We all have heard about the inevitability of death and taxes and yet there is one other inevitable event, for women anyway. Around the age of 40-50, females have a change taking place in their lives and bodies that is known as menopause. Hormones begin to shift and the levels change, which brings about some exciting and empowering events.

This is a natural phenomenon and it happens as you are no longer able to bear children and move into a bright new time of life. You will begin to experience power surges, great depth of feeling and excess weight.

It certainly doesn’t seem right to have to deal with weight gain in addition to the other effects, but unfortunately, it does happen. When estrogen levels begin to naturally decrease during menopause, it can lead to weight gain.

During menopause, when women are in their mid to late 40s, they typically gain about 10-15 pounds, with a minimum weight gain of 5 pounds in one-third of women. Less than 50% of the women according to the studies maintained their weight throughout the menopausal years due to extreme dieting and determination.

It is important that this weight gain be controlled or prevented because those increased pounds can also increase the risk for many diseases like high blood pressure, stroke, and heart disease. Exercise is a key factor to help maintain proper weight, and females should become involved in both cardiac activities and weight training.

The diet for women who are in the menopausal age range should be packed with nutrients and be well balanced. Even before menopause symptoms occur, women should be eating fresh fruits and vegetables, lean protein, whole grains and calcium containing foods on a daily basis.

Vitamins, minerals, and healthy foods are key ingredients to a healthy future and you will even be able to diminish many menopausal symptoms if you adjust your diet properly.

Things to avoid: alcohol, sugar, processed foods, caffeine, salt, edamame (soybeans).

You will fly right through menopause when you add these healthy foods to your diet and acquire more daily activity. When you are in the second half of your life, you can certainly have some of your best years due to the cumulative experiences you’ve had.

Foods and products for your Diet: Vitamins and supplements that include B-12, Vitamins A, D, C and E, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, fiber, phytoestrogens, and isoflavones; skim or fat-free milk; yogurt; leafy greens like spinach, kale, and broccoli; seafood, especially fish; fresh berries and other fruits.

When you introduce a new healthy diet and exercise routines in your life you can meet the menopause with a bright smile. You may be able to sail through this normal transition if you manage to eliminate or assuage those symptoms. Taking more time to eat healthy whole foods and get more exercise will help you make this new era in your life the best one in your life.