To put it clearly, women are biologically different from men. Those differences indicate a few basis for diet, exercise and health counts in as a whole. Women, for instance, by nature have a higher portion of body fat compared to men, about average 27% compared to 15% for a fit individual. That single number alone is helpful fact if among your weight loss or exercise target is fat reduction. Any woman attempting to bring down her percentage ought to consider this natural difference, since it can help prevent guilt and render a realistic goal.
As women age, they go through hormonal changes that differ significantly from that of men when they age. Even young women can have abnormalities in their menstrual cycle and other physiological changes as an effect. This can be seen more bluntly by looking at some utmost cases.
Women in concentration camps in WWII oftentimes stopped having regular menstrual cycles, as an effect of starvation. Highly trained female athletes also frequently go through same shifts, as a result of ultra-low body fat and other causes.
The ill effects of PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) can be reduced by stabilizing blood sugar levels, regulating fat intake and other dietary changes. For example, mood swings can be smoothed out to a degree by higher amounts of soluble fiber, which helps produce a slower rise in blood sugar. Apples, oats and beans are good sources.
Blending fat with protein and carbohydrate consumption in a stable way will help slow down the rise in blood sugar from the carbohydrate consumption. Ice cream may be a comfort food but the result is temporary and does not supply the balance necessary. Alternatively, escalate consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables. Bananas are a good choice, along with walnuts.
Women are more inclined to arthritis, fibromyalgia and other conditions. Certain previously unexpected food allergic reaction can worsen the symptoms. Trying out is necessary, but at the same time a healthy diet will help. Rice beverages can be replaced for those sensitive to cows milk, there are wheat-free breads on the market that are still whole grain and peanuts may need to be avoided for some. For instance some women who suffer from rheumatic symptoms will find they are allergic to wheat. A gluten-free diet will help subside that problem. This includes finding substitutes for common cereal, standard bread, pasta and other foods made from wheat flour.
During the years of menopause, as cycles become less regular and large hormonal changes are occurring, diet can help lessen the badness of any uncomfortableness. Bringing down sodium consumption is helpful. Substitutes include herbs, garlic or lemon juice for flavoring. Each individual is different, though, and you should consult a physician for right numbers.
Menopausal women are likely to benefit from reducing saturated fats, beyond that of younger women or males. Since estrogen levels are declining, HDL cholesterol (the beneficial type) will tend to fall and LDL cholesterol (the potentially harmful type) will rise. One result is that, though men in general have a higher risk of heart attack as they age, during this time a woman’s risk is equal to those of men of similar age. Reducing saturated and trans fat can help reduce those risks.
Moderating your wine intake is very helpful. It brings anti-oxidants and other helpful compounds and is commonly low in calories compared to other alternatives. Bringing down your intake of caffeine can help reduce loss of calcium, which is more needed as women age.
What makes up an appropriate diet changes fairly by gender and age, so determine what is suitable for your specific circumstances. Knowledge is the key to health.
About the author: John writes articles on health related topics and medication. And among his many written articles is on weight loss plans. Know more about quick weight loss diets online. Let’s all be healthy and get going!