Black Women Excluded from Critical Studies Due to ‘Weathering’
N.Smith • December 17, 2022
Weathered by a lifetime of racial discrimination, Black women age earlier and faster. Researchers theorize this accelerated health deterioration is caused by cumulative exposure to race-based stressors in a race-conscious society.
High-stress hormones can be toxic for Black women’s bodies, especially if the women are repeatedly pushed into a fight-or-flight state by prejudice, marginalization, institutional bias, and oppression. The ‘weathering’ hypothesis dates back to 1992 when Arline T. Geronimus, ScD, proposed it after learning that young Black women had better pregnancy outcomes in their late teens than in their mid-twenties. By contrast, she found White women faced the lowest risk of pregnancy complications in their mid-twenties and the highest risk in their teens.
“There was certainly a whole narrative that teen motherhood somehow caused perpetual poverty, lack of education, and poor birth outcomes,” Geronimus said in a 2018 interview with NPR. “[But] the data spoke for themselves — that the risks were higher in black young women the later they waited to have children, and that was not true for white [women].”
Due to this premature aging, Black women’s experiences have effectively been erased from many research narratives. In 1994, the Study of Women’s Health Across the Nation (SWAN) began analyzing the health of middle-age and older women over time, through participation of women who were likely to undergo menopause. But, in line with the hypothesis that Black women age earlier due to weathering, many were excluded from SWAN after experiencing menopause earlier.
In November, Alexis Reeves, PhD, authored a new study that enrolled the approximately 9,000 women who had been excluded under the guidelines of the previous SWAN study. This ‘enrollment’ involved matching up the women’s profiles to similar participants who had been included, in order to compare their health outcomes. She sought to break down how selection bias and racial disparities in these cohort studies painted falsely high estimates for age of onset of chronic diseases by not taking women of color into account.
Across the board, inclusion of these women in the study lowered the average age of developing many critical diseases. Compared to the estimates originally concluded by the SWAN study, Reeves found that heart diseases begin 5 years earlier in Black and Hispanic women, while insulin resistance begins 11 years earlier. The results show that interventions for hypertension and metabolic diseases in Black and Hispanic women should target these groups much earlier than originally estimated based on SWAN’s data.
This is further troubling because studies usually determine the age range for recruitment of participants based on the average age of onset — women of color would have been more likely to develop the health outcome by the recruitment age, and therefore be excluded from study.
“I wasn’t expecting to see how much the selection [of study participants] changed these estimates,” Reeves told Science. “We’re overestimating the timing of onset of these diseases for everyone in SWAN, regardless of race. It basically amounts to only telling part of the story.”
Geronimus equated the idea of weathering to the tabletop game, Jenga. As more pieces are pulled from the tower, the structure can no longer stand and collapses.
Allostatic load — the physiological burden of constant adaptation to stressors — is one way of measuring weathering. Higher allostatic load scores are connected to older age, heightened mortality, brain health decline, and low socioeconomic status. Measuring this load involves tracking biomarkers such as levels of cortisol and of epinephrine, alongside the outcomes of this stress on blood-pressure reactivity and cholesterol levels.
In addition to high allostatic load, weathering has been tied to telomere shortening. Telomeres — the structure at the ends of a chromosome — help protect chromosomal stability, and shorten with age. Critically short telomeres prevent a cell from dividing, which triggers a cell to either die or enter an inactive state. Shorter telomeres are overall a risk factor for development of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and other diseases. While telomeres naturally shorten after each round of cell division, chronic stress has been tied to higher telomere shortening rates. Weathering may also be measured in epigenetics, which refers to stable changes in the DNA sequence caused by environmental and behavioral factors. This DNA methylation can either prevent or promote the expression of particular genes in one’s DNA, countering the popular notion that health disparities between populations are related to inherent DNA differences. The reality is that epigenetics can rewrite this ‘destiny’ in response to influences such as chronic stress.
Geronimus found that by age 45, half of Black women had high allostatic load scores, while by age 64, more than 80% did. Socioeconomic status could not explain the racial disparities — poor and nonpoor Black women faced the highest probabilities of having high allostatic load scores.
