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We’re genuinely eager to share what we’ve learned about the science of women with all women. We’re forward-thinking, hopeful and believe that for women in menopause knowledge is power and when we all have that knowledge, together we can do some pretty incredible things.
We’re genuinely eager to share what we’ve learned about the science of women with all women. We’re forward-thinking, hopeful and believe that for women in menopause knowledge is power and when we all have that knowledge, together we can do some pretty incredible things.
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Clearing Up Brain Fog During Menopause

Feb 20, 2020

We’ve all done it before, and we’ll all do it again. We walk into a room only to stand there staring at the wall wondering what brought us there in the first place. While this can happen at any age, brain fog during menopause is especially common, and the easiest to joke about. However, it’s not so funny as women say they experience everything from forgetfulness to difficulty concentrating. Over 8,400 women took our menopause survey and we found 66% of women reported experiencing forgetfulness as well.◊ Many of these symptoms are just a natural part of getting older. But because estrogen plays such a powerful role in the body (and the brain), it’s worth giving those memory missteps a second look to see if something bigger could be at play.   We’ve got estrogen on the brain, and so do you Estrogen plays many important roles in the brain. It influences brain function directly by helping regulate cell signaling in the brain and indirectly through its actions on vascular blood flow and circulation.1 This powerful hormone is also involved in other neural activities related to cognitive function and even protects against cell death in some cases.1 Estrogen is associated with protective effects on the brain and loss of estrogen can contribute to brain metabolism deficits, thereby resulting in brain health issues during menopause.2 Despite known actions of estrogen on the brain, the full implications of estrogen loss after menopause and long-term brain health are still unclear.1 Emerging research shows low estrogen levels are associated with cognitive decline as well as increased levels of a specific brain protein involved in Alzheimer’s disease (AD).2 However, clinical findings using estrogen therapies and brain health conditions are mixed, suggesting more information on the various roles of estrogen in brain health pathways are needed. Memory problems are still a concerning symptom during the menopause transition, however, because certain types of “brain fog” may be an early sign of larger health problems such as AD and other forms of dementia.1 Considering that women are nearly twice as likely to develop AD than men, we should be as proactive as possible about our brain health especially during and after menopause.3  Learn more about how estrogen affects your body   A few other things that could be cluttering your mental space Our brain is linked to every other system in our body. If something’s off, our brain will feel it. This phase of life is introducing all kinds of new stressors that play into your overall mental state. Here are a few other symptoms that may also be contributing to your brain fog: Sleep loss can disrupt your brain’s ability to learn or make new memories4 A lack of sleep can make it harder to concentrate and respond quickly4 Some medications can bring on a change in memory as a side effect5 Developing or existing health problems such as anxiety, depression, vitamin deficiencies, heart, and even thyroid diseases may contribute as well5 Mood, physical health, and perceived stress may contribute to some memory symptoms1 There are many factors at play when it comes to brain health. Some symptoms are a normal part of aging while others may be the result of other health-related issues, and some could be cause for concern. Writing down your specific symptoms will help you track your health so if anything seems amiss, you will have tangible points to discuss later with your doctor.    Simple steps to help cut through the brain fog Turns out, several of the most common body and heart health tips may also be helpful for your brain too. Look at it that way, one small change can have a positive impact on all kinds of things. Here are a few fun ways to start: Expand your horizons: Stimulate your brain with new experiences. Learn that language you’ve always wanted to speak, pick up dancing, or just try something new, that you haven’t done before. Recent studies show that creative activities may help improve your memory, comprehension, creativity, and even problem-solving skills.6 Back off on the booze: This tip probably makes it onto every healthy living list, but it applies here as well. Alcohol affects everyone differently as they age. You may not be able to “handle your liquor” the way you used to, leaving you confused or more prone to accidents. Most recommendations define “moderate” drinking for women as one drink on any single given day.7 Diversify your diet: A typical heart-healthy diet can also be good for your brain as well. This includes meals rich in fresh colorful vegetables and fruits, along with nuts, fish, and low-fat dairy products. Your sense of taste can also evolve over time, so if your go-to grub is boring you, maybe try some veggies you swore off years ago or expand your taste buds to try a new kind of whole grain.8 Stay in touch with loved ones: Studies show that consistent contact with loved ones and regular social activities can help reduce some risks to brain health.9 Combine your new hobby with a few friends to tackle two brain health tips in one. Keep your medications in mind: Medication side effects can change over time and even affect cognitive function. Make sure your doctor is aware of everything you’re taking, even natural or over-the-counter products, to ensure a whole-body point of view when it comes to your brain health.10 Bring back your balance: Regular balance and strength exercises