Menopause will affect all women at some point in their life (usually starting in your 40s with peri-menopause), and since I get asked so often about this topic, I wanted to share some of the more surprising signs of menopause women may encounter. The more we share, the better we can navigate this part of life... and enjoy it more, too! Before we dive in, talk with your doctor about any health concerns you may have, menopause related or not. Proactive health screenings and checkups are important in managing health as we reach and surpass age 50! 

5 Surprising Signs Of Menopause

1) Dry Mouth. Menopause leads to a decline in estrogen, which can result in reduced saliva and a dry mouth. This can unfortunately lead to gum disease, as there is less saliva present to wash away bacteria in the mouth. You can help to counteract this by regularly brushing and gently flossing, and sipping on water throughout the day to help keep your mouth moistened. 

2) Heart Burn. Also known as acid reflux, heartburn is often caused by spicy foods, alcohol, stress and being overweight... and also by fluctuating estrogen levels, which can alter the amount of acid the stomach produces. If you experience the unpleasantness of heartburn (a burning in the chest and throat), talk with your doctor about remedies, and consider keeping a food diary to help pinpoint what foods may be contributing to it.

3) Cold Flashes. We've all heard about hot flashes, but cold flashes are a thing, too! The hormonal changes that menopause brings affects our hypothalamus (the part of the brain that regulates body temperature), which can lead to both hot and cold flashes. These cold flashes - think shivering or feeling chilled - can be experienced on their own, or after a hot flash. If you do experience hot and/or cold flashes, try dressing in light layers so you can remove or add a layer as needed.

4) Menopause Belly. While this one may be more familiar to you, I wanted to include it because so many women ask me about how to address the mid-section weight gain many of us experience at menopause. If you have menopause belly, try my tips and targeted workouts that can help to keep your core strong and healthy!

5) Dry and Itchy Skin. Since our ovaries are producing less estrogen, our skin becomes less elastic and more tight and itchy. Luckily this one has an easy solution: Moisturize, moisturize, moisturize! Go for a thick lotion, and consider one with hyaluronic acid to help plump and smooth the skin. I also like to dry brush and use coconut oil straight from the jar after I take a shower, to help lock in moisture!

I hope these insights and suggestions help you navigate what can - and should - be a wonderful time in your life. Life after 50 is AMAZING, and so are you!

Let's live FIT, HAPPY and HEALTHY - together!

Denise