FORTIES - THE PERIMENOPAUSE
The lead up to the menopause can be a tricky time.
Perimenopause is the phase before menopause actually takes place and normally
lasts between 3 - 4 years. During this phase, hormone production begins to
decline and fluctuate.
Declining oestrogen levels mean skin becomes thinner with
more pronounced wrinkles such as those on the upper lip. Loss of collagen and
elastin combined with reduced volume (subcutaneous fat) and bone shrinkage
results in loss of structural integrity and the face literally sliding south.
The severity of these symptoms will depend on UV exposure from childhood,
genetics, lifestyle as well as medication which will each have an impact on the
quality of skin.
The hormones that help regulate the sebaceous glands, such
as oestrogen also start to decline, leading to stubborn breakouts or acne in
some women. This is further aggravated by the slowing-down of the skins cell
renewal process in more mature skin. As excess skin cells build
up, blocked pores already clogged with sebum, are further
irritated causing inflammation.
STEPS TO TAKE
Balance from within
Look at your diet. Balance blood sugar levels with a
combination of vegetables, wholegrains with lean protein foods including meat,
fish, eggs, nuts, lentils and fibre. Cut down on caffeine, sugar and alcohol.
Smoking is a no no.
Get physical
The decrease of hormonal levels means increased risk of
osteoporosis so keep moving with daily exercise such as walking daily for at
least 30 minutes. Building in weight bearing exercise is essential to help
strengthen bones. Exercise is also great for beating depression and anxiety and
boosting your libido.
Supplement your diet
Introduce a good multivitamin to ensure
appropriate levels of magnesium, vitamin D to channel calcium to the core of
the bones and ensure daily essential Omega 3 to help With dry skin, low mood
and depression.
Next in the series: Fifties - Skin and the Menopause
Source: IIA Bulletin March 2018
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