Health Tip: Stay Healthy After Menopause

(HealthDay News) -- Menopause usually starts around age 51 but can begin as early as 30 or as late as the mid-50s.

During menopause, estrogen decreases, which can lead to many changes in your body.

You may find it harder to fall asleep, or stay asleep. You may be irritable. You may find yourself gaining weight around your waist that is impossible to lose. You may have "hot flashes," a warm feeling that spreads up your neck and face.

To stay healthy during this time, the U.S. National Institutes of Health''s National Institute on Aging recommends you:

• Eat a healthy diet, with lots of fruits and vegetables.
• Don''t smoke.
• Make sure you get enough calcium and Vitamin D.
• Learn what your healthy weight is, and try to stay there.
• Do weight-bearing exercises.

-- Deborah DiSesa Hirsch

Last Updated: Feb. 6, 2006