Reversing the signs of aging at 59 for Post Menopausal Women

As I approach my 59th birthday on May 2nd, I find myself reflecting on the journey I've embarked upon, particularly through my 50s, and the proactive steps I've taken towards aging healthily and happily. Turning 59 is both surreal and exciting for me. It's a number that once seemed daunting, but now represents a phase of life I am proud of. This milestone is a testament to the lifestyle changes and decisions I've made, which have significantly improved my health and overall well-being.

Embracing a Healthier Decade

In my recent reflections, I've thought a lot about what I call the "marginal decade" — a concept that focuses on how we envision and shape our future selves. For me, this decade was about transforming my health to ensure that I age gracefully. Diagnosed as pre-diabetic in my early 50s, I was determined not to let my health decline as I aged. This diagnosis was a wake-up call that led me to make substantial lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments and regular exercise.

Key Achievements in My Health Journey

• Reversing Osteopenia: One of my proudest achievements has been reversing osteopenia, a condition often considered irreversible. By closely monitoring my DEXA scans and incorporating specific supplements into my routine, I managed to improve my bone density. This proactive approach, combined with other lifestyle changes, meant that osteopenia no longer appeared in my scans, eliminating it from discussions with my doctor.
• Managing Pre-Diabetes with Intermittent Fasting: Another significant health challenge was my pre-diabetes diagnosis. Despite my background in health and wellness, this diagnosis was unexpected and prompted me to reevaluate my approach to health. I adopted the intermittent fasting lifestyle, which not only helped reverse my insulin resistance but also improved my overall metabolic health.
• Lowering Cholesterol Naturally: High cholesterol has been a lifelong issue for me, exacerbated by menopause. Refusing to rely solely on medications, I researched and found natural supplements that helped lower my cholesterol significantly. This diligent and natural approach allowed me to reduce my cholesterol levels by 50 points.

The Power of Consistency and Honesty

The common thread in overcoming these health challenges has been a combination of consistency, education, and honesty with myself. It's about making informed decisions and sticking to them, even when progress seems slow. Each step I took was based on thorough research and a deep understanding of my body's needs, which I believe is crucial for anyone looking to improve their health.

Lifestyle Changes and Their Impact

• Intermittent Fasting: This practice not only addressed my insulin resistance but also enhanced my overall energy levels and cognitive function. It proved to be a transformative tool in managing my health.
• Regular Exercise: I've always been passionate about fitness, but now it serves a dual purpose: maintaining physical health and serving as a joyful hobby. My routine includes up to three hours of exercise per day, which keeps my body strong and my mind clear.
• Supplementation and Diet: Carefully chosen supplements have played a crucial role in managing conditions like osteopenia and high cholesterol. Coupled with a balanced diet, these supplements have helped stabilize my health metrics significantly.

Embracing Aging with Positivity and Purpose

Aging is an inevitable part of life, but how we age is something we can influence through our choices and actions. At 59, I am not just living; I am thriving, with a clear vision of continuing to improve my health and vitality. This mindset isn't just about extending years but enhancing the quality of life during those years.

The Role of Self-Education and Advocacy

• Research and Self-Education: One of the most empowering actions is to educate oneself about health conditions and potential treatments. Understanding the science behind symptoms and remedies allows for better conversations with healthcare providers and more informed decisions.
• Advocacy for Personal Health: It's essential to advocate for oneself in medical settings. This means asking questions, seeking second opinions, and sometimes refusing certain treatments in favor of alternatives that align better with personal health philosophies and goals.

The Joy of Active Living

• Family and Community Engagement: Participating in activities like running races with my family not only strengthens our bonds but also keeps me physically active. These events are joyful and fulfilling parts of my life that I treasure.
• Career Fulfillment: Continuing to work in a field I love and helping other women navigate their health and aging journeys is incredibly rewarding. It reinforces my belief that age should not determine our capacity to contribute meaningfully to our communities and professions.

Conclusion: A Vision for Future Aging

As I celebrate another birthday, I am reminded of the importance of living with intention and purpose. The strategies and habits I've developed over the past decade are not just about managing aging but embracing it with enthusiasm and confidence. My journey is a testament to the fact that with the right approach, aging can be a beautiful and fulfilling experience.

I hope my story inspires you to take control of your health and aging process. It's never too late to start making changes that can profoundly impact your quality of life. Whether it's through diet, exercise, or mindful practices, the power to shape your future health is in your hands.