If the goal of clinical research studies is to gather data on women’s health and inform the implementation of interventions against disease, we must address the exclusion of women of color. Knowing the reality of weathering, recruitment ages for studies like SWAN need to adjust. Racially-based stressors result in real disparities in morbidity and mortality rates, illustrating women are not one homogenous population.
Credit Amanda Steffen "Black Women Excluded from Critical Studies Due to ‘Weathering",
https://medicine.yale.edu/news-article/black-women-excluded-from-critical-studies-due-to-weathering/
June is Men's Mental Health Month, a time to raise awareness about the importance of mental well-being and encourage men to seek support when they need it. Mental health is just as important as physical health, yet many men struggle in silence due to stigma and societal expectations. Challenges such as stress, anxiety, depression, or substance use can affect relationships, work, and overall quality of life when left unaddressed. Recognizing warning signs such as persistent sadness, irritability, sleep changes, or withdrawing from others is an important first step. Seeking support from a trusted friend, primary care provider, or mental health professional is not a sign of weakness—it is a sign of strength. This Men's Mental Health Month, consider checking in with yourself and the men in your life. A simple conversation can help break down barriers and remind someone that they are not alone. Whether it's reaching out to a friend, talking with a healthcare provider, or seeking professional support, taking that first step can have a lasting impact. Mental health matters every day, and everyone deserves the opportunity to seek help, heal, and thrive. Remember: you don't have to carry it alone. Credit Anthony Matt Men’s Health Month: Preventive care starts with being proactive https://www.essentiahealth.org/about/essentia-health-newsroom/mens-health-month-preventive-care-starts-with-being-proactive
Mental health plays an important role in our everyday lives. It affects how we manage stress, build relationships, make decisions, and navigate life's challenges. Within the Black community, conversations around mental health have often been shaped by stigma, limited access to care, and systemic barriers. That's why having resources that educate, inspire, and encourage healing can make a meaningful difference. Whether you're looking to understand your emotions better, strengthen your resilience, or support someone you care about, these seven books by Black authors offer valuable insights for the journey. 1. The Unapologetic Guide to Black Mental Health By Rheeda Walker, PhD This essential guide addresses the unique mental health challenges Black individuals face while offering practical tools for emotional wellness, self-care, and seeking support. 2. Sisterhood Heals: The Transformative Power of Healing in Community By Joy Harden Bradford, PhD Dr. Joy Harden Bradford explores the healing power of connection and community, showing how supportive relationships can positively impact mental health and personal growth. 3. Bottled Up Inside: African American Teens and Depression By Rose Jackson Beavers and Jermaine Alberty Focused on depression among African American teens, this book helps readers recognize warning signs, understand treatment options, and encourage important conversations about mental health. 4. Soothe Your Nerves: The Black Women's Guide to Understanding and Overcoming Anxiety, Panic, and Fear By Angela Neal-Barnett, PhD The book explores how anxiety manifests in everyday life and offers practical coping strategies to reduce stress and build confidence. Readers will find both validation and encouragement throughout its pages. 5. Rest Is Resistance By Tricia Hersey (The Nap Bishop) In a culture that often glorifies constant productivity, Tricia Hersey challenges readers to rethink their relationship with rest. She argues that rest is not a luxury—it is a necessity and a form of resistance against systems that have historically demanded overwork from marginalized communities. It serves as a powerful reminder that slowing down and caring for yourself are critical acts of self-preservation. 6. 72 Hour Hold By Bebe Moore Campbell This powerful novel sheds light on the realities of mental illness and the challenges families often face while seeking treatment and support for loved ones. 7. The Light We Carry: Overcoming in Uncertain Times By Michelle Obama Michelle Obama shares personal stories and practical lessons on resilience, confidence, and navigating uncertainty. While not solely focused on mental health, the book offers valuable insights into maintaining hope and overcoming challenges. Credit Bridgette Bartlett Royall 7 Essential Mental Health Books By Black Authors https://www.essence.com/commerce/7-mental-health-books-by-black-authors/#1595136
