Menopause Symptoms - Brain Fog

So why does brain fog happen? Peri-menopause means that you start your journey through your menopause and your hormone levels start to decline. As your body produces less and less estrogen, progesterone and the related female hormones you became more susceptible to confusion and "not being able to think straight' your cognition will be affected. Hence the term 'brain fog'.

According to www.memoryhealth.com 60% of women experience cognition issues, such as short-term memory loss or fuzzy thinking during their perimenopause and menopause. In some cases, it can be so severe, it causes concerns about dementia and Alzheimer's disease.

I remember forgetting to write appointments in my diary, forgetting after school clubs, definitely had brain fog when I left the dog at the school gates ( I felt awful) the best one was yet to come... collecting the kids from school, packing them into the car safely and leaving the boot open! Only to see our family dog chasing me down the road in the rearview mirror !!! I laugh now, but at the time it was very stressful !!

So what can we do to prevent brain fog (and save the family dog)? A study by Harvard Health Publishing in 2014 suggests that 120 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week can improve memory, whether you have menopause brain fog or not. 

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We can also follow a brain-boosting diet to help with brain fog. Oily fish, olive oils, avocados, and dark leafy greens all contribute to brain function and help to avoid brain fog. Your brain NEEDS these fats to function!

Keep your mind active and challenged - learn something new or take up a hobby - use brain teaser apps or play mentally challenging games as this will help to stimulate your mind.

Soy protein supplements are said to help but always consult your Doctor first.

Another option is hormone therapy HRT or BHRT which helps with hormone balance and avoiding brain fog.