Menopause and the Brain: What's Going on Up There
Brain Fog, Memory and More
Let's dive into the wild world of menopause and how it shakes up our brains! Sure, hot flashes and night sweats get all the attention, but there's a whole lot more happening up there.
Estrogen, that brain booster we love, plays a key role in keeping our minds sharp. It's the glue that connects our brain cells, makes them chat with each other, and even boosts memory, attention, and mood. Plus, it ensures healthy blood flow to our brains for overall cognitive well-being.
Now, it's no surprise that our brains go through some changes during this menopause journey. Estrogen levels go on a wild ride - they're erratic, nosedive, and finally flatline.
According to the Morphus’ Signs & Symptoms Survey Results, June 2023, among the top ten menopause symptoms, five are related to the brain. That's right, our brains are at the center of this journey!
Let's break it down:
1. Brain Fog - Ever feel like you're lost in a mental haze, where thoughts are wrapped in a cloud? Estrogen's got a big role in keeping our brains sharp, and when it takes a nosedive, so does our mental clarity.
2. Memory Loss & Forgetfulness - Car keys? What car keys? Declining estrogen messes with our memory consolidation, leaving us searching for lost things.
3. Anxiety - Oh, hello worry, panic and more! Menopause can crank up anxiety and depression rates. We can point fingers at hormonal fluctuations messing with our happy chemicals, like serotonin and dopamine.
4. Lack of Concentration & 5. Lack of Focus - Zoning out during important talks? You guessed it, estrogen's to blame! It's essential for keeping our neural connections in check, helping our brain cells chat and supporting those cognitive superpowers like attention and focus.
But hold on, it's not all doom and gloom! Understanding how menopause affects our brains can help us navigate this phase with a bit more ease. Don't hesitate to seek expert advice and consider lifestyle changes like nourishing foods, supplements, quality sleep, and plenty of exercise to support your brain and overall well-being during this rollercoaster ride. You got this!
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