Most people know exercise is good for them, but new research suggests we may need more movement than the standard recommendation to significantly improve heart health. Current guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the World Health Organization recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week. That amount can help lower blood pressure, improve circulation, reduce stress, strengthen the heart, and lower the risk of conditions like heart disease and stroke. However, a new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine found that people who exercised closer to 560–610 minutes per week saw even greater reductions in cardiovascular risk. The bigger message is not that everyone needs intense daily workouts. Regular movement plays a major role in protecting long-term health. Exercise helps the heart work more efficiently, supports healthy blood flow, improves energy levels, and can even boost mood and mental well-being. Even small increases in activity can make a difference. Walking more, staying consistent, and finding forms of exercise you enjoy can help build habits that support both your heart and your overall quality of life. Credit Korin Miller How Much Exercise Do You Need Each Week for a Healthy Heart? https://www.outsideonline.com/health/training-performance/how-much-weekly-exercise-heart-health/
Overeating isn’t just about food—it’s often tied to habits, emotions, and daily routines that quietly shape how, when, and why we eat. The good news is that small, intentional shifts can make a real difference. By becoming more aware of your patterns and making practical adjustments—like grocery shopping with a plan, paying attention to portion sizes, and slowing down during meals—you can begin to take control of this habit sustainably. Here are six strategies to help you stop overeating: 1. Tune in to your emotions Food is often used to cope with stress, frustration, loneliness, or even for celebration. The next time you feel the urge to eat, pause and ask yourself: Am I physically hungry, or am I feeling something else? Learning to identify emotional triggers is a powerful first step. If you notice certain feelings leading to overeating, try alternative responses like going for a walk, journaling, or talking to someone you trust. 2. Beware of boredom Sometimes, overeating has nothing to do with hunger at all—it’s simply a way to fill time. Boredom eating can easily become a habit, especially when food is easily accessible. Try building a list of go-to activities for those moments: reading, listening to an audiobook, playing a game like chess, or getting outside for some fresh air. Giving your mind something engaging can reduce the urge to snack unnecessarily. 3. Grocery shop with intention What you bring into your home plays a big role in your eating habits. Shopping without a plan often leads to impulse buys—especially highly processed, easy-to-overeat foods. Before heading to the store, make a list based on balanced meals and snacks. Focus on whole foods, lean proteins, fiber-rich options, and healthy fats. When your environment supports your goals, your decisions become easier. 4. Pay attention to portion sizes It’s easy to overeat when portions aren’t clear—especially when eating straight from packages or oversized servings. Start by serving your meals on a plate rather than eating out of containers. Take a moment to notice how much you’re eating, and give your body time to signal fullness. You don’t need to restrict yourself—aim for awareness and balance. 5. Maintain a consistent routine Irregular eating patterns can lead to extreme hunger, which often results in overeating. Skipping meals or waiting too long between them can make it harder to make mindful choices. Try to eat at consistent times throughout the day. Regular meals help stabilize your energy levels and reduce the likelihood of overeating later on. 6. Get enough sleep Sleep and appetite are closely connected. When you’re sleep-deprived, your body produces more hunger hormones and craves high-calorie foods for quick energy. Prioritizing quality sleep can help regulate your appetite, improve decision-making, and support overall well-being. When to seek help for overeating If you try to minimize your overeating and feel like it’s difficult, reach out to us—we can help give you the tools you need. We are here to help you. Overeating can become a problem, with a lot of emotional discomfort like shame and regret. For some people, it can also cause a lot of anxiety or sometimes depression. A doctor or mental health professional can help you come up with practical solutions to address the factors that lead to overeating. They may also want to perform assessments to see if there’s a medical reason behind your overeating. Credit How to Stop Overeating https://health.clevelandclinic.org/how-to-stop-overeating
