7 Natural Methods to Help Relieve Menopause Symptoms
Last month a scientist made a claim that got many women’s attention.
At Hay Festival, a multidisciplinary studies event in England, Dr. Aarathi Prasad revealed: “The mood of scientists working on this and looking to the future is we will either technologically or scientifically evolve out of the menopause.”
A 2012 study suggested that menopause evolved to limit competition between older women and daughters-in-law. Prasad went on to say there were no health benefits to women experiencing menopause.
This might sound like quite a provocative statement, but humans have several body parts that used to be vital to our existence but are now useless such as the appendix, the coccyx, and a trio of ear muscles that allow us to move our ears just like animals do (even if we have forgotten how to use these muscles).
For now, however, women still have to contend with the extremely uncomfortable effects of menopause, and so we suffer. While there are medications available to help deal with menopause symptoms, many women don’t like the idea of messing with Mother Nature, so to speak, and prefer a more natural approach.
There are some natural methods that women can use to allay the distressing manifestations of menopause.
1. Exercise
Exercise is absolutely critical. It has been shown to improve the whole gamut of menopause symptoms from hot flashes to mood swings. Also, don’t just focus on aerobic exercise, but also try strength training and relaxation techniques such as yoga. Exercise can be a powerful sleep aid, combating the sleep disturbances many women complain about.
2. Flaxseed
One study by the Mayo Clinic found the incidence of hot flashes was reduced by as much as 50 percent by consuming flaxseed. It is also thought to be very promising because, along with phytoestrogens, it also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can aid in mood stabilization. When compared to hormone replacement therapy, 40 grams of flaxseed was reported to be equally as effective in reducing hot flashes, vaginal dryness and mood disturbances.
3. Black Cohosh
Two German studies have shown black cohosh to be effective in reducing hot flashes. One study in particular showed 80 percent of women saw a decrease in hot flashes while using black cohosh. However, no long-term studies have been done and there have been reports of minor side-effects including upset stomach and low blood pressure.
4. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Fish isn’t just delicious; it contains a valuable ingredient that may help stabilize your mood swings too — omega-3 fatty acids. There have been some good studies attesting omega-3 can help improve mood. There’s also growing research that omega-3 fatty acids help fight heart disease. The best way to add this key ingredient to your diet is by eating fatty fish like salmon, tuna and trout.
5. Acupuncture
You wouldn’t necessarily think that sticking needles in your body would be a helpful way to cure menopause symptoms, but when combined with other treatments, it can be helpful. Some controlled studies have shown some effectiveness in some women for hot flashes. Both the World Health Organization and the National Institutes of Health recognize that acupuncture can be a helpful part of a treatment plan” for many illnesses, including menopausal symptoms.
6. Vitamin E
A study showed a slight effect in decreasing hot flashes for women using vitamin E. Along with reducing hot flashes vitamin E may carry with it extra benefits, such as fending off macular degeneration, lowering blood pressure, and slowing the aging of cells and tissues.
7. Alcohol
Who hasn’t felt the negative effects of drinking too much alcohol such as trouble sleeping or feeling flushed? This goes double for women during menopause. Women metabolize it worse than men and we metabolize it worse as we age. Alcohol can act as a trigger for hot flashes.
While it may seem daunting to go through menopause, it is a natural transition in our life and thus there are many options for you to look into for assistance.
If you have questions or need advice on how to treat menopause symptoms, please contact us. All About Women’s Gainesville and Lake City locations offer our patients treatment and symptom relief in a compassionate environment.
For further information about menopause, visit our Knowledge Center article: Recognizing the Signs of Menopause.
