Lifestyle and diet in postmenopausal women.

Diet and nutritional habits have a pivotal role in maintaining human health. Unhealthy eating, obesity and nutritional deficiencies may lead to various diseases. However, a most important component of lifestyle relates to physical activity. Sedentary people fare less well than those who exercise regularly. The benefits of exercise can be demonstrated in many bodily organs. The most frequently studied effect of exercise is reduction in cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, but positive effects on the musculoskeletal system, breast cancer risk, mood and cognition, and quality of life have been recorded as well. In many cases, a dose-response was evident, and even a mild to moderate degree of activity, performed only a few times weekly, may carry significant merits. The following article reviews this topic and brings updated information on dietary advice and the benefits of exercise in postmenopausal women.