As we age, the body naturally changes. Muscle mass gradually declines, metabolism slows down, and the body becomes less efficient at absorbing certain nutrients. That's why nutrition becomes even more important later in life. Here are five key nutrients many adults need more of as they age. 1. Calcium Calcium helps keep bones strong and lowers the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Good sources include dairy products, leafy greens, almonds, and fortified foods. 2. Vitamin D Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium and supports bone, muscle, and immune health. Sunlight, fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified foods can help increase vitamin D levels. 3. Vitamin B12 Vitamin B12 supports brain function, nerve health, and red blood cell production. As people age, it becomes harder for the body to absorb B12 from food. Fish, eggs, dairy, poultry, and fortified cereals are great sources. 4. Protein Protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and strength as you age. Lean meats, fish, eggs, beans, nuts, and Greek yogurt are all excellent sources of protein. 5. Fiber Fiber supports digestion, heart health, and healthy blood sugar levels. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, and seeds are all high in fiber and can help support overall wellness. Getting enough of these nutrients can help support strength, energy, and long-term health as you age. Combined with regular movement and healthy habits, proper nutrition plays a major role in healthy aging. Credit Maggie O'Neill 5 Nutrients You Need More of as You Age, According to Dietitians https://www.verywellhealth.com/nutrients-you-need-more-of-as-you-age-11950022
Being physically active is good for every part of you — including your brain. The latest research shows that daily movement, even in small amounts, can help slow the progression of Alzheimer’s disease among people at higher risk of developing the condition. In a recent study published in Nature Medicine, scientists used advanced imaging and objective activity trackers to explore the connection between movement and brain health. They found that people who were more physically active reduced their risk of cognitive decline by up to 54%. Remarkably, these benefits began to appear at around 3,000 steps per day — a reachable goal even for those who are relatively sedentary. The impact was most significant for individuals who were previously inactive and started walking regularly. This is encouraging news, as these people are often at the highest risk for rapid cognitive decline. The findings suggest that simply adding short walks into your daily routine — whether around the block, in a park, or through your home — can make a meaningful difference for your brain health. The key takeaway is clear: you don’t need to run marathons or hit the gym every day to protect your brain. A modest daily commitment to movement can help keep your mind sharper for longer. So, the next time you have a chance to move, take the stairs, stroll after dinner, or enjoy a morning walk — and invite a friend or family member to join you. Walking together strengthens both memory and connection. Credit Alice Park, Walking a Little Each Day Can Slow Down Alzheimer’s Disease https://time.com/7330730/walking-exercise-alzheimers-disease/
Habits don't stick because of perfection—they stick because of progress. Every day, you make hundreds of decisions. Over time, the ones you repeat without thinking become your habits. And those small, daily choices—how you sleep, move, eat, and manage stress—quietly shape your health and your future. Progress Over Perfection Most people fall off because they think they have to get everything right. Miss a workout? Eat something unhealthy? Skip a routine? It feels like failure. But consistency isn't about perfection—it's about showing up. Even a small effort counts. The goal is progress, not perfection. Habits Are Personal There's no one-size-fits-all approach. What works for someone else might not work for you, and finding your rhythm takes time. For some, having support helps. A health coach, for example, can provide accountability, encouragement, and help you stay on track when motivation fades. They're not a replacement for medical professionals, but they can be a powerful addition to your routine. Build Systems, Not Willpower Willpower isn't about constantly pushing yourself—it's about needing it less. Strong habits reduce decision-making. When routines are built into your day, you save mental energy for the moments that actually require discipline. Start With the Foundation If your body isn't supported, your habits won't last. Sleep and stress management are everything. Without them, your energy drops, your focus weakens, and consistency becomes harder to maintain. Don't ignore the connection Health isn't just physical. In some of the world's longest-living populations, a strong community is a common thread. Support, connection, and shared experiences reinforce habits in ways discipline alone can't. How Long Does It Take? There's no exact timeline. You might see progress in weeks, but a real lifestyle change can take months—or even a year—as you navigate different seasons of life. And even then, your habits will evolve. Flexibility Is What Keeps You Going Rigid habits break easily. If you expect yourself to be perfect every day, you're more likely to quit. But when you allow flexibility—doing what you can instead of nothing at all—you create something sustainable. And remember: your habits don't define your worth. One off day isn't failure—it's part of the process. Set yourself up to win: Stack habits into routines you already have Use reminders and cues Make good choices easier and bad ones less convenient Small changes in your environment can lead to big changes in your behavior. There's no perfect time to begin. Habits are built in real life—on busy days, imperfect routines, and small efforts that add up over time. So start where you are. Stay consistent. Give yourself grace. Because what makes a habit stick isn't perfection—it's the decision to keep going. Credit Jenn Trepeck and Tara Schmidt What makes a habit stick? https://mcpress.mayoclinic.org/nutrition-fitness/what-makes-a-habit-stick/
