Many women feel that going through Menopause is no less than going through the ‘House of Horrors’. Well, it only is an unsettling journey when you aren’t prepared for it. If you are prepared for it, it can be a pleasant walk in the park, with a few changes in the weather forecast.
Today I want to address a very important issue that many women face during the perimenopausal and menopausal stages, and that is the 'Brain Fog'. Menopause can re-wire the brain and in many ways affect it so much and so far that it starts deteriorating the physical well-being as well. I want to start with explaining what exactly is 'Brain Fog' and how it can be managed through a few lifestyles changes.
What is ‘Brain Fog’?
You know the feeling when you forget something but it's right at the tip of the tongue? Or when you want to say something and then at the very next second you can’t remember what it was? Or when you generally have difficulty in focusing? The answer is ‘Brain Fog’. A study shows that around 60% of middle-aged women have reported difficulty in concentrating and other issues with cognition. This is most prevalent in women going through perimenopause. Scientists believe that the level of estrogen, progesterone as well as androgens contribute to this ‘Brain Fog’. These hormones are essential for the normal functioning of the body hence any modification in the levels of these hormones can influence the body and mind.
Some studies also show that many women in the early stages of menopause may experience more issues with cognition as opposed to women in a later stage of Menopause.
Prevention is better than cure
It’s difficult to prevent ‘Brain Fog’ which is caused due to menopause. However, a few lifestyle changes can ease the symptoms and improve the overall cognitive abilities like memory, learning, and more.
1) Let’s Jump Start the Mind
Like the body, the brain needs to work out as well. My favorite is Sudoku, it jumpstarts my mind and contributes to keeping me organized throughout the day. Similarly doing a puzzle, maybe playing the piano also help lift the fog.
For more details, check out this article on the Importance of Vitamin D in Menopause
2) Let’s Jump Start the Body
Regular physical activity is essential for women going through menopause to keep many menopause symptoms at bay like hot flushes, mood swings, joint pains. Studies have shown that long-term exercise during menopause reduces the decline of Cognitive functions.
3) Rest
Sleep and rest greatly contribute to cognitive functions during menopause. There are 61% of post-menopause women, who have reported insomnia which greatly affects brain health. A few changes like not eating heavy meals close to bedtime and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants may help in inducing rest and proper sleep. Natural remedies like Calmvalera Hevert drops may also help relax the mind and induce sleep as well, Calmvalera is a natural homeopathic remedy made in Germany and is registered through the Ministry of Health (U.A.E.), it is available through pharmacies in the UAE. Ask your doctor if Calmvalera would be a good choice to help you get better sleep.
4) Eat Wise
Diet not only contributes to several bodily functions during menopause, but it can also even help you lift the ‘Brain Fog’. Diet rich in Omega 3 may help brain health and contribute to keeping the mind on track. Try the Bioglan Red Krill, Packed with Omega 3, DHA, and EPA it helps bridge the gap between the diet and the bodily requirements to keep levels optimum. You can also view more Omega 3 Supplements at the end of this article.
Menopause is a phase that is unavoidable for every woman, and along with that comes unpleasant symptoms. ‘Brain Fog’ is one of them, always remember that no matter what you go through, talking about it always will make you feel better. Talk about it to your family, friends and always meet a physician or a counselor. Remember you are not alone, many women are riding the menopause roller coaster with you. It is always good to enjoy this ride rather than dread it. Let’s Talk and break this taboo around Menopause.
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