Integrative Impact of Multi-Domain Lifestyle Intervention on Autonomic Function, Cognitive Flexibility, and Sleep Homeostasis in Postmenopausal Women

The intricate neuroendocrine shift, known as menopause, affects sleep architecture, cognitive flexibility, and autonomic function. An integrative, multi-domain strategy is becoming increasingly necessary, even though individual therapies, such as exercise, stress reduction, and dietary modification, have shown promise in reducing menopausal symptoms. In this study, heart rate variability (HRV), electroencephalogram (EEG) sleep profiles, and cognitive performance were examined for the combined effects of a comprehensive lifestyle intervention that includes functional training, mindfulness-based stress reduction (MBSR), and a phytoestrogen-rich dietary regimen. Forty volunteers between 50 and 65 years of age were divided evenly between the intervention and control groups for a 12-week randomized controlled experiment. Three weekly sessions of structured functional training, daily mindfulness exercises, and individualized nutritional counselling were provided to the intervention group. Linear (SDNN, RMSSD, LF/HF ratio) and nonlinear (DFA α1, α2, SD1/SD2) parameters were used to evaluate the HRV. Overnight polysomnography was used to assess the architecture and quality of sleep, with emphasis on EEG spectral power analysis during the NREM and REM phases. Standardized neuropsychological instruments were used to evaluate cognitive abilities, such as executive function, working memory, and attention switching. A decrease in cortical hyperarousal was suggested by the results, which showed statistically significant improvements in short-term HRV indices (SD1 and RMSSD), increased high-frequency EEG activity during NREM sleep, and decreased beta activity during REM sleep. Additionally, participants in the intervention group showed improved cognitive performance, particularly in the areas of inhibitory control and task switching. Strong correlations between vagal tone and cognitive flexibility and between enhanced HRV patterns and EEG power modulation were found by correlation analysis. These results highlight how integrative lifestyle therapies can improve neurocardiac resilience and cognitive vigor in postmenopausal women. This study promotes individualized, non-pharmacological methods for treating autonomic and cognitive dysfunction associated with menopause.