There’s a quiet kind of exhaustion that doesn’t always show up on the surface. You can still meet deadlines, respond to texts, and show up for others—but underneath, you feel drained. This is what it looks like to pour from an empty cup. Over time, that depletion adds up. Burnout isn’t just about being tired—it can affect your mood, your relationships, and your ability to function in everyday life. Left unaddressed, it can open the door to anxiety, depression, and a sense of disconnection from yourself. The truth is, you can’t keep giving without restoring. Emotional energy needs to be replenished just like physical energy. The good news is that refilling your cup doesn’t always require a drastic life overhaul. Often, it starts with small, intentional shifts that help you reconnect with yourself and regain a sense of balance. 1. Carve Out Time for Yourself It sounds simple, but it’s often the first thing people neglect. When life gets busy, personal time can feel like a luxury rather than a necessity. But without it, you lose the space to process, reflect, and exist without demands. Carving out time for yourself isn’t about being unproductive—it’s about being intentional. Whether it’s a quiet morning walk, reading a few pages of a book, or sitting with your thoughts without distractions, these moments act as a reset. They allow your mind to slow down and your emotional reserves to rebuild. 2. Commit to Better Health Your emotional state is deeply connected to how you treat your body. When you’re running on poor sleep, low-quality food, and little movement, it becomes much harder to manage stress and regulate emotions. Exercise doesn’t have to mean intense workouts—it can be as simple as a daily walk, stretching, or light training. Nutrition also plays a role. Eating balanced meals fuels your brain and body, helping you feel more stable and energized throughout the day. Sleep—often overlooked—is foundational. Without adequate rest, everything feels heavier, and even small challenges can become overwhelming. When you commit to better health, you’re not just improving your physical condition—you’re strengthening your ability to handle life emotionally. 3. Surround Yourself with Comfort Your environment and the people around you influence how you feel more than you might realize. Comfort doesn’t have to be extravagant. It can be your favorite music playing in the background, a clean and calming space, or spending time with people who make you feel at ease. It’s about creating an atmosphere where you can let your guard down and recharge. This also means setting boundaries. Not every invitation needs a yes, and not every relationship deserves unlimited access to your energy. Protecting your peace is a powerful way to refill your emotional cup. You don’t have to wait until you’re completely burned out to start taking care of yourself. Refilling your cup is an ongoing practice, not a one-time fix. The goal isn’t perfection. It’s sustainability. When your cup is full, you don’t just feel better—you show up differently in every area of your life. Credit Heidi Godman Pouring from an empty cup? Three ways to refill emotionally https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/pouring-from-an-empty-cup-three-ways-to-refill-emotionally-202301262882
When most people set exercise goals, the focus is usually physical—building muscle, losing weight, or improving endurance. But movement offers something just as powerful, and often overlooked: a meaningful boost to your mental and emotional well-being. This is where the mind-body connection comes into play. Your body and brain are constantly communicating. When you move your body, you’re not just working your muscles—you’re also influencing your mood, your energy levels, and even how you handle stress. One of the main reasons exercise feels so good is because of the “happy hormones” your body releases during movement: -Endorphins act as natural pain relievers and mood boosters, often creating that post-workout “feel-good” sensation. -Serotonin helps regulate mood and sleep, supporting a sense of calm and balance. -Dopamine fuels motivation and reinforces positive feelings, making you more likely to stick with habits that feel rewarding. -Norepinephrine plays a key role in managing stress while improving focus, energy, and alertness. Together, these chemicals create a powerful shift—not just in how your body feels, but in how your mind processes the world around you. The type of movement you choose can also support how you’re feeling in the moment. If you’re stressed, restless, or worked up, high-intensity exercises like running, jumping jacks, or high knees can help release built-up tension and reset your mood. On the other hand, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, drained, or mentally exhausted, slower, more grounding activities like walking, stretching, or yoga can help you reconnect and recharge. