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What’s your percent of body fat?

As we get older our body fat percentile changes.  Body fat percentile provides the most accurate estimate of body composition and is an indication of the percent of your body that is made of fat.

Normal body fat percent for women is 20 to 30.

In women, below 17 is extreme low body fat; between 30 to 33, high body fat; and above 34, extremely high body fat or obese.

The recommended healthy body fat percentiles increase slightly with age.

Body Fat Standards for Women Recommended by Age Group

20 to 29 30 to 39 40 to 49 50 to 59 69+
Very low <16 <17 <18 <19 <20
Low 16-19 17-20 18-21 19-22 20-23
Optimal 20-28 21-29 22-30 23-31 24-32
Moderately high 29-31 30-32 31-33 32-33 33-35
High >31 >32 >33 >34 >35

Do you have a healthy percent of body fat?

Body Fat Percentage calculator, click here.

Posted in fitness

Turkey Chili

This is my all-time favorite chili recipe. The good news is that chili is not only comfort food, but it can be healthy, too!

Chili contains lots of protein. This recipe is made with turkey, so it is a leaner alternative to ground beef. Chili can help you lose weight. The “capsaicin,” a colorless compound found in the chilies used to season this dish, can increase your metabolic rate by increasing your body heat production. Chili is also high in iron thanks to the turkey and beans and has vitamin C thanks to the tomatoes, peppers and chilies. Plus, it’s a great source of fiber that helps keep you feeling full for a long time after eating. Enjoy the healthy benefits of chili!

8-10 servings
prep time = 30 minutes

Ingredients
2 medium onions, chopped (1 cup)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic
1 medium red bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
1 medium green bell pepper, chopped (1 cup)
2 pounds ground turkey
2 tablespoons ground cumin
1 tablespoon dried oregano leaves
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 can (4 ounces) chopped green chilies, drained
2 jalapeño chilies, seeded and chopped
28-oz. can of whole Roma (plum) tomatoes
3 cups water for thick meaty chili, or 4 cups for “soupier” chili
2 cans (15 ounces) black beans, drained
1 can (15 to 16 ounces) kidney beans, drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Sweet onions, sliced
Low-fat sour cream

Directions
-Cook the onions in vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until the onions are tender.
-Add garlic and the green and red bell peppers, cook 2 to 3 minutes.
-Add turkey and cook 3 to 4 minutes or until the turkey is no longer pink.
-Add cumin, oregano, chili powder, green chilies, jalapeño chilies, tomatoes and water. Reduce heat to low.
-Cover and simmer about 30 minutes.
-Add beans; simmer 15 to 20 minutes longer. I simmer for a total of 2 hours for a rich flavor.
-To serve, add sliced sweet onions to the top and a dab of low-fat sour cream.

If you want to make this recipe spicy, add one whole red habeñero or one whole serrano chili (deveined, deseeded and chopped). Or if you like a Tex-Mex flavor, add an envelope of taco seasoning as you simmer this recipe.

Calories 175
Protein 15 grams
Carbs 13 grams
Fat 6 grams
Fiber 5 grams

 

By Staness Jonekos, The Menopause Makeover

Posted in recipes, dinner, homepage, lunch

Perimenopausal Depression

Are you suffering from hot flashes, night sweats, or cranky moods? Feeling hopeless, apprehensive, or deep sadness for prolonged periods? If so, you may be suffering from perimenopausal depression.

Depression is more common among women than men. Biological, life cycle, hormonal, and psychosocial factors that women experience may be linked to women’s higher depression rate. Researchers have shown that hormones directly affect the brain chemistry that controls emotions and mood.

Perimenopausal symptoms may be the cause of depression, and for some, it may ever be clinical depression.

According to the North American Menopause Society:

A depressed mood –This is a normal, brief period of feeling blue or sad that is commonly experienced and rarely requires treatment.

Depression as a symptom – This type of depression may be due to a wide variety of medical or psychological problems, or to intense reactions to life events (such as divorce, losing a job, death of a loved one). It is usually short-term and most often does not require treatment, although it can progress to clinical depression.

Clinical depression — This is a pathologic disorder believed to result from a chemical imbalance in the brain. A clinical (major) depression requires treatment.

Women who had severe PMS in their younger years may experience more severe mood swings during perimenopause. There are many factors that can cause an increased risk for depression from your genes, to having a prior history to taking certain medications.  Certain endocrine disorders, such as hypothyroidism, or other illnesses, such as chronic fatigue syndrome, are also associated with depression.

Signs and symptoms include:

  • Persistent sad, anxious, or “empty” feelings
  • Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism
  • Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness
  • Irritability, restlessness
  • Loss of interest in activities or hobbies once pleasurable, including sex
  • Fatigue and decreased energy
  • Difficulty concentrating, remembering details, and making decisions
  • Insomnia, early-morning wakefulness, or excessive sleeping
  • Overeating, or appetite loss
  • Thoughts of suicide, suicide attempts
  • Aches or pains, headaches, cramps, or digestive problems that do not ease even with treatment.

Mild depression – feeling blue or sad – can be dealt with cognitive therapy, psychotherapy, meditation, Yoga, getting enough sleep, a positive outlook, healthy eating, incorporating appropriate supplements, acupuncture, and exercise. Exercise boosts your endorphins and can lift your mood. Engaging in new activities may help, such as taking Yoga or Pilate’s class, or getting out and trying new things, all while enlisting the support of your family and friends.

If you have lingering or worsening symptoms, you may need medication.  Depression can be a malfunction of your neurotransmitters, particularly serotonin, which is the feel good neurotransmitter. Medicines can be enormously helpful, although you will want to incorporate lifestyle changes as well.

Dr. Wendy Klein, menopause expert and co-author of “The Menopause Makeover:”

If you are still feeling very stuck and sad, talk to your clinician so you can get a referral to a good psychotherapist. If you need medication, in the broader context of menopausal symptoms, there is some evidence that hormone therapy can augment treatment and help people who are on anti-depressants feel even better. That is a decision for you and your clinician.

According to the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN):

The risk of major depression is greater for women during and immediately after the menopausal transition than when they are pre-menopausal.

If you suffer from depression whether mild, moderate or clinical, get support and visit your health care provider to discuss your options.

By Staness Jonekos

Co-Author, “The Menopause Makeover”

Posted in emotions, homepage

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Posted in Uncategorized, Contests Tagged , , ,

Menopausal Weight Gain: How To Get Your Body Back

It is estimated that the average weight gain during the menopause transition is about 10 to 15 pounds.  Well, I must not be average, because I gained almost 30 pounds in less than a year when I slammed into menopause!   Frustrated that I could not find a solution, I sacrificed myself as a human guinea pig and figured out how to lose it all in just 12 weeks.

To be successful, weight loss during menopause demands a new strategy.  It takes more than cutting calories to lose weight during this life transition! I was surprised to discover, according to new research, that for many women menopausal weight gain is not entirely their fault.

The first culprit is aging. Both men and women lose muscle mass as they age, which can lower the body’s resting metabolism, therefore increasing the risk of weight gain and accumulating body fat around the waist.

Many women become less physically active in their 40s, 50s and 60s because life is busy; it’s a challenge to find time to schedule exercise. Less activity means less muscle mass, which means weight gain.

Now get ready for the double whammy:  Aging plus hormone changes.

Studies claim that the perimenopause transition may contribute to increased fat in the abdomen, changing a woman’s shape from a pear to an apple with more of the fat disturbed around the waist. Here’s proof that weight loss is an uphill battle.

As we age and slide into menopause, it is suspected that declining estrogen levels may lower the rate of energy used during exercise.  Weight loss habits and workout routines used in younger years often aren’t as effective as we age.  It takes more work to lose weight. Not achieving your desired results within a certain time frame may increase frustration and decrease motivation.

Declining estrogen levels wreak hormonal havoc that can cause night sweats, and that is a formula for sleepless nights. Sleep deprivation produces increased levels of ghrelin – the hunger hormone – and decreased levels of leptin – the “stop eating” hormone.  This can equal weight gain.

