Menopause and Andropause

By the year 2050, one in five Americans will be older than age 50, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. While getting older is a goal we all strive towards, we experience bumps along the road as our body ages. For a woman, a major bump is menopause, which marks the end of her reproductive period. For a man, he has a similar experience with andropause. Both have the ability to cause profound changes in a person’s life with the manifestation various symptoms. However, with a proactive approach through the care of a chiropractor, the bumps along the way can be minimized so that aging can be both healthy and happy.

The decline in hormones during menopause does not happen suddenly to a woman. Over a period of 6-8 years prior to menopause, the hormones estrogen and progesterone begin to fluctuate. This fluctuation leads to profound changes to a woman’s body and life. These changes include irregular periods, mood swings, irritability, hot flashes, night sweats, disturbed sleep, increased abdominal fat, and urinary problems. Additionally, after menopause, the likelihood of other health conditions increase as well, from bone loss and heart disease to memory loss and loss of libido. However, many of these symptoms can respond favorably to changes in nutrition, exercise, and dietary supplements. Interestingly, exercise is one of the most important and effective ways to prevent or improve these menopausal symptoms.

In men, the hormone testosterone begins to decline in their 50s. Just as with women, men can experience significant changes and health concerns during this period of life. Examples include loss of sexual function, weight gain, fatigue, bone loss, anemia, and declining muscle strength. Under the care of a chiropractor, a man experiencing andropause can help offset this change with exercise and dietary changes. A diet that incorporates a heart-healthy foods is the ideal such as the Mediterranean diet which is high in fruit, vegetables, whole grains and fish. There is a significant correlation between good cardiovascular health and improved sexual health.

Aligning yourself with a reputable chiropractor as your partner in healthy aging can provide you with the tools to increase the quality of your life, no matter what phase it may be.