The Menopause Minute - Volume 74

Dear Red Hot Mamas

We're in the height of summer and temperatures all around us have been soaring. Many women have told me that they have been frantically fanning themselves during this sweltering heat. But I encourage you all to embark on an exciting adventure to make changes in your life.

I would suggest using the summer months as an opportunity to assess your lifestyle and make changes. Look at your eating patterns, exercise habits, stress levels and put together an action plan. What better time than summer to take a long stroll with your loved ones, eat healthy non-fattening foods from the garden and integrate calmness in your life? It's a perfect time to do so.

Simple Summer Luxuries

The long, leisurely days of summer already feel pretty fleeting. Make the most out of the remaining summer before you are left wondering, “Where have all the days gone?” Jot down all of the activities, day trips and general summer fun you want to have and don’t forget to revel in some of the simple pleasures of the season. A few fresh ideas to get you started:

Secrets Behind a Beautiful Smile

Say cheese! Our smile is one of the first things people notice and something everyone wants to keep shiny and bright throughout life. We face more challenges as we age, including keeping our pearly whites gleaming and healthy. Our bodies change and so does the condition of our teeth, gums and general oral health.

As the years roll by, our teeth change color, becoming more gray or yellowish. Teeth change shape and become thinner as tooth enamel loses luster. Some people even find their teeth become loose due to bone loss and gum disease. Hormonal changes in women can make gums more sensitive and make it easier for gingivitis (inflammation of the gums) to develop. Sometimes this leads to swollen, red gums that bleed easily and the gums to recede.

You Asked: Why There Is a Red Hot Mamas Organization

I was 40 years of age when I had to have a hysterectomy with removal of my ovaries (oophorectomy). The reason for my surgery was to stop abnormal and heavy bleeding and pain which was occurring during my menstrual cycles. When I first was told I needed surgery, I sought out various medical opinions and all the doctors agreed that I needed to have this surgical procedure. I had a great doctor and I was getting care at a world-renowned medical center in Connecticut.