Dr. Kelly Simms ND, CNS

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in Blog· Hormones and Metabolic Health

Menopause and Heart Health: What’s “D” got to do with it?

Vitamin D is important for many processes in the body. Immune health and bone health are just a couple. How does vitamin D fit in to menopause and heart health? New research suggests that vitamin D may lower inflammatory markers and offer cardioprotective benefits.

In the study, researchers looked at Vitamin D levels, as 25-hydroxy vitamin D (the level I check on ALL my patients!), c-reactive protein (a marker of inflammation), and coronary artery sclerosis (the thickening of the arteries in the heart due to plaque). Their results showed that the higher the concentrations of vitamin D in the blood, the lower the inflammation. When inflammation is lower, the risk for coronary artery atherosclerosis is also decreased.

What does this mean for you? In menopause it is important to be aware of vitamin status. Given that I have found almost NOBODY with normal vitamin D levels who was not on oral supplementation, it is wise to check! Also, this study offers insight into the heart health benefits of vitamin D, especially for those women that are  peri- menopausal or post menopausal. Heart disease affects an estimated 42 million American Women and is the #1 cause of death for women—vitamin D seems like an easy way to decrease risk!

References:

Schnatz PF, Vila-Wright S, Jiang X, Register TC, Kaplan JR, Clarkson TB, Appt SE. The association between plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 concentrations, C-reactive protein levels, and coronary artery atherosclerosis in postmenopausal monkeys.

Menopause. 2012 Oct;19(10):1074-80.

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Do you take supplements? How did you decide which Do you take supplements?  How did you decide which ones were right for you?  One of my favorites that can benefit many is black elderberry. Have you heard of it? 
 
This powerful herb helps: 
Reduce inflammation
Enhance immune system
Benefit cardiovascular function
 
The second bullet point highlights why elderberry is SO important to take in winter months. Our immune systems are getting back up to speed this season after two years! Elderberry is well researched and shown to be an effective supplement for fighting bacteria and viruses. 

Share this post with a friend who may benefit from black elderberry.
If you are what you eat, what are you? I actually If you are what you eat, what are you?

I actually used to obsess over what I ate. That wasn’t a long term solution for good nutrition, so I’ve learned how to eat what makes me feel good and is health promoting. 

Learn more about how you can take control of your health with nutrition, click the link in bio.
The winter blues hit everyone differently. You mig The winter blues hit everyone differently. You might find yourself looking to food or sleep for comfort while the weather changes your sleep and mood.

While you can’t change the weather, here’s some proactive steps you can take to battle the blues: ❄️

🥕 Eat Your Veggies. Just because it’s cold doesn’t mean you need to eat heavy, high fat processed foods. Explore recipes like hearty vegetable soups, roasted vegetables, and omega 3 rich foods. 

🏂 Go Outside. Exercise inside is fantastic, but don’t let that keep you from a brisk walk outside. 

🤗 Keep Social. Social interaction is important for your mood. Make sure to keep your social engagements even if you don’t feel like leaving your house. You will be glad you did.
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