How To Protect Your Brain During Menopause

Hot flashes may be the most talked-about menopause symptom, but new research suggests the life stage could also have a major impact on the brain. A new study published in Psychological Medicine found that menopause may be linked to changes in brain structure, along with higher rates of anxiety, depression & sleep problems. Researchers analyzed data from nearly 125,000 women, including MRI brain scans from around 11,000 participants. According to the findings, post-menopausal women showed reduced gray matter volume in key brain regions tied to memory, emotional regulation & focus. Researchers note that these findings were consistent regardless of whether participants used hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Still, experts say there’s no reason to panic. Professor Barbara J Sahakian says that lifestyle habits may help protect brain health during menopause. She also stressed that getting enough sleep is “very important” because sleep helps restore the brain and supports memory. Doctors also recommend regular exercise, healthy eating, social connection, and mentally stimulating activities like learning a language or playing chess.