It’s common to notice shifts in our cognitive abilities like focus, memory recall, and learning capacity as we enter our 40s and on. These changes are often due to hormonal fluctuations, sleep disruptions, mood swings,
Hormonal Impacts on Neurotransmission
During menopause, we experience a decline in estrogen and progesterone levels, which previously maintained optimal conditions for neuronal signalling. As a result, we might observe deficits in attention, executive skills, and navigation abilities due to the impact on neurotransmitter activity.
Sleep Disturbances Affect Brain Restoration
Common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats disrupt our natural sleep patterns. Sleep is crucial for the brain’s restorative processes, and insomnia can leave our brains inadequately rested, impairing our ability to retain and synthesize daily inputs.
Mood Instabilities and Cognitive Performance
Menopausal symptoms can induce psychological stresses that impair cognitive performance. Decreased estrogen levels alter the balance of serotonin, heightening our vulnerability to anxiety and sadness. These mood changes can compound difficulties with concentration and memory recall.
4 Strategies:
Fortunately, we can counteract these aging influences with dedicated mental and physical self-care. Activities like regular brain games, socialization, and continuous learning can help sustain our neural networks. Prioritizing relaxation through methods like meditation, yoga, and humour can reduce stress hormones that cloud our thoughts. Additionally, optimizing sleep, nutrition, and physical fitness bolsters vascular flow, maintaining overall cerebral health.
Feast for the Brain: Load up on brain-boosting superfoods like wild salmon, vibrant berries, crunchy nuts, and leafy wonders. Hydrate!.
Sweat & Shine: Get your heart pumping and blood flowing with small workouts. Dance in your living room, take a brisk walk or do a yoga pose.
Challenge your neurons: Crack puzzles, learn a new language, or pick up a guitar.
Soothe & Snooze: Embrace mindfulness, deep breathing, and sleep.
Consulting Medical Experts at Speak with Penelope
Recognizing when to seek expert advice is key, especially when lifestyle adjustments alone aren’t enough to preserve our cognitive functions during menopause. At Speak with Penelope, we understand that some of us might experience more pronounced cognitive declines. In these instances, reaching out to our team of healthcare professionals is a vital step.
We offer comprehensive treatment plans tailored to your unique needs, encompassing hormone therapy and/or behaviour therapies as necessary. With our support and your proactive approach to wellness, managing these transitions becomes more effective and empowering.
Supporting Research and Resources
Several studies and articles support the idea that lifestyle modifications can bolster brain health during menopause. Notable sources include:
- A narrative review in “Menopause Review” suggests hormonal factors contribute to cognitive decline during menopause.
- A study in “Frontiers in Global Women’s Health” highlights the benefits of psychoeducation, cognitive strategies, and lifestyle changes.
- “Harvard Health” articles discuss the importance of physical activity, brain games, and relaxation techniques for maintaining brain health during menopause.
Citations:
[1] https://www.apa.org/monitor/2023/09/easing-transition-into-menopause
[2] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8394691/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4452809/
[4] https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/menopause-and-memory-know-the-facts-202111032630
[5] https://www.health.harvard.edu/womens-health/dealing-with-the-symptoms-of-menopause
[6] https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fgwh.2021.741539