6 changes a woman's body goes through after crossing 50: Includes weight gain, heart disease risk, more

Healthy ageing tips: Mood swings, anxiety, and forgetfulness are common but manageable once you cross 50. Prioritise rest, get sufficient sleep, and make time for hobbies you enjoy (Image: Pexels)

For many women, turning 50 is more than just another birthday. It’s a turning point, a time when the body slows down, hormones shift, and priorities evolve. Menopause brings with it new sensations, new routines, and often, new challenges.

It’s natural for women to feel uncertain about these changes. Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairman and HOD, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Elantis Healthcare, Delhi, tells Moneycontrol, “Changes are inevitable. But the key is not to see them as signs of decline. With the right awareness and habits, women can lead healthier, more fulfilling lives than ever before.”

Dr Gupta shares 6 common health changes women experience post-50, and suggests ways to manage them:

Menopause marks the end of monthly cycles and the beginning of a new rhythm for the body. Fluctuating hormones can cause hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep troubles.

Tips to deal:  Consult your doctor about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) if symptoms are severe. Stay active by practising yoga and brisk walk. These help balance mood and improve sleep. Abstain from drinking caffeine or alcohol before bed, and opt for light breathable night wear. “Simple lifestyle adjustments can ease discomfort and restore balance,” advises Dr Gupta.

Falling oestrogen weakens bones, increasing fracture risk. “Women should not wait for a fracture to take bone health seriously,” says Dr Gupta.

Tips to deal: Calcium is crucial. Eat foods like dairy and leafy greens to get sufficient calcium. For vitamin D rely on sunlight and supplements (if advised by the doctor).Include weight-bearing exercises such as walking or light resistance training.

Post-menopausal metabolism slows down, leading to stubborn fat, especially around the belly.

Tips to deal: Include fibre, lean proteins, and while grains in your diet. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Focus on strength training as it helps to maintain and boost metabolism.

Increased risk of heart disease: With declining oestrogen, heart disease risk rises. Cholesterol and blood pressure often creep up too.

Tips to deal: Regularly monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol. Eat foods that are good for your heart. Include foods rich in fruits, nuts, and omega-3 fats. Keep unhealthy habits at bay; quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption. Manage stress through meditation. “Heart health becomes even more important after menopause,” reminds Dr Gupta.

Urinary and vaginal health issues: Thinner, drier vaginal tissues can cause itching, discomfort, or urinary leakage.

Tips to deal: Consult your doctor and use vaginal moisturisers or lubricants as advised. Strengthen your pelvic muscles by practising Kegal exercises. Remember to maintain good hygiene and sta hydrated.

Emotional and cognitive changes: Mood swings, anxiety, and forgetfulness are common but manageable.

Tips to deal: It is important to stay socially connected and mentally active. Also, prioritise rest, get sufficient sleep, and make time for hobbies you enjoy. Lastly, seek professional help if sadness and anxiety persist.

Menopause can cause hot flashes, night sweats, mood swings, and sleep disturbances due to fluctuating hormones.

Consult your doctor about Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), practice yoga, brisk walking, and avoid caffeine or alcohol before bed.

Falling oestrogen weakens bones, increasing fracture risk. Ensure sufficient calcium and vitamin D intake and include weight-bearing exercises.

Incorporate fibre, lean proteins, and whole grains in your diet, avoid processed foods, and focus on strength training to boost metabolism.

Declining oestrogen increases heart disease risk. Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol, eat heart-healthy foods, manage stress, quit smoking, and limit alcohol consumption.