The list continues. Grab a glass of wine and settle in:

 

  1. Loss of estrogen may make insulin less effective at lowering glucose, and more effective at storing fat.
  2. Suffering from menopausal symptoms can affect a woman’s emotional health…weight goes up, self-esteem goes down.
  3. Normal life and environmental changes, such as children leaving or coming back home, divorce, death, career changes, can be stressful.
  4. The stress hormone, cortisol, directly affects fat storage and weight gain in stressed individuals.  Cortisol is associated with increased appetite, cravings for sugar, and weight gain.
  5. There’s a link between estrogen and body fat storage.  Post-menopausal women burn less fat than they did in their pre-menopausal years.  Cells not only store more fat but are less willing to part with it.
  6. Medical conditions such as insulin resistance (when your body becomes resistant to the insulin it produces) or suffering from an underactive thyroid can pack on the pounds.
  7. Medications that can trigger appetite, slow metabolism, increase fluid retention, and cause muscle cramps decreasing desire to exercise are:  antidepressants, antihistamines, beta-blockers, corticosteroids, insulin, statins and tamoxifin.

 

It is no surprise that most women going through “the change” struggle with weight gain more than with troublesome hot flashes.

Weight management during menopause is important because weight gain increases the risk of many diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoarthritis, and some types of cancer, including breast and colon.

There is good news! Put that glass of Merlot down and walk into your kitchen, because incorporating a new strategy can help you obtain and maintain a healthy weight.

 

How food can set you free.  Feeding the new you!

  1. Eat Protein: Women naturally have less muscle mass and testosterone than men, so lean proteins such as, chicken, turkey, fish, beans, soybeans and tofu, dairy protein/Greek yogurt, low fat cottage cheese, egg whites, are a woman’s best friend during menopause.  Your body expends more energy (calories) to process proteins.
  2. Consume healthy fats: olive oil, flaxseeds, salmon, halibut, tuna, avocados, almonds, and walnuts.
  3. Manage blood sugar with low to medium glycemic index foods:  beans, apples, oranges, cherries, plain yogurt, sweet potatoes, oatmeal.
  4. Fiber is your friend keeping you feeling full longer and regular.
  5. Limit alcohol to 2 or less glasses per day:  That totals less than 10 fluid ounces of wine, 24 ounces of beer, or 3 ounces of 80-proof distilled spirits.  More than two drinks per day may increase the risk of cancer and stroke.
  6. Don’t smoke.
  7. Watch salt intake to reduce fluid retention.
  8. Practice portion control.  Using smaller plates can help.
  9. Keep a food diary and create a food plan.  There are many great apps for your mobile that may help.
  10. Eat every 3-4 hours so you don’t get hungry. Three meals and two snacks per day (three if you wake up early).
  11. Exercise at least 30 minutes most days of the week to maintain a healthy weight; increase workout time if your goal is to lose weight.
  12. Make breakfast and lunch your largest meals.
  13. Nourish healthy emotions: are you happy, are you surrounded by healthy relationships, is your self esteem high?

If you want to enjoy some dessert after dinner, then don’t eat a starchy carbohydrate, such as white rice, with that meal.  For example dinner can be broiled chicken, steamed veggies and a glass of red wine.  Then you can have your cake and eat it, too (small serving).

Weight loss is possible with a few changes.  Negotiating the Glycemic Index is a powerful tool.  Aim for low to medium glycemic foods, toss in some physical activity and have realistic expectations.

Focus on you! Me-NO-pause!

By Staness Jonekos, Author “The Menopause Makeover”

 

Posted in nutrition, homepage

Will Your Marriage Survive Menopause?

Over 60 percent of divorces are initiated by women in their 40s, 50s or 60s — the menopause years — according to a recent survey conducted by AARP Magazine. Why are women running away from marriage?

I wasn’t even married when I slammed into menopause months before my wedding day at the age of 47. Despite being completely in love, I almost ran away and my fiance almost married bridezella!

Experts say the number one reason for divorce is lack of communication. My response from the ladies corner, “When everything you know to be normal is being kidnapped by changing hormones, communication may be last on the list. Throw in lifestyle changes, health and aging issues, and you are left in a small evaporating puddle of low self-esteem feeling hopeless.”

Many men blame lack of sex as the leading reason for midlife divorce. But is it? AARP poled 1,682 adults ages 45 and older on the importance of sex. Two-thirds of men (66 percent) and about half of women (48 percent) agreed that a satisfying sex life was important to their quality of life. That is only an 18 percent difference. So is it lack of sex, or a breakdown in communication chasing the women away?

Navigating a course in uncharted territory can test any relationship emotionally and sexually. It can also bring a couple closer — it did for me.

Purchasing midlife marriage insurance can help combat the unforeseen hazards during the menopause transition. How do you qualify for this love insurance? The first step is to understand how menopause can affect your love life.

Ladies first.

Menopause is a life transition that can affect you physically and emotionally. Your body is experiencing fluctuating hormones that can cause hot flashes, night sweats, itchy skin, migraine headaches, breast tenderness, vaginal dryness and irregular periods. Eighty percent of women will experience uncomfortable symptoms, and the majority struggle with midlife weight gain.

Many women feel unattractive going through so many uninvited changes. Some suffer from exhaustion, depression and moodiness leaving them feeling isolated and confused.

During menopause a woman’s brain also goes through changes. Dr. Louann Brizendine (author of The Female Brain) says, “The mommy brain unplugs. Menopause means the end of the hormones that have boosted communication circuits, emotion circuits, the drive to tend and care, and the urge to avoid conflict at all costs.”
There are additional factors on top of fluctuating hormones that may contribute to a lack of communication and interest in sex.

Dr. Wendy Klein, co-author of The Menopause Makeover and leading menopause expert, informed me, “If a woman is taking medications, such as antidepressants, mood stabilizers, contraceptive drugs, antihistamines, sedatives, antihypertensives and/or medications for blood pressure, this can also decrease sexual desire.”

Midlife stresses brought on by career change, the loss of a loved one, empty nest syndrome or caring for elderly parents can contribute to a declining libido.

Throw in aging issues and the last thing on a menopausal woman’s mind is communicating. This woman is in self-survival mode, and may be in no mood to connect or make whoopi.

If she is in an unsupported relationship while managing this collection of changes, leaving the marriage may appear like her only salvation.

Gentlemen — your turn.

How many factors listed above is your partner experiencing? It is no surprise why men are afraid of menopause. His woman is changing in front of his eyes.

Women are not alone suffering from changes. Men also have midlife challenges, both physically and emotionally. Declining testosterone can affect libido, moods and sexual performance. Generally a man’s hormones change gradually compared to the woman’s experience during menopause, so it may not be obvious to the man that he too is changing. Some of these unwelcomed changes may include midlife stress, as well as health and aging issues. If both partners are experiencing change, the relationship may be on an emotional roller coaster.

Approximately 47 percent of women experience sexual difficulties with a decrease of sexual desire being the most common, according to the National Health and Social Survey and the Global Study of Sexual Attitudes and Behaviors.

It is no surprise that most men associate menopause with having less sex. But, it does not have to be this way. The man can actually help save a shaky midlife marriage with some handy tools to power charge the relationship. Women who have a supportive partner often have a smoother transition through menopause. When she is happy, he is happy.

Acquiring midlife marriage insurance takes action to make a difference.

Midlife Marriage Insurance For Him
1. Listen to her; don’t criticize or try to fix her.
2. Go with the flow; be prepared for mood swings.
3. Be compassionate, and validate her experience (that means agree with her, don’t try to fix her).
4. Be romantic. Bring her flowers for no reason. Make her dinner. Give her a massage. Make it about HER.
5. Cuddle more. Tell her you love her and that she is beautiful. You may just get lucky. If not, do not take it personally.
6. If YOU are not in the mood, keep her company shopping, she will love the company ;)
7. Support healthy eating and exercise choices. Join her for a walk or go on a hunting expedition at the grocery store to find new healthy foods.
8. Don’t ignore her menopause symptoms. Talk about it. Ask her what she needs to feel better.
9. Offer support if she needs to visit her healthcare provider to discuss menopause symptoms, a low libido or depression.
10. If numbers one through nine fail – disappear for a while. She may be seriously cranky and need space to focus on herself.

Success depends on going through this transition as a team! Both partners must contribute to have a successful marriage.

