Empowering Women to Live Their Healthiest, Happiest Lives in Midlife and Beyond

Many women worry about the physical and emotional changes that accompany the transition through menopause and feel overwhelmed by conflicting food and nutrition information. Women want to be healthy and feel good in their bodies but are unsure how to get there. This presentation provides weight-inclusive nutrition and lifestyle strategies that can minimize symptoms and promote healthy aging.

Menopause is a normal life event for half the human population, but in today’s anti-aging, weight-biased, and nutritionally sensationalized world, body dissatisfaction and fear of weight gain contribute to an increasing prevalence and maintenance of midlife EDs. This presentation explores the complex intersection of midlife EDs, menopause, diet culture, and aging.

Menopause is a natural event in a woman's life. While there has been increasing media attention on women's health and menopause, confusing and fear-based messaging combined with a tenacious diet culture has contributed to misinformation about what is best for women when managing their health. This presentation brings attention to the myths and misinformation about menopause and provides safe, practical, and realistic interventions to help midlife women make informed decisions about their health.

As women age, their nutritional needs change, particularly if they remain active or engaged in competitive sports. We'll explore the specific nutrients needed for maintaining strong bones, muscles, health, and optimal performance, along with practical tips and strategies for incorporating healthy eating habits into a busy woman’s life.

While maintaining a healthy energy balance is crucial for overall health and wellness, it's possible for individuals to take healthy habits too far and develop an unhealthy relationship with food and exercise. This presentation examines the impact of over-exercising and under-fueling on the body, including increased risk of injury and decreased performance. Additionally, we'll discuss strategies for finding a healthy balance that promotes optimal health and fitness while minimizing the physical and psychological impact of underfunding.

Do you find yourself eating when you are not hungry? Are you confused by information in the media about food and nutrition? Managing stress and depression is becoming an increasingly common symptom underlying other health problems. Learn what foods and behavioral strategies you may be missing for taking care of your mental health and how to incorporate strategies that will decrease emotional eating and improve overall health.

As individuals age, changes in body composition can occur, leading to decreased muscle mass and bone density. This presentation discusses the role of nutrition and lifestyle in promoting healthy aging and maintaining optimal musculoskeletal health. We'll cover the importance of vital nutrients and physical activity for preserving bone, as well as unpacking practical tips for incorporating healthy habits into daily life to support healthy aging and musculoskeletal health.