Now that i'm in menopause, should i be treating my body differently? eating differently? please advise. i'm 53 years old, and just entered menopause (have gone one year without a period). what, if anything, should i be doing to address the changed needs

It : It is good that you are thinking about that. One of the biggest problems that can occur after menopause is osteopenia or osteoporosis, or decreased density of the bones. It is important to have a bone density study to see if you are at risk of future fractures. If you are, there are medications that can strengthen your bones. Many physicians advise taking calcium and vitamin d for the bones. A good diet is obviously very important, both for the bones and cardiovascular health. Many women have problems with weight gain during menopause, so exercising every day for at least 30 minutes is beneficial. Also be sure that your mammograms and pap smears are up to date (you will still need a pap smear at regular intervals even after your periods stop).