Midlife Marriage Insurance For Her
1. Track menopause symptoms and discuss treatment options with your healthcare provider.
2. Make a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Exercise most days of the week. Eat nutritious meals. Watch portions.
3. Update your beauty regimen.
4. Build a support group.
5. Communicate with your partner. Don’t shut him out – let him know what you need. Understand he may be confused by your changes.
6. If you are not happy in your current relationship, discuss counseling.
7. Be receptive to creative adjustments in lovemaking activities.
8. If your libido is low and/or you are suffering from vaginal dryness, discuss your treatment options with your healthcare practitioner. There are hormone and non-hormone options available.
9. Pamper yourself.
10. Try to stay positive.

Communicate, support each other’s needs, get counseling if needed, add romance, adjust lovemaking activities, and your odds increase that your marriage will survive menopause. Being on the same team will nourish a healthy, loving relationship that can last a lifetime.

Life is constantly changing, and marriage is no different. Have real expectations, and acknowledge that your relationship goes through transitions. This will help you weather difficult times.

Midlife is an opportunity for both men and women. If you are prepared, informed and willing, your marriage can survive menopause. A loving relationship supported with good communication can strengthen your love life at any age.

This menopausal bride made it down the aisle of love. Both my partner and I said “I do” to communication and romance during menopause. We are still happily married five years later and ready to leap over the seven-year itch together.

BY STANESS JONEKOS

References:
Montenegro, X. The Divorce Experience: A Study of Divorce at Midlife and Beyond. AARP, May 2004.
Brizendine, L. The Female Brain. New York: Broadway Books; 2006.
Jonekos, S. and W. Klein. The Menopause Makeover. Ontario, Canada: Harlequin Enterprises; 2009.

Posted in relationships, homepage

How To Invest In Your Long-Term Eye Health

Fluctuations in our estrogen levels during menopause bring all sorts of uncomfortable symptoms, from dry vaginas to dry eyes!  I can’t even wear contacts because of dry eyes!

If you’ve already begun or completed menopause, you’ve probably noticed a decline in your overall vision– it simply isn’t as sharp as it once was, even when you’re wearing prescription glasses. One common complaint is driving at night– 40% of drivers over 40 feel uncomfortable behind the wheel after dark.

Why your vision declines after 40

Changes to our eyes occur gradually, over decades, until we suddenly recognize changes in our vision. As we age, our pupils shrink and dilate less in the dark, which reduces the amount of light entering our eyes. This can even make it seem as if we’re wearing dark sunglasses at night.

We’re also at greater risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the deterioration (or thinning) of the macula, a critical part of your eye responsible for your central vision. In some cases of AMD, blood vessels can form under the retina and leak blood and fluid into the eye. Macular degeneration is the number one cause of vision loss in adults over 55.

Two crucial nutrients, zeaxanthin and lutein, can help protect our eyes against further deterioration and support the natural functions of your eyes.

“Zeaxanthin and lutein protect the most important retinal real estate of the eye–-the macula–which allows us to see detail. It is therefore critical to maintain the quality and health of this area of retinal tissue in a modern society that depends upon using computer screens and driving automobiles safely,” said Dr. Stuart Richer, doctor of optometry.

Even through a healthy diet including leafy greens, certain fish, and other foods, you’ll still only absorb  a trace amount of these nutrients. The dose of zeaxanthin and lutein we need to protect and improve our vision can be found only in a supplement like EyePromise Vizual EDGE. The natural supplement helps dim the harsh light from glare, improve contrast when looking ahead, and reduce eye stress from bright lights.

I encourage you to take the time and invest in your long-term eye health and feel more confident driving at night.

Posted in hormones, homepage

Jane’s Story

Jane’s Menopause Makeover Story

Age: 49, At the start of the year I was depressed, stressed, and way over a vaguely healthy weight, let alone my ideal weight.

Hot flashes were exhausting me, my joints hurt, my blood pressure was creeping up, I looked and felt like a frump.

The Menopause Makeover is FAB – it worked for me!

I was a doormat to everyone in my life, and I felt powerless to change.

It took a night in the hospital with a heart attack scare (thankfully not!) to make me realise no-one else was going to change my life for me.

Thanks to Staness’ help I’ve lost over 40 pounds in six months, and become far more confident and assertive.

I look and feel 10 years younger, my joints don’t hurt, my blood pressure is back to normal.

Even better, I welcome rather than dread turning 50 next month and moving on into the next decade of my life.

What helped most- getting my protein/carb ratio right, keeping a food diary, increasing exercise, and clearly and publicly stating my goals to keep me accountable.

I’d recommend the Menopause Makeover to any woman looking to change her health and her life. It’s realistic, evidence based, supportive, and caring. This plan really makes a difference!

PS: I’ve actually lost another 6 pounds since the weekend the “after” photos were taken!

6 months later!

Jane’s latest update:

Hey, Staness, thought you may want to know I now weigh 15 pounds less than when those photos were taken- two dress sizes smaller! Thanks so much for your help!

BEFORE (Jane in orange)                                AFTER (SEXY JANE!)

I’m wearing a dress size I haven’t fitted into since before I met my husband- from UK size 22 to UK size 12 in under a year!!!! I’m using a lot of exclamation marks, because this time last year I would truly not have believed this was possible.

I’m happier, healthier, stronger, more confident, and meeting my goals in other areas of my life too.

The Menopause Makeover works! And not just for weight, Staness has created a fabulously holistic plan that takes in all aspects of a woman’s life. I would recommend this 110% to any woman wanting to make changes in her health, happiness, or general well being.

I didn’t set foot in a gym either, waaaaay to busy for that, or invest in expensive exercise equipment. My exercise is walking which I incorporate into my daily commute in a way that it uses up NO additional time out of my day (using those fitness shoes with the curved soles really helped power up my walking too), and doing some light strength training with a resistance band.

Okay, the sun is shining, I have the day off work, I’m out for my walk!

Love and hugs,

Jane

Share YOUR Menopause Makeover story!

Click here to email: Staness@MenopauseMakeover.com.

Posted in testimonials

Ankle Osteoarthritis and Stem Cell Therapy

My future was changed forever when I sprained my ankle in a college ballet class. This injury was 40 years ago yet a third degree sprain like mine was treated the same way as today: P-R-I-C-E (protect from further injury, restrict activity, apply ice, apply compression, and elevate the injured area).

Little did I know that the ligaments I injured had started physiological changes that would compromise my joint stability. The healing response that was initiated in an attempt to repair the damage actually increased my risk for degenerative changes that eventually led to osteoarthritis. It is the most common type of arthritis caused by the degradation of a joint’s cartilage. There are up to two million acute ankle sprains each year in just the USA alone.

Fifteen years after the initial ankle sprain I had severe pain and was forced to seek out medical attention in an attempt to walk normally again. Being in my mid-thirties and hearing that my only option was an ankle fusion, limiting motion for the rest of my life, was devastating news. My new mission was to find an ankle expert that was a pioneer.

NOTE reference photo of my left ankle X-ray 40 years after the injury, bone on bone, compared to a healthy normal ankle on the right side.

After five appointments with orthopedic surgeons in the Los Angeles area, I discovered Dr. Richard Ferkel at the Southern California Orthopedic Institute (SCOI). He became my lifetime ankle hero. He specializes in arthroscopic and reconstructive surgery of the ankle, as well as cartilage restoration, but it was his work with the U.S. Olympic teams, the NFL and NBA that really impressed me. If professional athletes entrusted their careers and joints to him, so would I.

Dr. Ferkel did a procedure to clean up the bone spurs, called arthroscopic debridement, and microfracture and drilling to help stimulate cartilage growth.

This procedure, along with lifestyle changes that included eliminating all high-impact activities, bought me over 20 years of good mobility with manageable pain. Once I hit my fifties with an injury over 30 years old, my quality of life was once again compromised with limited motion and bad pain.

Dr. Ferkel then suggested viscosupplementation, an ankle injection procedure with lubricating fluid. It is also called hyaluronic acid injections and commonly used to treat knee osteoarthritis. It was not FDA approved for ankles (and insurance would not cover it), but I wanted to proceed if it meant a decrease in pain and an increase in mobility. It worked, and I did the injection every year for five years. After each injection, it felt like a little cushion in my ankle; there was a spring in my walk again. Acupuncture also greatly helped manage the pain when I could find the time to do it.