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. What works for someone else may not work for you—and that’s okay. In fact, your needs may change from day to day. Some days call for intensity, while others require stillness and recovery. What matters most is finding movement that feels good to you. Exercise shouldn’t feel like a punishment or a chore. The more you enjoy what you’re doing, the more likely you are to stay consistent—and consistency is where the real mental health benefits begin to take shape. Over time, regular movement can help reduce anxiety, improve sleep, boost confidence, and foster greater emotional resilience. It becomes less about forcing yourself to work out and more about giving yourself something you genuinely need. At its core, exercise is more than a physical act—it’s a form of self-care. When you move your body, you’re not just strengthening muscles; you’re creating space for clarity, balance, and a healthier state of mind. Credit Maggie Donahue Move Your Body, Lift Your Mind: The Mental Health Benefits of Exercise https://www.verywellmind.com/mental-health-and-exercise-11935851
Your appetite is usually guided by a simple rhythm: hunger signals you to eat, and eating brings a sense of fullness. But sometimes that rhythm feels off. You finish a meal, and not long after, you’re still hungry—or hungry again. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Feeling hungry after eating can be frustrating, but it often comes down to a few underlying factors that are easier to understand—and fix—than you might think. Here are 7 reasons why you might still feel hungry after eating: 1. You Have a Medical Condition or Take a Medication That Increases Your Appetite Certain health conditions can interfere with your body’s hunger and fullness signals. Hormonal imbalances, blood sugar fluctuations, or metabolic conditions can all increase appetite. Medications can also play a role. Some prescriptions, especially those related to mood, inflammation, or hormone regulation, may stimulate hunger or make it harder to feel full. If your hunger feels constant or unusually intense, it may be worth speaking with a healthcare provider to rule out any underlying causes. 2. You Didn’t Eat Enough Sometimes the answer is simple—you didn’t eat enough to satisfy your body’s needs. Meals that are too small or lack key nutrients (such as protein, fiber, and healthy fats) may not provide lasting satiety. Your body is still looking for fuel, so hunger returns quickly. 3. You Ate Too Fast When you eat quickly, your body doesn’t have enough time to register fullness. It takes about 20 minutes for your brain to receive signals from your stomach that you’ve had enough. If you finish your meal in five minutes, you may still feel hungry simply because your body hasn’t caught up yet. 4. You Waited Too Long to Eat Going too long without food can lead to intense hunger, which often results in overeating or choosing quick, less satisfying options. When your body is in a state of extreme hunger, it’s harder to feel satisfied—even after eating—because your system is trying to recover from a perceived energy shortage. 5. Your Meals Lack Protein or Fiber Protein and fiber are two of the most important nutrients for fullness. Protein helps regulate hunger hormones, while fiber slows digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied longer. Meals that are high in refined carbs but low in these nutrients may leave you hungry shortly after eating. 6. You’re Dehydrated Thirst can sometimes be mistaken for hunger. When your body needs fluids, it may send signals that feel like hunger, leading you to eat when what you actually need is water. If you’re still hungry after eating, try drinking a glass of water and see how you feel after a few minutes. 7. You’re Eating Out of Habit, Stress, or Emotion Not all hunger is physical. Emotional or habitual eating can create a cycle where you eat without truly satisfying your body’s needs. Stress, boredom, or routine can trigger the urge to eat, even if your body isn’t physically hungry. In these cases, food doesn’t resolve the underlying feeling, so hunger persists. Becoming more aware of your eating patterns can help you distinguish between physical hunger and emotional cues. Feeling hungry after eating doesn’t mean something is wrong—it’s often your body trying to communicate a need that hasn’t been fully met. Your body isn’t working against you—it’s giving you signals. The key is learning how to listen. Credit Caroline Tien 7 Reasons Why You Might Feel Hungry After Eating https://www.self.com/story/why-you-feel-hungry-even-after-eating
