The Good, the Bad and the Unknown of the Menopausal Brain
Oct 3, 2023
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Learn about the brain remodeling and rewiring during menopause. Discover the positive aspects of this phase and how to prepare for it. Explore the possible connection between menopause and Alzheimer's. Embrace menopause as a learning experience and challenge negative connotations. Find out about the benefits of aerobic exercise and potential hormone usage in achieving balance in the postmenopausal brain.
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Quick takeaways
Menopause is a unique stage of life that brings about resilience and increased empathy, as the brain undergoes rewiring and remodeling during this time.
Menopause is a critical factor in understanding why women are more prone to Alzheimer's disease, as the decline in estrogen during this phase can lead to the production of proteins associated with Alzheimer's.
Deep dives
Understanding Menopause and Brain Changes
Menopause is a natural transition in a woman's life that involves significant changes in the brain. These changes are triggered by a drop in estrogen levels and can lead to symptoms such as hot flashes, fatigue, trouble sleeping, and brain fog. However, research shows that menopause is not solely negative. It is a unique stage of life that brings about resilience and increased empathy. The brain undergoes rewiring and remodeling during menopause, which can have long-lasting positive effects. Additionally, menopause is a vital time for women to embrace their role as wise individuals who can contribute to society in meaningful ways.
The Link Between Menopause and Alzheimer's
Menopause is also a critical factor in understanding why women are more prone to Alzheimer's disease. Studies have shown that the decline in estrogen during menopause can lead to the production of proteins associated with Alzheimer's. This new understanding challenges the previous notion that women's higher risk of Alzheimer's was solely due to their longer lifespan. Research on menopause and its connection to Alzheimer's is still in its early stages, but it holds promise for uncovering new insights and potential interventions.
Empowering Women in Menopause
There is a need to prioritize research and funding for menopause-related studies, as women's health has historically been overlooked and underfunded. Shifting the perspective on menopause from a negative stigma to a time of resilience and growth is crucial. By understanding the benefits of menopause, such as increased empathy and wisdom, women can approach this stage of life with confidence and embrace the opportunities it brings. Taking care of physical and mental health through lifestyle changes, hormone treatments, and regular exercise can also contribute to a smoother transition through menopause.
What happens in the brain during menopause? As it turns out, the brain gets remodeled, and even rewired, during that very specific time of life. And, while menopause often includes symptoms like hot flashes, brain fog, and mood swings... you may be surprised to learn it’s not all bad! On this episode of Chasing Life, Dr. Sanjay Gupta learns from neuroscientist Dr. Lisa Mosconi that there are upsides to this biological phase natural to half the human population. Plus, ways female-identifying people can prepare for it, and a possible link between menopause and Alzheimer’s.
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