Although it was not a cure, my quality of life improved. When I traveled and needed to do a lot of walking, I would take Celebrex, (also know as a COX-2 inhibitor) a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) that works by reducing hormones that cause inflammation and pain in the body.

There were no real fixes, just management options. Total ankle replacements (TAR) only last about eight to ten years, so that was not an option either. Fortunately for knees and hips total joint replacement surgery is an excellent option with longer-term beneficial results.

Looking at the end of my fifth decade, I was still not interested in ankle fusion, ankle arthrodesis, which can relieve pain but it also limits motion. I still had decent ankle motion and an ankle fusion would reduce existing mobility. My other fear was it could compromise other functioning joints that would eventually become taxed when the injured ankle joint was no longer mobile.

After extensive research there was promise for adult stem cell therapy that is an intervention strategy that introduces new adult stem cells into damaged tissue in order to treat disease or injury.

Stem cells are unprogrammed cells in the human body that have the ability to change or “differentiate” into other types of cells. Since they are obtained from the patient, the risk of rejection is almost non-existent. Knees have shown good results with stem cell therapy.

A 2014 study revealed that mesenchymal stem cell (MSCs) therapy on knees with osteoarthritis had the potential for cartilage regeneration. Today this procedure is considered a reliable alternative treatment for chronic knee OA.

Ankles are still the last frontier in this area. After 40 years since the initial injury, the biomechanical changes across my ankle joint surface had produced severe osteoarthritis. Daily walking became so painful I started planning my day around managing how much walking was needed to accomplish basic life duties.

I had dreams about running, and being free to move without pain. Friends no longer called to go hiking or power walking. It was difficult to maintain a healthy weight without being able to just simply walk. I was envious of friends who counted steps to lose weight, I planned my day around how few steps were needed to survive daily tasks.

Something had to be done, and it wasn’t going to be ankle fusion. That said, I spoke with many people who opted for ankle fusion and it changed their lives. Many even returned to athletic hobbies.

Stem cell therapy was my next move and Dr. Ferkel felt it could be a good option to help reduce pain and increase mobility.

It was an “experimental” procedure because it is not yet FDA approved. Based on research using stem cells from the iliac crest (hip bone), it had promise.

Dr. Ferkel told me,

“The goal is to reduce pain and keep mobility.”

He knew I had a fantasy that those stem cells would grow new cartilage, which it would not in my case of almost total bone on bone. For many who have a smaller injury, stem cells are now an excellent option, even on ankles.

During the surgery they had to collect the stem cells from the hip joint and distract my ankle joint (separate it from my leg) for the injection of bone marrow aspirate.

Concentrated bone marrow aspirate contains healing and growth factors, as well as healing cells called pluripotent cells. Bone marrow is the tissue that is found in the hollow spaces in the interior of our bones.

A centrifugation machine called the Magellan® MAR0Max™ was used to concentrate the platelets and growth factors, as well as the pluripotent (or stem) cells, creating an injectable product that is delivered directly to the ankle. The processing time is about 12-17 minutes, and the entire surgery was less than an hour.

My personal ankle plan now is to wait for another ten years until I am a candidate for a total ankle replacement. I will continue to utilize hyaluronic acid injections, take Celebrex when needed and be open to new options until it is time for my total ankle replacement.

We are all different, and fortunately there are good options available for ankle osteoarthritis now.

My hope is that those with similar injuries catch it early so new treatments like stem cell therapy may stop the progression of osteoarthritis, and joint replacements become a thing of the past for everyone.

 

By Staness Jonekos

*************************************************************************************

References:

Wodicka R, Ferkel E, Ferkel R. Osteochondral Lesions of the Ankle. Foot Ankle Int. 2016 Sep;37(9):1023-34.

Ramponi L, Yasui Y, Murawski CD, Ferkel RD, DiGiovanni CW, Kerkhoffs GM, Calder JD, Takao M, Vannini F, Choi WJ, Lee JW, Stone J, Kennedy JG. Lesion Size Is a Predictor of Clinical Outcomes After Bone Marrow Stimulation for Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Systematic Review. Am J Sports Med. 2016 Nov 16. pii: 0363546516668292.

Jo CH, Lee YG, Shin WH, Kim H, Chai JW, Jeong EC, Kim JE, Shim H, Shin JS, Shin IS, Ra JC, Oh S, Yoon KS. Intra-articular injection of mesenchymal stem cells for the treatment of osteoarthritis of the knee: a proof-of-concept clinical trial. Stem Cells. 2014 May;32(5):1254-66.

Mehrabani D, Mojtahed Jaberi F, Zakerinia M, Hadianfard MJ, Jalli R, Tanideh N, Zare S.
The Healing Effect of Bone Marrow-Derived Stem Cells in Knee Osteoarthritis: A Case Report. World J Plast Surg. 2016 May;5(2):168-74.

Burke J, Hunter M, Kolhe R, Isales C, Hamrick M, Fulzele S. Therapeutic potential of mesenchymal stem cell based therapy for osteoarthritis. Clin Transl Med. 2016 Dec;5(1):27.

Posted in fitness, Blog, homepage Tagged , , , , , , ,

Do Menopause and Alcohol Mix?

You’ve probably heard that moderate drinking is good for your heart. But you’ve probably also heard that it’s a danger for breast cancer and that it can trigger hot flashes. Here are the facts that can help you make decisions about drinking.

The most important thing is how much you drink. The benefits come with moderate—big emphasis on moderate—drinking. Starting with the Framingham Heart Study, big epidemiologic studies have shown that while moderate drinking has some benefits, drinking much more than that can be detrimental. More than two drinks per day and the negative effects begin to pile up, with increases in the rates of cancer, stroke, and more.

What’s One Drink?

This is how the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA) defines one standard drink:

  • 5 fluid ounces (one glass) of wine (about 12% alcohol). Don’t let your wine glass fool you—most hold much more than 5 ounces.
  • 12 fluid ounces (usually one can or bottle) of regular beer (about 5% alcohol)
  • 1.5 fluid ounces (one shot) of 80-proof distilled spirits

This is how the NIAA defines different levels of drinking for women:

  • Light: less than one drink per day
  • Moderate: one to two drinks per day
  • Heavy: more than two drinks per day

How Much Is Good?

  • Light to moderate drinkers have a significantly lower risk of coronary heart disease than nondrinkers. For women, the heart benefits of moderate drinking become apparent at menopause when their heart disease risk normally goes up, and the heart benefits continue after that. Hormone therapy doesn’t affect that benefit.
  • Women who drink moderately have a lower risk of type 2 diabetes.
  • Those who drink moderate amounts of alcohol, especially wine, have a lower risk of dementia than those who don’t drink at all.
  • Women who drink lightly or moderately have a lower risk of stroke than nondrinkers.
  • At and after menopause (ages 50-62), women who drink moderately have stronger bones than nondrinkers.
  • Midlife and older women who drink lightly or moderately have a lower risk of becoming obese than nondrinkers.

How Much Is Bad?

  • Drinking may trigger hot flashes for some women, although that isn’t based in research. So determine whether it’s a personal trigger for you. (As for a general risk of experiencing hot flashes and night sweats, some studies find alcohol increases it, whereas others find the opposite.)
  • Any amount of alcohol increases the risk of breast cancer. The increase in risk is there, but small, for women who drink one drink a day. Women who drink two to five drinks a day have about 1.5 times the risk of nondrinkers. (The increased risk doesn’t seem to have anything to do with alcohol’s effect on estrogen levels.)
  • Drinking alcohol increases the risk of many other cancers. The risk rises with the amount of alcohol consumed. (And the risk rises higher if you smoke as well.)
  • Alcohol has harmful interactions with many medications, even ones you may not think about, such as medicines for arthritis, indigestion or heartburn, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and more. Check out which ones here.
  • More than moderate drinking increases the risk of cardiovascular disease. Among heavy drinkers, women are more susceptible to alcohol-related heart disease than men.
  • Women who drink heavily are prone to central obesity—the apple shape that is a big risk for cardiovascular disease.
  • Heavy drinking can lead to osteoporosis that cannot be reversed. It’s also a risk for fractures.
  • Binge drinking increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
  • Women at menopause are especially vulnerable to depression, and heavy drinking can just make that worse. Heavy drinking itself can lead to depression, and women who show signs of alcoholism are two to seven times more at risk of developing depression than men.
  • Alcoholic women are more susceptible than men to key organ system damage, including heart muscle damage, nerve damage, cirrhosis, and possibly brain damage as well.

