For some women, hormone replacement therapy is exactly what the doctor ordered. But for women whose risks for certain cancers or heart disease are increased by estrogen replacement, or who simply don't want to undertake the lifelong commitment required for this therapy to remain effective, it may not be the best option. Lifestyle changes Generally, menopausal women want to prevent future health problems and manage current symptoms. There are lifestyle changes you can make that may effectively address both of these goals. Women who exercise three to four hours a week drop their breast cancer risk by 70 percent if they've had full-term pregnancies and by 30 percent if they haven't.
Yoga is especially useful for women dealing with menopausal symptoms.
We truly are what we eat, and most of us eat high-fat diets that put us at greater risk for many avoidable diseases. Whole grains such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, legumes, oatmeal, corn and baked potatoes can be eaten in abundance. Avoid flavorings such as butter, sour cream or alfredo sauce. Instead, add salsa or veggies. Also eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are excellent fiber sources, among other their advantages.