In good news for women looking for non-hormonal alternatives, a new study has found that engaging in moderate exercise helps manage post-menopausal symptoms and improve quality of life.
Researchers from the University of Granada in Spain published in the journal Menopause, the findings of a study earlier this month. Researchers found that a 20-week exercise program helped women boost their fitness levels, lose some weight and improve physical and mental wellbeing.
Additionally, the women showed a reduction in hot flashes and night sweats, the two most common symptoms of menopause for which women seek treatment.
Similar studies have been conducted in the past, but this new study recruited 234 women who were at least one year past menopause. Overall, 166 women lived sedentary lives: half of them were asked to continue with their usual lifestyle, while the other half began the 20-week exercise program. The remaining women were already engaged in physical activity and were used as a second comparison group.
During the study, the program required women to do three one-hour supervised workouts per week. These workouts involved moderate aerobic exercise, such as fast walking and strength training.
All women in the program also received psychological counseling to help them manage behavioural and mood changes.
Find out more at Menopause.org
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