Take It Easy

If you drink alcohol, enjoy yourself, but make sure your drinking is light to moderate. For women, the NIAA puts its low-risk drinking limit at no more than seven drinks a week and no more than three drinks on any single day.

Provided by:  The North American Menopause Society

Can Red Wine Reduce Your Risk for Breast Cancer?

Learn More:

Need to know more about alcohol and your health? Try the NIAA’s Rethinking Drinkingsite.

Posted in nutrition, Blog

Jayne’s Story

Jayne’s Menopause Makeover Story

Age:  50 something Jayne is the amazing woman who launched the eharlequin.com Menopause Makeover community.  When we first met via phone prior to the book release, she confessed that she wanted to lose weight and start feeling good about herself again after reaching menopause.

After 12 weeks, our fearless leader got her groove back.

Jayne’s Story

I’m totally amazed by the results after I finally pulled out the measuring tape last night to measure my 12-week progress.

I have lost over 20 pounds, over 4 inces off my hips, two inches off my waist and one inch off my abdomen.

I don’t have the lumpie stuff going on anymore, the back fat seems to be gone, and I’m doing up my bras one clasp smaller.  My arms are tone too.

I’m feeling so much better about being in my own skin – it’s a great feeling!

I had someone at the office approach me today to tell me that my skin is glowing that I look amazing and at least 10 years younger.

This was much more than a book promotion for me, it was a personal journey.

Thank you again from the bottom of my heart for helping me regain my health on so many levels.

Thought you might like to see how my efforts are paying off in my new more fit Menopause Makeover body (I’m the one in the orange hat below with my daughter)!  I’m back in close fitting tees and sleeveless tops, and although I’ll never be as slim as my baby girl, I don’t look TOO shabby standing next to her.

AND just today I nipped into an outlet mall that is conveniently located enroute…my wallet wishes it weren’t, but I usually get such good deals that I rationalize the expense. I’m wearing a size SIX dress today (self portrait from my cell phone above). Yes, you heard me … SIZE SIX!!!

I nearly ran out of the fitting room squeeling when I put it on and it fit like it was made for me!  I’m sure the salesgirl must have thought I was insane as I went on about how I loved the dress ($15) and I loved my Menopause Makeover plan that got me into it.  Thank you Staness!

NOTE from Staness:  Thank YOU Jayne for your inspirational story, and kudos to the amazing women in our eharlequin Menopause Makeover community for their incredible support and enthusiasm.

Share YOUR Menopause Makeover story!

Click here to email: Staness@MenopauseMakeover.com.


Posted in testimonials

Menopause Makeover Voted Best Menopause Book of the Year!

Healthline selected their top 10 books that shine a light on menopause.  “The Menopause Makeover” was selected this year, and we are super honored to be in the company of other fantastic books that support the menopause journey.

Posted in homepage

GIVEAWAY


Get your DAILY nutrition in ONE protein shake!

The National Academy of Sciences recommends 2.4 mcg of vitamin B12 each day to boost metabolism and maintain healthy nerve cells, 600 IU Vitamin D may help lower blood pressure for those with hypertension, and patented PROBIOTICS because your gut bacteria can get out of whack from stress and hormonal fluctuations due to menopause.

HURRY ENTER NOW! Leave a comment on our FB page that YOU want to win!

For more information about our EAT LIKE A WOMAN LIFE STAGE SHAKE for Menopause & Beyondhttp://bit.ly/2q9rBzX

  • 20 grams of organic certified and patented plant-based protein that absorbs better over time than animal based whey protein, and provides complete amino acid profile.
  • Use as a meal or healthy snack
  • 120 calories
  • 22 Vitamins & Minerals
  • Organic Plant-Based Protein & Formulation
  • Antioxidants & Omega-3s
  • Metabolism booster
  • Curbs hunger & cravings
  • Patented Probiotic GanedenBC30
  • Supports digestive and immune health
  • Supports protein utilization
  • Antioxidants

Winner randomly selected May 29, 2017.

Posted in Contests

How To Relieve Menopausal Vaginal Dryness

If hot flashes, night sweats, crank moods aren’t enough to drive you crazy during the menopause transition, get ready for changes other unexpected changes.

We’ve heard it before and we’ll hear it again: menopause can cause all sorts of changes to your vagina, which can not only disrupt your sex life, but just be downright uncomfortable.

One common issue is vaginal dryness. As we get older, especially after menopause, the delicate vaginal tissue begins to lose natural oils. Even more, “declining estrogen levels during the menopausal transition can lead to itching, irritation, and painful sex,” says Dr. Alyssa Dweck, gynecologist and sexual health expert. With a number of treatment options out there, it’s important to know that all vaginal moisturizers are not created equal.

Many cleansers on the market, from soaps to body washes, have harsh ingredients and properties which can actually damage your intimate areas. Unlike other feminine care products, Lubrigyn Cleansing Lotion does not foam, which allows the vaginal tissue to maintain its protective barrier. The lotion also contains the super-moisturizer, hyaluronic acid, to keep your tissue hydrated throughout the day.

“Lubrigyn Cleansing Lotion is a rich vaginal moisturizer to prevent and alleviate these symptoms,” Dr. Dweck notes. Lubrigyn has been a feminine care bestseller across Europe since 2004, and is now available in the United States!

Learn more about Lubrigyn Cleansing Lotion and take advantage of the $5 off discount. Don’t forget to keep soaps and shower gels away from your vaginas, ladies!

(This post is sponsored)

Posted in hormones

Dry Down There?


Dry down there? Replens Giveaway!

Some menopausal symptoms never go away. Hot flashes are finally gone but when will vaginal dryness stop?

Never!

Hot flashes and night sweats may eventually go away- thank goodness!  But the blow to our estrogen levels and its effect on our most intimate skin may very well haunt us for the rest of our lives. One of the most common and troublesome symptoms of menopause is dryness as the estrogen in our bodies abandons ship, leaving thin, sensitive, and less elastic vaginal tissue.  Dryness, whether mild or severe, can cause pain during sex, discomfort, itching, and irritation even for those who aren’t sexually active.

Remember to Moisturize Everywhere—Including the Vagina. Moisturizing hands, legs and arms keeps skin feeling smooth, keeps cracking skin at bay and moisturizing the face scares away those dreaded wrinkles. But I’ll bet there’s a part of your body that’s in serious need of a little extra moisture that you may be neglecting—and that’s your vagina.

Vaginal dryness does not discriminate – it affects menopausal women just as it can affect those who are breastfeeding or taking oral contraceptives.  And, it can also occur in response to douching, radiation, tampon use, advanced endometriosis, and as a side effect of a variety of medications, including breast cancer treatments like Tamoxifen. Excessive exercise, alcohol, caffeine, smoking, and certain allergy medications can make dryness even worse.

If you've had vaginal dryness, you know how uncomfortable it can be, and if left untreated, it can lead to atrophic vaginitis, bleeding, urinary discomfort, UTIs, and painful sex. Some say sex can feel like sandpaper, and thus would rather avoid intimacy altogether, rather than risk the pain. Not so sexy, huh!

You’re Never Too Dry to Try, Here’s Why…Self-pleasure and sex increases overall health, vitality, joy and creativity, and ignites the brain and body together to enhance self-esteem. But, if you’re one of the 40% of postmenopausal women who experiences painful sex because you’re dry, you aren’t doomed to accept a life without passion.  The answer is as close as your neighborhood drug store and is available without a prescription.

Lube it up! For starters, the right vaginal lubricant is an essential ingredient for turning “painful sex” into slippery, fun sex. Most water-based versions are gloppy, sticky and only last for a few minutes. On the other hand, a silicone lube like Replens Silky Smooth or Wet Platinum is more slippery, lasts much longer, hours in fact, reduces abrasion to nil, eases penetration and enhances sexual activity.

