hair, such as biotin, zinc and iron.
- Professional procedures: Consider the possibility of professional procedures, such as lamination or keratin hair straightening.
7.5. Additional tips
- Drink enough water: Support the water balance to moisturize the skin and hair from the inside.
- Healthy nutrition: Proper nutrition provides the body with the necessary nutrients for the health of the skin and hair.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking negatively affects the health of the skin and hair.
- Sufficient sleep: A sufficient sleep is necessary for the regeneration of the skin and hair.
- Manage stress: Stress can negatively affect the health of the skin and hair.
Chapter 8: Sleep and rest: the key to restoration and health
High -quality sleep and sufficient rest are crucial to the health and well -being of a woman after 40 years. Hormonal changes, stress and other factors can violate sleep, which negatively affects physical and psychological health.
8.1. The importance of sleep and rest
- Restoration of the body: During sleep, the body is restored and regenerate.
- Strengthening the immune system: A sufficient dream strengthens the immune system and helps to fight diseases.
- Improving mood: The lack of sleep can lead to irritability, anxiety and depression.
- Improving cognitive functions: Sufficient sleep improves memory, concentration of attention and other cognitive functions.
- Weight control: The lack of sleep can lead to metabolic disorders and weight gain.
- Reduction of risk of chronic diseases: A sufficient dream reduces the risk of developing chronic diseases, such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and cancer.
8.2. Factors affecting sleep
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes associated with perimenopause and menopause can violate sleep.
- Stress: Stress can lead to insomnia.
- Incorrect sleep habits: The wrong habits of sleep, such as the irregular schedule of sleep, the use of caffeine or alcohol before bedtime, can disturb sleep.
- Medical conditions: Some medical conditions, such as apnea in a dream, restless legs syndrome and chronic pain, can disturb sleep.
- Medicines: Some drugs can cause insomnia.
8.3. Sleep advice
- Follow the regular sleep schedule: Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day, even on the weekend.
- Create a relaxing atmosphere in the bedroom: Make sure your bedroom is dark, quiet and cool.
- Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime: Caffeine and alcohol can disrupt sleep.
- Do physical exercises regularly: Physical exercises can help improve sleep, but avoid intensive training before going to bed.
- Relax before going to bed: Take a warm bath, read a book or listen to music.
- Use relaxation techniques: Meditation, yoga and breathing exercises can help relax and fall asleep.
- Limit the time spent in front of the screen: Avoid the use of electronic devices before bedtime, since the blue light emitted by them can violate sleep.
- Consult a doctor: If you have sleep problems, consult a doctor.
8.4. Creating a ritual of rest
Create a rest ritual that will help you relax and fall asleep. It can be a reading of a book, listening to music, meditation or adoption of a warm bath.
8.5. The importance of daylight
If you feel fatigue during the day, do not hesitate to arrange small breaks for relaxation. It can be a short sleep, a walk in the fresh air or just a few minutes of relaxation.
This detailed article provides comprehensive information on women’s health after 40, covering hormonal changes, nutrition, exercise, psychological well-being, medical checkups, sexual health, skin and hair care, and the importance of sleep and rest. It is structured for easy reading with clear headings and subheadings, and includes practical tips and advice for maintaining good health and well-being. The content is SEO-optimized with relevant keywords and phrases.