Postsurgical menopause is commonly associated with a hysterectomy; a surgical procedure to remove the uterus and ovaries. After a hysterectomy, your body undergoes menopause almost instantly because of the lack of estrogen being produced. This leads to loss of your monthly menses and ability to become pregnant. One common side effect of postsurgical menopause is weight gain. Due to decrease in energy and mood, many women may eat more unhealthy foods and decrease physical activity.
Step 1
Exercise at least 30 minutes per day most days of the week. MayoClinic.com states that teaming aerobic activity with strength training can help increase muscle mass which in turn prompts your body to burn more fat. Outdoor exercise can also help increase your mood and energy levels as the sun helps increase your body's production of seratonine, your natural "feel good" hormone.
Step 2
Eat a balanced, healthy diet with emphasis on fresh fruits, vegetables, lean proteins and whole grains. Fresh fruits and vegetables provide you with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants needed to support hormone production and natural bodily function. Lean proteins are required to help build muscle by promoting muscle fiber formation. Whole grains give you fiber needed to keep your digestive tract working at peak performance while helping keep insulin levels in check.
Step 3
Take all medications as prescribed by your doctor. Some doctors may prescribe you hormones to replace the lack of estrogen and progesterone in your body. By balancing these hormones through hormone replacement therapy, you can help restore metabolic function. Some herbal remedies such as black cohosh and soy can also help according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. This is because these herbs contain natural phyto- estrogens that help stimulate hormone production in your body.
Step 4
Reduce the amount of carbohydrates you consume daily such as white breads and pastas. According to Epigee Women's Health, once your estrogen levels decline rapidly, your body starts to accumulate fat in attempt to compensate for hormonal imbalance. In turn you could develop insulin resistance. Accumulated fat will be stored and carbohydrates will only add to this problem as your body can no longer break it down and use it for energy.
Step 5
Sleep eight to 10 hours per night. During post surgical menopause you may experience night sweats and increased stress, causing difficulty in getting a good night's sleep. Try taking a warm bath or aromatherapy to lull your body into sleep mode. Set your bedtime schedule to an earlier time to allow your body adequate time to adjust to the increase in sleep.
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