Moisturize. Lubricants are great for use just before sex to reduce friction—but, they don’t replenish the moisture your vagina needs every day. Estrogen-free Replens Moisturizer provides soothing, safe, immediate, and long-lasting relief while helping the vaginal tissues regenerate naturally.  Regular moisturizing should be part of your self-care regimen because it actually relieves internal dryness for up to 3 full days, leaving tissues hydrated by replenishing moisture and rejuvenating dry internal vaginal cells. The hydrating property restores the vaginal pH to premenopausal levels and reduces vagi­nal dryness. “In a randomized trial, a polycarbophil-based vaginal moisturizer available over the counter (Replens) provided relief of vaginal symptoms equivalent to that of vaginal estrogen…,” stated the article published in the New England Journal of Medicine, entitled “Management of Menopausal Symptoms,” by Deborah Grady, M.D., M.P.H.

Soothe. The same hormonal changes that cause internal vaginal dryness can also contribute to external vaginal discomfort. The outside skin surrounding the vagina can become irritated and cause discomfort during normal daily activities like walking, prolonged sitting, exercising, and bike riding. Replens Moisture Restore External Comfort Gel’s blend of moisturizers and vitamins including Vitamin E and Pro-Vitamin B5, helps soothe and relieve irritation, discomfort, and chafing.

Sometimes, the ravages of menopause make the vaginal walls so thin and dry that the only way to reverse the vaginal clock and make intercourse and daily life comfortable is to use a local vaginal estrogen. But whether you choose a vaginal moisturizer and/or a prescription estrogen product, know that there are solutions that enable you to slip back into everyday comfort—and a more satisfying sex life.
Remember, you’re never too dry to try! 
Enter to win FREE Replens Moisturizer, Replens Moisture Restore External Comfort Gel’s and Replens Silky Smooth Lube. 

Replens Giveaway

(Sponsored Giveaway/Blog)

The same hormonal changes that cause internal vaginal dryness can also contribute to external discomfort. Replens Moisture Restore External Comfort Gel is a daily vaginal moisturizer that provides continuous comfort, and alleviates irritation of the vulva (outside skin surrounding the vagina). Give it a try – for free! (while supplies last)

To receive your free sample of Replens Moisture Restore External Comfort Gel, visit out Facebook page and leave a comment on the Replens GIVEAWAY post.

Please note: Offer is available while supplies last. We can only provide one sample per name, household or address, so please do not request more than one sample. Duplicate requests will not be honored or acknowledged. Please allow 6 to 8 weeks for delivery. All offers are available for U.S. residents only. We cannot fulfill orders to P.O. boxes.

Posted in Contests

Elyssia’s Story

Elyssia’s Menopause Makeover Story

Age: 47 After twelve weeks on the Menopause Makeover, I not only lost weight, but I feel a lifting of my spirits.

I am more vibrant and energectic and have a more positive outlook on life.

I went from 132 pounds to 116 pounds and have lost an additional 6 pounds in four weeks by continuing to stay within the guidelines of The Menopause Makeover Food Pyramid.

I learned to eat more and exercise moderately!

This is not a diet.  It is a lifestyle that I can live with.

Setting healthy goals and sticking to them is easy when you see results.

In sixteen weeks I have lost a total of 24.25 inches and I feel great!

The Menopause Makeover is a whole-person approach to health and well-being, and it has provided me with the necessary tools to gain a new outlook on my life.  I am forever grateful.

Posted in testimonials

Judy’s Story

Judy’s Menopause Makeover Story

Age: 53 I am here to tell you the incredible truth.  Twelve weeks after starting The Menopause Makeover… I lost 22 pounds!

That is just unbelievable.  The boost in energy I feel is great!  The fatigue is gone.  I am energized.  My emotions are stable, even upbeat and giddy sometimes!

It’s been a decade of struggle. I’ve been fighting depression, and hot flashes for many years.

Judy1_047My self-image was sharply deflated, and as a single working mom at 53, I had little time, and no energy to devote to myself.  I have never had any success with weight loss.

Staness, the amazing makeover queen, has given me the tools to lose the weight.

The Menopause Makeover Food Pyramid has been a formula that suits me perfectly. I don’t get sluggish and grumpy.

Thank you Staness for creating a sensible and balanced way to LIVE.  Not only through menopause, but forever!

I feel wonderful.  My life looks and feels better than ever!

Share YOUR story! Email Staness@MenopauseMakeover.com

Posted in testimonials

Lisa’s Story

Lisa’s Menopause Makeover Story

Age: 50 I began the Menopause Makeover just a few days after my 50th birthday, and candidly, it tuned out to be the best gift I could give myself at this milestone in my life’s journey.

I felt a growing disappointment and discouragement at my “physical” self, over which I seemed to have an increasing lack of control.

Staness took me through all the aspects of the easy 8-step, 12-week plan. I was over-joyed.  I saw results. I was amazed.

At last, a sensible, health lifestyle plan (NOT a temporary diet with temporary results).

The Menopause Makeover allowed me to reach my goal of losing 22 pounds in just 12 weeks.

I went from being overweight (178.5 lbs) to a healthy 156 on my 5’8″ frame.

I feel in control of my life and health again — and that is simply priceless.

Thank you Staness for The Menopause Makeover, a lifestyle plan that works!

Posted in testimonials

Heather’s Story

Heather’s Menopause Makeover Story


BEFORE                                                            AFTER

I am 38 and lost 52 pounds.  Yipee!!!  I went from a size 14 to a 4!  I proudly strutted myself into my high school reunion knowing I weighed just a couple of pounds less than I did when I graduated!

I had a total abdominal hysterectomy at the age of 29 – my doctor left one ovary to keep me from going through menopause.  Six months later, I was back in surgery to remove a large cyst.

Two months after that, the cyst had returned and the ovary was removed just before my 30th birthday.  An estrogen patch was slapped on me in the recovery room and I was on estrogen therapy for 5 years.

The weight gain seemed unstoppable and I became miserable.  I did not want to go anywhere or do anything.

Then I found Staness’ Menopause Makeover – this changed my world!  Her words made me realize that even though I was young, I did not have to PAUSE!

It took time, but I have found myself again!  I have more confidence and even made my way to my 20th high school reunion this past fall!

Thank you Staness for showing me the way to gain strength I never thought I had!

PS:  Here are the before and after pics I promised…you can see that my sweet little family has reaped the benefits of your program. I cannot thank you enough for the motivation, tools, and support!

BTW – The after pic was taken before my son’s first band concert.  He has struggled with asthma since pre-school and has been doing so much better!

I am a much happier person than I was in July of 2010!  Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you and yours!!!
CONGRATS Heather – you are truly an inspiration!  You did it!  Me-No-Pause!  Wahoooo!
Posted in testimonials

Menopause Makeover on PBS

We are excited to announce that The Menopause Makeover will be a donation gift during the airing of our FAVORITE documentary HOT FLASH HAVOC on PBS nationwide starting March 2016.

HOT FLASH HAVOC is not only a movie, but the beginning of a movement that will educate and empower women, men, health care professionals, hospitals, schools, clinics and health care systems worldwide by ensuring everyone has the most up-to-date and accurate information about menopause, directly from world-renowned experts in the field.

We are thrilled that so many people will have the opportunity to see the film through PBS, which reaches over 118 million households throughout the United States and Canada. We believe HOT FLASH HAVOC will give women a new perspective on the “Second Act” of their lives. You can help us make this happen!

Click here to see the list of PBS stations in your area.

If you don’t see your local PBS station listed, please call them and ask when you can see it. If you missed seeing it aired, call and ask them to please show it again!

This list is being updated routinely, so check back if you don’t see your local PBS stations.

Posted in Uncategorized

What Every Woman Should Know About Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

For those of us who have experienced many unpleasant menopause symptoms, did you know that dry eye is also one of them?

Eye health becomes increasingly important as we reach our 50s, which is why I’m shedding some light on age-related macular degeneration (AMD), the leading cause of vision loss in people over 55.

February is AMD Awareness Month, and chances are, you know someone who has the disease. Over 2 million Americans suffering from AMD and 7 million are at risk– the number is expected to double by 2020.

