Heart health and menopause: simple steps to lower your risk of heart disease

You might have noticed some changes lately - maybe your body feels a little different, or perhaps you're more tired than usual. It's not always easy to pin down exactly what's happening, but one thing that's especially important during this phase of life is your heart health. The changes that come with menopause can have a real impact on your heart, even if you don't feel it right away. But here’s the good news: with a few small steps, you can take control and keep your heart strong for years to come.

Understanding why your heart needs extra care right now

As your body shifts, your hormones are doing a lot of the heavy lifting. One hormone in particular, oestrogen, plays a crucial role in protecting your heart. When your oestrogen levels drop, it can make your arteries less flexible, leading to higher blood pressure and other heart risks. You might also notice changes in your cholesterol or that it’s harder to keep weight off, especially around your middle. All these things can add up and put extra strain on your heart.

It’s easy to overlook these changes, especially if you’ve always been healthy. But taking a closer look at your heart health now can make a big difference down the road.

What to watch out for

Your body is pretty good at telling you when something's off - you just need to listen. Here are a few signs that might suggest your heart could use a little extra attention:

• Shortness of breath when doing everyday tasks
• Feeling unusually tired or drained
• A racing heartbeat or irregular pulse
• Mild chest discomfort or pressure
• Persistent headaches that won’t go away

These symptoms can easily be brushed off, but if you notice them, it’s worth having a chat with your doctor to make sure everything’s okay.

Simple ways to support your heart every day

Taking care of your heart doesn’t have to mean big, complicated changes. Small, everyday actions can help you protect your heart while still enjoying life.

1. Eat with your heart in mind: You don’t need to follow a strict diet, but try to choose foods that love your heart as much as you do. Fill your plate with plenty of fruits and veggies, whole grains, and healthy fats like olive oil, nuts, and salmon. These foods can help keep your cholesterol in check and support your heart health without feeling like a sacrifice.

2. Find joy in moving your body: Exercise doesn’t have to be a chore. Whether it’s a walk around the neighbourhood, dancing in the kitchen, or a calming yoga session, moving your body helps your heart stay strong. Start small—aim for just 30 minutes a day doing something you enjoy.

3. Manage your stress: Let’s face it - stress is a part of life. But too much can take a toll on your heart. Make time for yourself, whether that’s through meditation, a hot bath, or simply sitting quietly with a book. Whatever helps you unwind can do wonders for your heart.

4. Stay connected: This journey isn’t something you need to go through alone. Talk to your friends, partner, or join a community where you can share your experiences. Feeling supported can help lower stress, and that’s great news for your heart.

5. Get regular check-ups: Keeping track of your cholesterol, blood pressure, and overall heart health is important, especially now. Regular visits to your doctor can catch any issues early and give you peace of mind.

Thinking about hormone replacement therapy (HRT)?

You might have heard about hormone replacement therapy (HRT) as an option for managing menopause symptoms. What you may not know is that it can also have an effect on your heart health. For some women, HRT started early in menopause may actually help protect the heart, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution.

If you’re curious about whether HRT is right for you, have an open conversation with your doctor to weigh the pros and cons. What’s most important is that you find a plan that works best for your health and lifestyle.

You're in control of your heart health

It’s easy to feel like menopause is something that’s happening to you, but when it comes to your heart, you have more control than you might think. By making small, intentional changes, you’re not just protecting your heart - you’re setting yourself up for a healthier, more vibrant future.

At February Bloom, we’re here to walk this journey with you, offering products, tips, and support every step of the way. Whether you’re looking for supplements to boost your energy or advice on managing symptoms, we’ve got you covered. Remember, this is your time to focus on yourself and your well-being - and that starts with taking care of your heart.

You're not alone. We're here, and your heart is in good hands.