Embracing the journey of life means accepting that our bodies change as we age. After the age of 35, both women and men experience various transformations that can impact our overall well-being. There are so many horror stories of what will happen to us, but it’s not all true! Age isn’t the only factor that affects how we age.
In this blog post, we will focus on the truth about changes that occur in our bodies, with a particular emphasis on women’s hormonal shifts, cortisol levels, collagen production, and muscle and bone loss. By understanding these changes, we can proactively take steps to maintain a vibrant and healthy lifestyle. So, let’s dive in!
Hormonal Shifts
Our bodies are intricately connected to our menstrual cycles and designed for the possibility of pregnancy. As we age, our periods become less frequent and eventually halt, leading to hormonal shifts.
During this phase, we may produce less progesterone and more estrogen. These changes can affect various aspects of our lives, including libido and mood swings. It’s important to remember that each person’s experience is unique, and while some may breeze through this transition, others may face more challenges. Understanding and accepting these changes is the first step towards managing them effectively.
The Cortisol Connection
Cortisol, often referred to as the “stress hormone,” plays a crucial role in our body’s response to daily stressors. It affects our hormones, blood sugar levels, mood, and even how our body processes the food we consume.
Our cortisol levels can fluctuate as we age, which may impact our overall health and well-being. High cortisol levels can contribute to weight gain, sleep disturbances, and increased risk of chronic conditions.
On the other hand, low cortisol levels can lead to fatigue and a lack of energy. Finding healthy ways to manage stress, such as engaging in relaxation techniques, exercise, and self-care practices, can help regulate cortisol levels and support healthy aging.
Understanding the Role of Collagen
Collagen, a protein that gives our skin elasticity and strength, gradually declines as we age. This reduction can affect the appearance and health of our skin, hair, and nails. Skin may become less firm, wrinkles may appear, and hair and nails may become brittle.
While these changes are a natural part of the aging process, there are steps we can take to support collagen production.
Nourishing our bodies with a healthy diet rich in protein, antioxidants, and vitamins can contribute to maintaining youthful radiance. Additionally, skincare routines that include moisturizing, sun protection, and the use of collagen-boosting products can help promote healthy skin.
Muscle and Bone Loss
As we age, our bodies undergo muscle and bone loss, which can increase the risk of conditions like osteoporosis and muscle weakness.
However, through appropriate strength training and a balanced diet, we can help combat these effects. Engaging in regular exercise that includes resistance training, weight-bearing exercises, and flexibility routines can help maintain muscle mass, improve bone density, and support overall physical function.
Proper nutrition, including adequate protein intake and mineral supplements like calcium and vitamin D, can further support healthy muscles and bones.
Understanding the Impact of Slowing Metabolism
As we age, one significant change that many individuals experience is a gradual slowdown of the metabolism. Metabolism refers to the processes by which our bodies convert food and nutrients into energy. When our metabolism slows down, it can affect various aspects of our health.
Weight Gain
A slower metabolism can contribute to weight gain or make it more challenging to maintain a healthy weight. With a reduced metabolic rate, our bodies burn calories at a slower pace, making it easier to accumulate excess body fat. It’s important to adapt our eating habits and exercise routines to accommodate this change.
Choosing nutrient-dense foods and engaging in regular physical activity, such as cardiovascular exercise and strength training, can help maintain a healthy weight and support overall well-being.
Hair Loss and Hormonal Change
As our metabolism slows down with age, hormonal imbalances can occur, affecting our bodies’ delicate balance of estrogen and progesterone. These hormonal fluctuations can disrupt the natural growth cycle of hair follicles, leading to thinning or excessive shedding.
Additionally, reduced circulation to the scalp, which can be a consequence of a slower metabolism, can further contribute to hair loss. Understanding the connection between metabolism, hormonal changes, and hair health is essential in addressing and managing these concerns.
A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, such as iron, biotin, and zinc, can provide nourishment to the hair follicles. Additionally, gentle hair care practices, avoiding excessive heat or chemical treatments, and managing stress can contribute to maintaining healthy and vibrant hair.
Remember that each person’s experience is unique, and seeking professional guidance can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and concerns.
Combining Lifestyle Choices for Optimal Well-being
Unfortunately, we can’t stop the aging process altogether, but we can take steps to age gracefully! Taking a holistic approach is key to navigating the changes that come with aging. By combining various lifestyle choices, we can support our bodies and embrace the journey ahead.
As I mentioned earlier, this includes adopting stress management techniques, engaging in regular physical activity, prioritizing a balanced diet, and considering the use of mineral supplements. Remember to approach these changes with kindness and patience, celebrating the wisdom and experiences that come with each passing year.
For a more in-depth discussion on this topic and recommendations for my favorite supplements, tune into my latest podcast. Together, let’s embrace the beauty of aging and live our best lives.
Hey there, I’m Kari!
As a Pharmacist and Integrative Health Practitioner, I get the privilege of working with women who are struggling with fatigue, poor sleep, painful cycles, digestive issues, and irritability- all of which have become their norm. And they are struggling just to keep up, simply wanting their health back.
I know what it’s like to feel frustrated and left with the same issues, even after spending time, energy & money thinking I’d found the answer.
With the right support, a proven method, and the Lord as our guide, let’s get your health back so you can run the race set before you with perseverance and joy.
So thankful you found your way here!