To help bring you this important information about AMD, I have joined the #AMDawareness campaign, sponsored by EyePromise.

WHAT IS AGE-RELATED MACULAR DEGENERATION?

The most common form of AMD is “dry” AMD, which 90% of people experience. It’s the deterioration of the retinal pigment epithelial (tissue) cells within the macula. These cells support the light-sensitive photoreceptor cells that are so critical to vision. When we look at something, the photoreceptors, (a.k.a. rods and cones) collect the images and send them to the brain, where vision takes place.

The macula is an area near the center of the eye’s retina. This tiny area is responsible for our central, sharpest vision and determines our ability to read, drive a car, see faces or colors, and view objects in fine detail.

As AMD progresses, our central vision deteriorates and starts to fail. The presence of lipid (a fatty protein) deposits, called drusen, has also been connected with the disease. While drusen likely do not cause age-related macular degeneration (AMD), their existence within the eye increases a person’s risk of developing AMD.

In about 10 percent of patients, dry AMD can become “wet” AMD, where blood vessels form under the retina, leaking blood and fluid into the eye, according to AllAboutVision. Wet AMD further (and more quickly) distorts the central vision, and can ultimately lead to blindness.

SYMPTOMS: Distorted, blurry or spotty vision, inability to see clearly in dim lighting. Imagine if a straight line looks wavy!

RISK FACTORS: Aging is the major cause of AMD, and women are more likely to have the disease than men. Genetics also plays a role, as well as smoking, which can double your risk. AMD is more common in Caucasians than in African Americans and Hispanics, one study shows.

HOW YOU CAN IMPROVE YOUR EYE HEALTH: What Every Woman Should Know About Age-Related Macular Degeneration (AMD)

Add important nutrients called zeaxanthin and lutein into your diet to help support and improve your macular health. While these ingredients can be found in many leafy greens, oily fish and fruits, you most likely are not getting an adequate dose to significantly support and protect your macular health.

“The dietary carotenoids zeaxanthin and lutein protect the most important retinal real estate of the eye–-the macula–which allows us to see detail. It is therefore critical to maintain the quality and health of this area of retinal tissue in a modern society that depends upon using computer screens and driving automobiles, safely,” said Dr. Stuart Richer, OD, PhD

If you think you are at risk for age-related macular degeneration, or might have the disease, schedule an appointment with your eye doctor today.


Posted in nutrition

Menopause Makeover & Hot Flash Havoc on PBS

The Menopause Makeover is joining Award Winning Documentary Hot Flash Havoc on PBS as part of their 365 station fundraising drive.  Wahooooo!

When you watch Hot Flash Havoc, executive produced by Heidi Houston and directed by Marc Bennett, you will have the opportunity to donate to PBS and receive a DVD of Hot Flash Havoc, plus a DVD series called, MENOPAUSE TALKS (Think Ted Talks with menopause experts), a copy of The Menopause Makeover, AND Change your Menopause by Dr. Wulf Utian.

Hot Flash Havoc is narrated by Oscar Award Winning Actor Goldie Hawn, and The Public Broadcasting System (PBS) has licensed to air it on stations across the country starting March 5th!

Click here to find out when it airs in your neighborhood.

If you do not see the PBS station in your area showing the movie, please contact them to request the movie.

We encourage you to tell both men and women to take the time to tune in, become engaged and encourage this vital conversation about menopause.

Both Heidi and I released our menopause passion projects the same year, and I am thrilled to have my book included with her film on PBS.

Posted in hormones

Giveaway

Enter to win the next giveaway, coming soon!

Go to the Menopause Makeover Facebook page, “like us” and leave a comment that YOU want to enter to win the next giveaway, and be automatically entered! Click here.

Check out a few of our incredible testimonials! Click here.

Posted in Contests

GIVEAWAY

Francine F. from Michigan won this GIVEAWAY!  CONGRATS!

Stay tuned for our next giveaway via Facebook.

Win a copy of “The Menopause Makeover”

Winner selected August 2, 2015.

Go to the Menopause Makeover Facebook page, “like us” and leave a comment that YOU want to win a FREE copy of The Menopause Makeover and be automatically entered for this giveaway! Click here.

Take control of your health and beauty during menopause with the 8-step 12-week Menopause Makeover.

Check out a few of our incredible testimonials! Click here.

Official Giveaway Rules

• Contest closes midnight August 1, 2015 !

• No purchase necessary.

• August 2, 2015 one GRAND winner will be randomly selected to win this giveaway.
• ONE grand prize-winner to be announced by August 2, 2015.


• Winner to provide a mailing address so the vendors can mail your prize.
• If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize within two weeks after notification via Facebook, prize will be re-awarded at Sponsor’s sole discretion.
• Eligibility: Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents over the age of 18 physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America.• No purchase necessary.
• August 2, 2015 one GRAND winner will be randomly selected to win this giveaway.
• ONE grand prize-winner to be announced by August 2, 2015.
• Winner to provide a mailing address so the vendors can mail your prize.
• If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize within two weeks after notification via Facebook, prize will be re-awarded at Sponsor’s sole discretion.
• Eligibility: Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents over the age of 18 physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America.

By registering, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest/Giveaway may be used by Sponsor and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.By registering, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest/Giveaway may be used by Sponsor and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.

All registrations must include entrant’s valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.All registrations must include entrant’s valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.

Decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding with respect to all matters related to the Contest. All prizes will be awarded. In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.Decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding with respect to all matters related to the Contest. All prizes will be awarded. In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.

By participating you hold the sponsor and gifting companies harmless in the event that the prize in some way negatively impacts the winner.By participating you hold the sponsor and gifting companies harmless in the event that the prize in some way negatively impacts the winner.

Disclaimer: the sponsor is not responsible for technical failures or typographical errors. This giveaway is regulated in the sate of California, USA. All sponsor’s are approved by MenopauseMakeover.com. Void where prohibited by law. Click here for our Privacy and Disclaimer policy.Disclaimer: the sponsor is not responsible for technical failures or typographical errors. This giveaway is regulated in the sate of California, USA. All sponsor’s are approved by MenopauseMakeover.com. Void where prohibited by law. Click here for our Privacy and Disclaimer policy.

The Menopause Makeover
4000-D West Magnolia Blvd. Ste. 105
Burbank, CA 91505 USAThe Menopause Makeover
4000-D West Magnolia Blvd. Ste. 105
Burbank, CA 91505 USA

Posted in Contests

Giveaway

Win a copy of “The Menopause Makeover”

Go to the Menopause Makeover Facebook page, “like us” and leave a comment that YOU want to win a FREE copy of The Menopause Makeover (purse-size) and be automatically entered for the next giveaway! Click here.

Take control of your health and beauty during menopause with the 8-step 12-week Menopause Makeover.

Check out a few of our incredible testimonials! Click here.

Posted in Contests

Coconut Crunch Shake

Eat Like a Woman: Coconut Crunch Shake Mini-Meal!

The PERFECT mini-meal designed just for women.

Ingredients

1 Eat Like a Woman Coconut Crunch smart nutrition bar

1 cup of almond milk (or skim milk)

1 small banana

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

A few ice cubes

Instructions:

Put all the ingredients – crumble the nutrition bar – in a blender and blend until creamy.

300-350 calories

Use 1/2 banana = 280 calories

I love this shake for breakfast when I am on the go.

For those who enjoy yummy cocktails, add a shot of your favorite rum.

You can purchase Eat Like a Woman smart nutrition bars here.

Posted in nutrition, snacks

Valentine’s Day Giveaway with Tatcha Skin Care

Love yourself first!

A very pampered Valentine’s Day with Tatcha

Enter to win the “Ritual for Normal Skin” a value of $448.00!*

Terri from Washington won this luxurious giveaway!!  CONGRATS!

This Valentine’s Day, indulge in the centuries-old beauty rituals of Japan’s geisha. Tatcha’s four-step ritual features ingredients like camellia, peony, green tea, red algae and rice bran for pure, polished and petal-fresh skin.

Created by founder Victoria Tsai, Tatcha is inspired by the secrets of the geisha, handed down and finely honed through generations of women. Tsai marries timeless ingredients with the most cutting-edge research and technology available for a simple yet stunningly efficacious skincare ritual.