can help reduce fall-related injuries that are linked to memory loss or impaired thinking. This is especially important for anyone who’s fallen already, as your chances of falling again actually double after the first fall. Medication can also affect balance, so be sure to check in with your doctor about those.11 Sleep like you never have before: Sleep is important during every phase of life, but often the complexities of our lives prevent us from getting enough of it. There is no time like the present to change that. Poor sleep can affect memory and thought processes, plus cause depressive feelings and accident-prone behaviors.12 Read more about overcoming sleep loss during menopause  Boil it up to blood pressure: High blood pressure can have serious effects on long-term brain health. As you age, your heart and brain can both change, which can result in high blood pressure. Often people won’t be able to tell something’s wrong for years, which is why it’s always a good idea to have regular checkups with your doctor to discuss all the changes that come with menopause and getting older in general.13 Get that heart pumping: Get that heart pumping for 30 minutes every few days, even if it’s something as simple as a nightly walk or playing with the grandkids. If exercise is difficult for you, start small and ask your doctor if there are some activities you haven’t considered. Aerobic exercise is especially good, as it’s directly linked to improving both memory and thinking skills.14 Talk to your doctor: We mention this all the time, but that’s because having regular honest conversations with a trusted practitioner is so important. No question is too small, no symptom too faint. Find somebody you trust and schedule a time to tend to your brain health. Print out our 10 Questions To Ask Your Doctor for your next visit   Key signs that forgetfulness could be more than brain fog There are some characteristics, however, which most clinicians and researchers agree are not normal signs of aging. Any memory problems that start to interfere with daily life activities may be cause for concern; specifically, those that might point toward Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI). MCI is generally thought to be a point along the path to dementia for some people, although not all people with MCI develop dementia. People with MCI experience many of the following symptoms:5  Frequently forgetting appointments or planned events Repeating the same questions and stories Forgetting the names of close friends or family Having difficulty understanding written or verbal information Struggling to complete complex tasks such as paying bills, taking medications, shopping, cooking, household cleaning, or driving People with MCI may also experience anxiety, depression, irritability, aggression, and apathy.15 If you’re concerned your brain fog during menopause might be symptomatic of something else, keep track of your symptoms and schedule a time to chat with your doctor. Brain fog may feel like just another natural part of getting older, and to some extent it is. But these memory problems could also be masking or contributing to other health conditions. Being a woman only further complicates this issue. For example, women may have an advantage over men when it comes to verbal memory later in life—but that advantage can mask the onset effects of Alzheimer’s Disease.16 While there is no simple answer to these complex issues, tending to our symptoms now could help mitigate some problems later. Whether you are years into menopause or just starting down this path, it’s never too late to start thinking about your brain health. ◊Equelle.com online survey of US women (n= 8,401) from Sept 2019 – Feb 2020   References   Henderson, Victor. Cognitive Changes After Menopause: Influence of Estrogen. Clin Obstet Gynecol. 2008; 51(3): 618­–626. Li, R. et al. Sex Differences in Cognitive Impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease. Front Neuroendocrinol. 2014; 35(3): 385­–403. Alzheimer’s Association. 2019 Alzheimer’s disease facts and figures. Alzheimer’s & Dementia. 2019; 15(3): 321–387. National Institutes of Health. “Brain Basics: Understanding Sleep.” 2019. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Understanding-sleep> Cleveland Clinic. “Memory Problems: What is Normal Aging and What Is Not.” 2019. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/11826-memory-problems-what-is-normal-aging-and-what-is-not?view=print What is Brain Health? “Discover a New Talent.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/discover-a-new-talent> What is Brain Health? “Drink Moderately.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/drink-moderately> What is Brain Health? “Eat Up.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/eat-up> What is Brain Health? “Stay Connected.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/stay-connected> What is Brain Health? “Mind Your Meds.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/mind-your-meds> What is Brain Health? “Maintain Your Balance.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/maintain-your-balance> What is Brain Health? “Get Some Shuteye.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/get-some-shuteye> What is Brain Health? “Know Your Blood Pressure.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://brainhealth.nia.nih.gov/engage-your-brain/know-your-blood-pressure> The North American Menopause Society. “Sitting Can Sabotage Your Good Health Habits.” 2020. Accessed on: February 10, 2020. < https://www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/exercise-and-diet/sitting-can-sabotage-your-good-health-habits> Mayo Clinic. “Mild cognitive impairment (MCI).” 2020. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research (MFMER). Accessed on: February 10, 2020. <https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/mild-cognitive-impairment/symptoms-causes/syc-20354578> Jacobs, E. et al. The middle-aged brain: biological sex and sex hormones shape memory circuitry. Current Opinion in Behavioral Sciences. 2018; 23: 84–91.  
