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Hi - I'm 53 and consider myself in overall good health. For approximately 28 years, I was on the lowest dosage of the birth control pill and later switched to Seasonal (which was great by the way) and then finally stopped getting my period altogether (over 2 years ago). Additional medications include 40 mg. of Nexium for GERD for several years now as well as 100 mg/day of the generic version of Zoloft for low-grade depression. Had a colonoscopy and blood tests over the years with clear results- no cysts, no heart problems, and no diabetes. Off and on I've battled with my weight - At this point the belly fat is due to mainly being on the computer. Now stumbling out of my denial of menopause and having just this year been fired from my job I need to get my short-term memory, my focus, and my weight in check in order to gain new employment with health benefits. Can you recommend what affordable options there are? Some supplements have helped with my minor hot flashes, but haven't helped with my short-term memory -feels like I've recently developed attention deficit. As a result, I'm also more depressed and generally insecure.
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Jill2 - It sounds like you have a couple of issues going here, one is wanting information on treatments for menopause symptoms, and the other is short-term memory loss which may, or may not be related since hormones have such a tremendous impact on our bodies and brains.
In terms of menopause treatments, we have several articles on natural and alternative treatments, here are a couple. https://www.empowher.com/menopause/content/alternative-treatments-hormone-therapy
https://www.empowher.com/menopause/content/alternative-ways-deal-menopause-symptoms
You will find more information in our menopause section which is at https://www.empowher.com/condition/menopause/definition
In terms of the short-term memory loss, you may want to consider discussing this with your healthcare provider on your next visit if this is an occasional problem. If this is a daily problem it would be best to be seen soon. In addition, take a look at some of the other factors in your life that could be affecting this.
How is your diet, in particular you intake of vitamin B12?
B12 can be found in liver, wild salmon and eating organic eggs, chicken and cheese can give you a good supply. Raw cow's milk is another source.
How much sleep are you getting?
Most adults need an average of 7-8 hours of sleep every night. If you are getting less than that, it's very common to suffer memory loss as well as anxiety.
Have you had your thyroid checked?
A less than optimal thyroid can cause memory loss. Have your levels checked - it starts with a simple blood test.
Is your blood sugar normal?
If not, again this can trigger problems with memory
In the meantime, there are ways to improve memory. Crosswords, Sudoku and puzzles help with memory, as do board games. Taking some night classes in a subject you enjoy or find challenging keeps your brain working, as does physical exercise and an active and busy social life. Read and learn about a subject you don't know much about, in order to exercise your brain.
Many foods are believed to be good for memory, including the following:
1. Green leafy vegetables, spinach, cabbage, lettuce
2. Broccoli and cauliflower
3. Fruit juice, fruit
4. Various kinds of berries, pomegranates
5. Nuts
6. Fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, mackerel
7. Olive oil and other vegetable oils
Let us know if this helps, and good luck to you.
June 30, 2010 - 6:29pmThis Comment