Did you know that replacing a woman’s estrogen in menopause can protect her heart? February is National Heart Month and last Friday was go Red for Women so I thought this might be a relevant topic for this week’s blog.
Hormones are about more than just reproduction
You know in the year 1900 the average lifespan of woman was 49 years. We did not even make it to menopause! In 2020 we can expect to live to age 79 and it seems we need our hormones for a bit longer. They are needed for more than just reproduction of our species.
What else does Estrogen do?
- Estrogen protects the brain from cognitive decline or dementia. It helps keep our mind sharp as we age.
- Estrogen keeps our bones stronger and prevents osteoporosis.
- Estrogen protects us from heart disease and stroke when used correctly
By correctly, I mean a topical bioidentical preparation. Current studies show that we want to initiate estrogen therapy sooner rather than later, as the estrogens are declining in your body. You will still get some benefit if you wait until the hot flashes start but it is not as impactful.
Check out some of our previous blogs on the topics of Menopause, Hormone Replacement Therapy or Cardiovascular disease.
Please call our office for more information 303-333-1668. We are here for all of your Functional Medicine needs!
Happy Healthy Heart Month!
Dr Tracy