How to enter to win “The Ritual for Normal Skin” a value of $448.00!

Sign up to get the latest skin care and beauty tips from Tatcha! HURRY winner selected soon!  “Like”  Tatcha on Facebook and be entered TWICE!

*The Ritual for Normal Skin can be adjusted to dry or oily skin types.

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Winner randomly selected and announced March 15, 2015.

Official Giveaway Rules

• Contest closes midnight March 14,2015.
• No purchase necessary.
• March 15, 2015 one GRAND winner will be randomly selected to win this giveaway.
• ONE grand prize-winner to be announced by March 15, 2015.
• Winner to provide a mailing address so the vendors can mail your prize.
• If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize within two weeks after notification via Facebook, prize will be re-awarded at Sponsor’s sole discretion.
• Eligibility: Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents over the age of 18 physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America.

By registering, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest/Giveaway may be used by Sponsor and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.

All registrations must include entrant’s valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.

Decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding with respect to all matters related to the Contest. All prizes will be awarded. In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.

By participating you hold the sponsor and gifting companies harmless in the event that the prize in some way negatively impacts the winner.

Disclaimer: the sponsor is not responsible for technical failures or typographical errors. This giveaway is regulated in the sate of California, USA. All sponsor’s are approved by MenopauseMakeover.com. Void where prohibited by law. Click here for our Privacy and Disclaimer policy.

The Menopause Makeover
4000-D West Magnolia Blvd. Ste. 105
Burbank, CA 91505 USA

Posted in Contests

Menopause Makeover Giveaway

Win a copy of “The Menopause Makeover”

HURRY ENTER TODAY!

Winner selected August 2, 2015.

Go to the Menopause Makeover Facebook page, “like us” and leave a comment that YOU want to win a FREE copy of The Menopause Makeover and be automatically entered for this giveaway! Click here.

Take control of your health and beauty during menopause with the 8-step 12-week Menopause Makeover.

Check out a few of our incredible testimonials! Click here.

Official Giveaway Rules

• Contest closes midnight August 1, 2015 !

• No purchase necessary.

• August 2, 2015 one GRAND winner will be randomly selected to win this giveaway.
• ONE grand prize-winner to be announced by August 2, 2015.


• Winner to provide a mailing address so the vendors can mail your prize.
• If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize within two weeks after notification via Facebook, prize will be re-awarded at Sponsor’s sole discretion.
• Eligibility: Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents over the age of 18 physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America.• No purchase necessary.
• August 2, 2015 one GRAND winner will be randomly selected to win this giveaway.
• ONE grand prize-winner to be announced by August 2, 2015.
• Winner to provide a mailing address so the vendors can mail your prize.
• If potential winner forfeits or does not claim the prize within two weeks after notification via Facebook, prize will be re-awarded at Sponsor’s sole discretion.
• Eligibility: Open only to permanent legal U.S. residents over the age of 18 physically residing in the fifty (50) United States of America.

By registering, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest/Giveaway may be used by Sponsor and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.By registering, you will be agreeing that your registration and any other information collected in connection with the Contest/Giveaway may be used by Sponsor and may be shared with Sponsor’s affiliated business entities, and that you automatically opt-in to receive email, text messages or other communications from Sponsor. You may subsequently opt-out of the receipt of such email or communications by following the directions in the email, communications or by contacting Sponsor directly.

All registrations must include entrant’s valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.All registrations must include entrant’s valid email address. The email address provided by online entrants will be the identity of the entrant and, if selected for a prize, the identity of the winner. We expressly reserve the right to disqualify any entries that we believe in good faith are generated by an automated program or via scripts. By participating, all entrants agree to abide by these Official Contest Rules.

Decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding with respect to all matters related to the Contest. All prizes will be awarded. In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.Decisions of the Sponsor are final and binding with respect to all matters related to the Contest. All prizes will be awarded. In no event shall the Sponsor be obligated to award more prizes than the number of prizes stated in these Official Contest Rules. Please allow 6-8 weeks for prize delivery.

By participating you hold the sponsor and gifting companies harmless in the event that the prize in some way negatively impacts the winner.By participating you hold the sponsor and gifting companies harmless in the event that the prize in some way negatively impacts the winner.

Disclaimer: the sponsor is not responsible for technical failures or typographical errors. This giveaway is regulated in the sate of California, USA. All sponsor’s are approved by MenopauseMakeover.com. Void where prohibited by law. Click here for our Privacy and Disclaimer policy.Disclaimer: the sponsor is not responsible for technical failures or typographical errors. This giveaway is regulated in the sate of California, USA. All sponsor’s are approved by MenopauseMakeover.com. Void where prohibited by law. Click here for our Privacy and Disclaimer policy.

The Menopause Makeover
4000-D West Magnolia Blvd. Ste. 105
Burbank, CA 91505 USAThe Menopause Makeover
4000-D West Magnolia Blvd. Ste. 105
Burbank, CA 91505 USA

Posted in Contests

Relizen for Hot Flashes Giveaway

Take a non-hormonal holiday from hot flashes!

GIVEAWAY

Relizen, A Natural Option for Hot Flash Relief

Many women are searching for a natural, non-hormonal treatment for their hot flashes associated with menopause.

The good news is that there is Relizen: A non-estrogenic supplement that is endorsed by gynecologists, and has clinically shown efficacy. This safe and natural option helps women ease into menopause comfortably and naturally.

Relizen is a patented nutritional supplement for the relief of hot flashes associated with menopause.* Already one of France’s top natural menopause products, and used by over one million women in Europe over the last 15 years,  Relizen is now available in the U.S. for the first time ever.

Women look to Relizen as a preferred natural and non-hormonal therapy, and trust its efficacy, which is backed by a number of studies published in leading medical journals.1 In a placebo-controlled trial published in Climacteric, Relizen produced a significant reduction in hot flashes without changing a woman’s hormone level compared to placebo.*

We know how annoying and uncomfortable those hot flashes can be, which is why we want to give away a three month supply of Relizen to one lucky reader.

Visit us on Facebook and leave a comment on the page telling us why you want to win Relizen!
One winner will be selected on December 16, 2014 and announced December 17, 2014.

To learn more about Relizen, visit www.Relizen.com.

1 For more information about our clinical studies please visit: https://relizen.com/Consumer/Real-Results

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food & Drug Administration.
This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

This giveaway is sponsored by Relizen

Posted in happiness, Contests

The Other ED™, Estrogen Deficiency

Who likes to talk about v-health? It changes with every life stage, and after menopause it can surprise you with one more change.

Estrogen deficiency (the Other ED™) after menopause can also cause vaginal symptoms that can have a negative impact on your relationship with your partner, your sexuality, quality of life, and self-image.

It may still be taboo to discuss vaginal dryness because it is associated with aging, but we have the chance to break the silence and open the door to individualized treatment.

Seventy-five percent of postmenopausal women suffer from vaginal dryness after going through “the change;” you are not alone!

The first step to initiating change is to become informed, to apply that information to your life, and then take action. Learning, living, doing!

How do we do that?

First, gather information: What are your symptoms? Are you suffering from postmenopausal vaginal dryness?

Second, start talking about it with your friends. How is this affecting your life physically and emotionally? It will help them too if you lead the way. This is when we start breaking down those taboo walls.

Third, discuss your symptoms with a health care provider. This can be awkward, but with some tips on how to start the conversation with the doc and what to ask, you can explore treatment options that may be right for you. We are all different with different needs and preferences.

Somewhere between step 2 and step 3, addressing your symptoms with your partner will help alleviate concerns he may have about pain you may be experiencing during sex.

I am proud to be on the GLAM™ (Great Life After Menopause) team, a women’s health initiative sponsored by Novo Nordisk, and we are on a mission to bring you information that you can apply to your life and share with others.

There is a wonderful site that is loaded with information and is fun to visit that can help you get answers to your questions so you are prepared to LEARN, LIVE, and DO!

Check out TheOtherED.com http://www.theothered.com/staness.

Visit http://www.theothered.com/staness for more information on the vaginal symptoms associated with menopause and tips on how to speak with your health care provider.

Posted in hormones

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