5 menopause symptoms no one tells you about

5 menopause symptoms no one tells you about

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's menstrual cycles.

While many people are familiar with common symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings, there are some lesser-known signs of menopause and perimenopause that women should be aware of too.

Understanding these unknown signs can help individuals better navigate this transitional phase in their lives.

Join Zing Wellbeing health program to access the menopause meal plan helping hundreds of women improve their health and wellbeing during this stage of their life. 

1. Changes in Body Odour

One lesser-known sign of menopause is changes in body odour. Hormonal fluctuations during menopause can lead to an increase in sweat production, which can result in changes in body odour. Women may notice that they sweat more than usual or that their sweat has a different smell. This can be attributed to the hormonal changes that occur during menopause.

Here are some effective tips to help combat the nasty odour:

Antiperspirants: Use strong clinical-strength antiperspirants that contain aluminum chloride to reduce sweating.

Regular Showering: Shower daily using antibacterial soap to reduce bacteria on the skin that can contribute to odor.

Natural Remedies:

Baking Soda: It can absorb moisture and neutralize odour.
Apple Cider Vinegar: Diluted with water, it can be applied to areas prone to odour to balance skin pH.

Wear Breathable Fabrics: Choose natural fibers like cotton, linen, or moisture-wicking materials to help keep skin dry.

Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and reduce odour.

Dietary Changes: Some foods (like garlic, onions, and spicy foods) can contribute to body odour. A balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help.

Check out the menopause meal plan HERE to help you with correct diet.



Hormone Therapy: Discuss hormone replacement therapy with your doctor if hot flashes and sweating are severe.

Regular Laundry: Change clothes frequently and wash them regularly to remove any odour-causing bacteria.

Foot Care: If foot odour is an issue, keep feet clean and dry, and consider using foot powder.

Consult a Professional: If body odour persists despite these measures, consult a healthcare provider to rule out other medical conditions. 

2. Increased Allergies

Menopause can also impact the immune system, leading to an increase in allergies for some women.

Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the body's immune response, making women more susceptible to allergic reactions. This can manifest as new allergies or an exacerbation of existing allergies.

Here are some tips to help you cope:

Consult an Allergist: Get tested for specific allergens to better understand what triggers your symptoms and discuss treatment options.

Medication:

Antihistamines: Over-the-counter options like loratadine or cetirizine can help alleviate allergy symptoms.
Nasal Sprays: Corticosteroid nasal sprays can reduce inflammation and help with nasal congestion.

Manage Indoor Allergens:

Dust and Vacuum Regularly: Use HEPA filters in your vacuum and change bedding frequently.
Air Purifiers: Consider using HEPA air purifiers to reduce airborne allergens.

Outdoor Allergens:
Limit Exposure: Stay indoors during high pollen counts, and shower and change clothes after being outside.
Nasal Filters: These can help filter out pollen and other allergens when you're outdoors.

Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids to help thin mucus and keep your airways clear.

Healthy Diet: A diet rich in antioxidants (fruits, vegetables, whole grains) can support overall immune health. Check out the Zing Wellbeing menopause meal plan.

Avoid Triggers: Identify and avoid known allergens, whether they are specific foods, environmental factors, or pet dander.

Consider Supplements: Some supplements, like quercetin or omega-3 fatty acids, may help support your immune system, but consult your doctor before starting any new supplements.

Mindfulness and Stress Management: Stress can exacerbate allergy symptoms, so practices like yoga or meditation may help. (Join the Zing Wellbeing health program to access all these classes for FREE!) 

Hormonal Balance: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether hormone therapy could help manage both menopause symptoms and allergies.

3. Hair Loss

While many people associate hair loss with aging in men, women going through menopause may also experience hair thinning or loss. The hormonal changes that occur during menopause can affect the hair growth cycle, leading to changes in hair texture and volume.

Women may notice that their hair is not as thick as it used to be or that they are shedding more hair than usual.

Here are some tips to help manage and treat thinning hair:

Consult a Doctor: Start by discussing your symptoms with a healthcare provider. They can rule out other causes and recommend appropriate treatments.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): For some women, HRT can help alleviate menopause symptoms, including hair thinning.

Topical Treatments: Over-the-counter products can promote hair growth and thickness.

Nutrition: A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals can support hair health. Check out the Zing Wellbeing menopause meal plan.

Focus on:

  • Protein: Eggs, fish, beans
  • Iron: Leafy greens, red meat
  • Vitamins: Biotin, Vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids

To get more protein you can also try our organic protein powder

Supplements: Consider biotin or other hair growth supplements after consulting your doctor.

