Have you been forgetting the names of people or objects lately? Do you find yourself asking the same question several times? Are you concerned about your memory? A recent study published in the Public Library of Science (PLOS) suggests that menopause is associated with brain changes that may increase the risk for Alzheimer’s disease (AD).
According to this study, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women showed lower brain metabolism compared to premenopausal women in the same parts of the brain.
These findings suggest that aging inside the brain starts several years or even decades before possible clinical symptoms show up. This study was published on Oct. 10, 2017, in PLOS One.
“Our findings show that the loss of estrogen in menopause doesn’t just diminish fertility,” said Lisa Mosconi, PhD, associate director of the Alzheimer’s Prevention Clinic at Weill Cornell Medicine, in New York City. “This study suggests there may be a critical window of opportunity, when women are in their 40s and 50s, to detect metabolic signs of higher Alzheimer’s risk and apply strategies to reduce that risk.”
Advanced age is the first and most important risk factor for developing AD. Being a woman is the second most important risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease.
The finding from this study suggests that estrogen plays a major role in the development of AD.
There has been so much controversy around the usage of hormones in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. When choosing a treatment option, you and your healthcare provider should consider the risks and benefits of using hormone replacement therapy (HRT). For more information about your options in HRT, please contact Dr. Sharzad Green, Pharm.D.
In addition to hormones, there are supplements that may be beneficial for your brain health. Choosing the best supplement can be quite tricky. With so many choices, advertising gimmicks and claims, it is essential to talk to an expert who can guide and advise you based on your particular needs. Call Dr. Green to discuss your Fish Oil, Calcium and Vitamin D, as well as natural alternatives to lower your cholesterol and more.
Dr. Green is the creator of FabuVag, an all-natural, non-hormonal vaginal moisturizer. She developed this product for women who cannot or do not wish to use hormones to address vaginal discomfort. To contact Dr. Green, or to learn more about vaginal dryness and place an order for FabuVag, call (480) 264-7600, or go to naturalvaginalsolutions.com.