Hot flashes are among the most common symptoms associated with the changing hormonal balances during menopause.  These sudden feelings of intense heat accompanied by sweating and rapid heartbeat can last from 2 - 30 minutes... they are not over in a 'flash'. Women experience disrupted sleep, work, and social activities, and may feel more anxious or depressed.  Women with higher body mass index (BMI) report more frequent or severe hot flashes compared to women with lower BMI.  A 2010 clinical study showed that overweight or obese women can benefit from behavioral weight loss efforts to decrease the burden of their menopausal symptoms.   Many problems associated with aging are significantly improved or eliminated when extra pounds are shed.  Avoiding Type II Diabetes, back and joint pain, heart disease and stroke are some additional health incentives to keep in mind as you embrace a healthy lifestyle and gradually lose weight through eating well and regular exercise.

Feeling glum? It’s time to lift your energy and re-enliven your spirit and we’ve got some great tips to help you do just that! When it comes to boosting the mood by harnessing your body’s natural resources, here’s how you can stabilize your mood stat.

1.) Watch the amount and type of carbs you eat. To avoid the carb coma and crash, prepare whole grain and whole wheat based products which are full of fiber. Avoid: Processed white bread/ rice/pasta. Limit: Juice- High in carbs and cause a sugar rush.  

2.) Eat fat!! Omega-3 fatty acids (found in salmon, tuna, halibut, algae, and nut oils) increases gray matter in the brain- associated with mood & controlling insulin levels.