Gentle Hair Care: Avoid harsh treatments and styles that stress your hair. Use mild shampoos and conditioners.

Scalp Massage: Regularly massaging your scalp can increase blood flow and may promote hair growth.

Stress Management: Practices like yoga, meditation, or deep-breathing exercises can help manage stress, which may contribute to hair loss. (Join the Zing Wellbeing health program to access all these classes for FREE!) 

Hairstyles: Opt for styles that make hair appear fuller, such as layers or a shorter cut.

4. Joint Pain

Joint pain is another common sign of menopause that some women may experience. The hormonal fluctuations during menopause can affect the joints, leading to increased stiffness, pain, and inflammation. Women may notice that they have achy joints or that certain activities that were once easy now cause discomfort.

Here are some tips to help manage and alleviate joint pain:

Consult a Healthcare Provider: Speak with your doctor to determine the underlying causes of your joint pain and discuss treatment options.

Exercise Regularly: Engage in low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling to strengthen muscles around the joints and improve flexibility.

(Join the Zing Wellbeing health program to access exercises and strength training classes for FREE!) 

Strength Training: Incorporate strength training exercises to support joint stability and overall strength. 

Maintain a Healthy Weight: Reducing excess weight can lessen stress on your joints, particularly weight-bearing ones like the knees and hips.

Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide tailored exercises and techniques to help relieve pain and improve mobility.

Heat and Cold Therapy:

Heat: Use heating pads or warm baths to relax muscles and alleviate stiffness.
Cold: Ice packs can help reduce swelling and numb pain.

Pain Relief Medications: Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may provide relief.

Supplements: Some people find relief with glucosamine, chondroitin, or omega-3 fatty acids, but consult your doctor before starting any supplements.

Diet: An anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats (like olive oil and fish) can help manage joint pain.

The Zing Wellbeing anti-inflammatory meal plan us full of health and nutritious ingredients. 



Hydration: Drink plenty of water to help keep joints lubricated.

Mindfulness and Stress Management: Techniques like yoga, meditation, or tai chi can help manage pain and improve overall well-being. (Join the Zing Wellbeing health program to access all these classes for FREE!) 

Consider Hormone Therapy: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether hormone replacement therapy may help alleviate both menopause symptoms and joint pain.

5. Digestive Issues

Menopause can also impact the digestive system, causing symptoms such as bloating, gas, and indigestion. Hormonal changes during menopause can affect the gut microbiome, leading to changes in digestion.

Women may experience new digestive issues or find that certain foods trigger discomfort during menopause.

While these uncommon signs of menopause may not be as widely recognized as hot flashes or night sweats, they can still have a significant impact on a woman's quality of life during this transitional phase.

By being aware of these lesser-known symptoms, women can better understand their bodies and seek appropriate support and treatment as needed.

Here are some tips to help manage your issues:

Consult a Healthcare Provider: Speak with your doctor to identify specific digestive issues and rule out other conditions.

Dietary Changes:

High-Fibre Foods: Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to promote regular bowel movements.

Zing Wellbeing meal plans are packed with fibre and all healthy ingredients to support your gut and overall health and our 28 Day Gut Health Plan is amazing for digestion

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and prevent constipation.

Limit Processed Foods: Reduce intake of sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods that can exacerbate digestive issues.

Probiotics: Incorporate probiotic-rich foods (like yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut) or consider a probiotic supplement to support gut health.

Eat Smaller Meals: Instead of large meals, try eating smaller, more frequent meals to ease digestive discomfort.

Mindful Eating: Focus on eating slowly and chewing your food thoroughly to aid digestion.

Manage Stress: Stress can impact digestion, so practices like yoga, meditation, or deep breathing can help. (Join the Zing Wellbeing health program to access all these classes for FREE!) 

Regular Exercise: Physical activity can stimulate digestion and alleviate symptoms like bloating and constipation.

Monitor Food Triggers: Keep a food diary to identify any specific foods that may exacerbate your digestive issues.

Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can irritate the digestive system and may worsen symptoms.

Over-the-Counter Remedies: Antacids, fiber supplements, or medications for gas and bloating can provide temporary relief, but consult your doctor before starting any new medications.

Consider Hormone Therapy: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether hormone replacement therapy may help alleviate digestive symptoms associated with menopause.

Regular Check-Ups: Ongoing communication with your healthcare provider can help address digestive issues as they arise.

 

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