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How to Minimize Your Risk of Heart Disease During Menopause

Feb 07, 2020

Heart disease risk increases for everyone as they age, but for women, symptoms can become more evident after the onset of menopause. Not only does a woman’s risk for heart disease increase around the same age she enters natural menopause,1 but heart disease is also the leading cause of death for women in the United States causing 1 out every 5 deaths each year.2 In honor of National Wear Red Day supporting women’s heart health, here are a few important things to know about managing heart health during the menopause transition.   Estrogen’s important role in heart healthWhile a woman is young, estrogen actually protects her against heart disease.1 During menopause, however, some unseen changes begin to occur. Blood vessel walls begin to change which can lead to more plaque build-up, and blood clots. Additionally, fat found within the blood begins to change, which can affect the way it flows through blood vessels.1 Levels of fibrinogen increase (a substance that helps blood clot), which has been linked to strokes and heart disease.1 Estrogen affects nearly every tissue and organ in our bodies, including heart and blood vessels.1 This connection was so well known that hormone replacement therapy was once thought to actually protect women from against heart disease.1 We now know that HRT does not protect women from heart disease, but the logic behind that assumption was founded in respect for the nature of this powerful hormone. Read more surprising facts about estrogen While scientists are still learning about the many effects of estrogen on the body, here is some of what we know about estrogen’s role in our cardiovascular system:1 Increases HDL cholesterol (the good kind)1 Decreases LDL cholesterol (the bad kind)1 Relaxes, smooths, and dilates blood vessels so blood flow increases1 Soaks up free radicals, naturally occurring particles in the blood that can damage the arteries and other tissues1 All of these processes are naturally affected when estrogen begins to decline. LDL levels increase and HDL levels decrease, all of which can lead to fat and cholesterol build-up in the arteries (the signature contributors to strokes and heart attacks).1 There are likely even more ways in which estrogen affects the cardiovascular system that we don’t know about yet. New research leads to more information, but can also lead to more questions.1 While we may not have control over the answers that scientists have yet to uncover, we have the power to listen to our body’s signals and to be as proactive as possible when it comes to managing our heart disease risks. The first step in this is to know our symptoms.   Power begins with knowing your symptomsWomen often exhibit different heart attack symptoms than men do, which can lead to delayed treatment and even a higher death rate.3 Symptoms that require immediate medical attention include, but are not limited to:3 Chest pain Pain in the jaw, arms, back, or neck Extreme fatigue Shortness of breath, nausea, and feeling lightheaded Unusual sweating Upper stomach pain Underlying symptoms may have gone easily unnoticed or dismissed for other problems before, but menopause can exacerbate them. Pay attention to the way your body is changing, even if it’s subtle. Evaluate your risk factors to see if you may be experiencing more symptoms during menopause than meet the eye.    Check in on your risk factorsAge isn’t the only factor when it comes to increased heart disease risk. Younger women who’ve undergone early or surgical menopause also have an increased risk as well.1 Both of these conditions can increase risk when combined with other factors, such as:1 Diabetes and prediabetes3 Smoking High blood pressure Elevated LDL cholesterol Obesity Sedentary lifestyle Unhealthy diet3 Family history of heart disease If you meet any of these and you want to be proactive about protecting your heart as you age, check in with your doctor to start taking active steps to protect your heart.   Start with some steps to reduce your risk factorsNo matter what your risk factors are, there is still a lot you can do now to take control of your future health. Studies show women with the lowest risk of heart disease are those who:1 Quit or avoid smoking1 Do aerobic exercise 3–5 times a week for 30–40 minutes each1 Keep a diet low in saturated fat (<7% daily amount) and in trans-fats, but high in Omega 3 fats found in fish and other seafood1 Follow a diet that’s high in fiber, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, fruits, fish and folate-rich foods1 Treat and control medical conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure (all of which are known heart disease risk factors for heart disease)1 Regular exercise and good nutrition seem to be the most common tips when it comes to avoiding heart disease. Aerobic exercises can include activities like walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing.4 Good nutrition emphasizes fruits, veggies, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, poultry, fish, and nuts (but limits red meat plus most sugary foods and beverages).4 Surround yourself with loved ones who cheer you on and support you, and tackle any changes you make one day at a time.   Stay educated and in touch with your bodyYour doctor should be able to do regular screenings to test your blood pressure, cholesterol, and weight which can all help to assess your risk.3 These consistent checkups are important even if you don’t have any symptoms. These updates can help us stay informed and ultimately decide for ourselves which steps to take when it comes to managing our lifestyle and habits. It all starts with education, and if you’ve made it to the end of this blog post you’re already well on your way toward that!   References Cleveland Clinic. “Estrogen & Hormones.” 2019. Cleveland Clinic. Accessed on: January 28, 2020. <https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/articles/16979-estrogen--hormones> Center for Disease Control and Prevention. “Heart Disease: Women and Heart Disease.” 2019. U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. Accessed on: January 28, 2020. <https://www.cdc.gov/heartdisease/women.htm> The North American Menopause Society. “Keeping Your Heart Healthy at Menopause.” 2020. Accessed on: January 28, 2020. <https://www.menopause.org/for-women/menopauseflashes/bone-health-and-heart-health/keeping-your-heart-healthy-at-menopause> American Heart Association. “Menopause and Heart Disease.” 2015. Accessed on: January 28, 2020. <https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/consumer-healthcare/what-is-cardiovascular-disease/menopause-and-heart-disease>
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