As estrogen declines during menopause, several key changes occur:
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The "timing hypothesis" suggests that starting HRT early in menopause may have cardiovascular benefits. Some research indicates that women who begin HRT within 10 years of menopause experience reduced mortality and heart disease risk.
Additionally, transdermal bioidentical estrogen (patch or gel) appears to have fewer risks than oral estrogen, with potential benefits for arterial health and metabolism. However, more research is needed to confirm long-term safety and effectiveness.
Rather than choosing one treatment over another, a comprehensive strategy—including lifestyle, medication, and possibly hormone therapy—offers the best protection.
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Dr. Suzanne Steinbaum puts it simply: “The most potent medication is exercise.”
No matter what medications you take, lifestyle choices will always be the foundation of heart health. Medication is a ‘supplement’ for how you live your life.
Deciding how much you will invest in yourself including how physically active you are, what foods you eat, your sleep, what risky behaviors you indulge in like alcohol or smoking, and how you protect your mental health impact your overall health, and the health of your heart.
Your heart holds your life story.
1️⃣ Educate yourself about women’s unique heart disease risks.
2️⃣ Empower yourself with heart-healthy lifestyle changes.
3️⃣ Advocate for better care—demand testing and treatment that takes women’s health into account.
Your heart is your responsibility. Are you willing to care for it? Are you willing to protect it?
80% of heart disease is preventable—how much do you love yourself enough to make the changes that will keep you living a long, vibrant life?
Check out these additional heart health resources!