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Dealing with Menopause and Hypertension

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Menopause related image Photo: Getty Images

Out of the 64 million Americans who have developed heart disease, what is shocking is that we as women make up about 54 percent of this group. This staggering fact is no doubt the reason behind the mission of medical entities who’ve taken a serious role in educating the public that heart disease is the leading cause of death in women. So what does heart disease have to do with hypertension and menopause?

Heart problems cannot be improved if risk factors are not modified such as hypertension. Going even further to the root of the problem, obesity and lack of exercise are considered major reasons for hypertension. As we age, we tend to slow down, which is probably one reason menopausal women begin the have problems with hypertension in the first place.

For many, this risk factor can be changed with effort. It will definitely take some lifestyle changes. For instance, we need to stay active around this time. Exercise is the key. Work your way up to 30 to 60 minutes on most days. Be sure to develop a good healthy way of eating. Slowly incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains and low-fat dairy products. This means weeding out excessive junk foods. Cut back on salt and alcohol if these two are a problem. Lastly, why bother trying to fit into your high school jeans? Set a reasonable weight goal and take it slow.

Resource:
Ways to Avoid Blood Pressure Increase at Menopause
http://www.mayoclinic.org/news2008-mchi/4926.html
Mayoclinic.com

Menopause and Hypertension
http://www.mainlinehealth.org/oth/Page.asp?PageID=OTH001787
Main Line Health

Reviewed June 17, 2011
Edited by Alison Stanton

Dita Faulkner is a freelance writer who loves to blog at: http://redtoenails.wordpress.com/.

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Dita Faulkner
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We value and respect our HERWriters' experiences, but everyone is different. Many of our writers are speaking from personal experience, and what's worked for them may not work for you. Their articles are not a substitute for medical advice, although we hope you can gain knowledge from their insight.

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