The menopause is a natural period in every woman's life which is connected with inevitable changes in the physical, physiological, psychical, social and cultural dimensions. It is the time of changes which carries numerous risks, such as an increased risk of the cardiac-vascular system diseases, as well as overweight and obesity, which may have unfavourable effects on the woman's organism.
One of the most dangerous problems for women in the menopause is high blood pressure caused by the limited production of estrogens during this period. This problem may become very serious if it is neglected both by physicians and women themselves, which unfortunately happens quite frequently.
The menopause is a perfect time for the woman to have a closer look at her health, take care of her bodily and spiritual needs, and define new pro-health objectives for the subsequent decades of her life.
On 21 February 2011 ASA organized a lecture for the students of the University of the Third Age in Płock in which Ms Magdalena Mokrogulska - a dietician and nutrition specialist - talked about a therapeutic and prophylactic diet recommended for women in the menopause transition.
Ms Mokrogulska presented one of the best developed, coherent and comprehensive nutrition patterns whose effectiveness and versatile effects have been proved in scientific research.
She discussed all nutrition factors which effectively reduce blood pressure: weight reduction, lower sodium intake, higher potassium intake and lower alcohol intake. Additionally, in her guidelines she also stressed the importance of the appropriate daily intake of dietary fibre, calcium, magnesium and the appropriate amount of composite carbohydrates, animal and vegetable protein and properly selected fats in a diet.
Ms Mokrogulska also highlighted the importance of increased intake of omega-3 acids in the model of a diet aimed at the lowering of hypertension. All of these acids have prophylactic and medicinal properties with respect to high blood pressure, and in particular eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
Both EPA and DHA are included in appropriate proportions in the innovative preparation called Novocardia which has a favourable effect on the cholesterol and triglyceride level in blood and improves the blood flow in blood vessels.
All participants of the meeting were given little souvenirs in the form of pro-health preparations and Ms Mokrogulska's book entitled "Hypertension during the Menopause - the Invaluable Role of a Diet".
At the end of the meeting Ms Mokrogulska answered all questions concerning the role of a diet in hypertension.
It is important to remember that women's hypertension should be treated unconditionally because in connection with other heart diseases, hypertension is the major killer disease of women in the menopause. It should also be remembered that the basis for hypertension treatment comprises changing one's diet and habits, quitting smoking and taking up everyday physical exercise.