Hot flashes--the intense feeling of heat that comes over your entire body as quick as a flash--is uncomfortable, but unfortunately, a part of life for many women who have reached menopause. Hot flashes are the most common menopause symptom, according to the North American Menopause Society (NAMS). During menopause, your body's hormone levels are fluctuating. These changes, along with changes to your body's internal thermometer, the hypothalamus, can cause you to flush, sweat and become overheated from time to time. Some women may be able to manage their hot flashes naturally through diet. Natural food remedies for hot flashes can include flax and soy products, as well as cool drinks.
Flaxseed
According to the Mayo Clinic, post-menopausal women who do not use conventional hormone replacement therapy may be able to reduce the number of hot flashes they experience by consuming flaxseed. Flaxseed is a product of the flax plant, and contains a compound called phytoestrogens. Though phytoestrogens are not the same as the hormone estrogen, they can act in the same way on the body, which means a woman can appear to have more estrogen in her system, and more estrogen can lead to fewer hot flashes. Flaxseed is available in capsule form, but the seeds themselves can be crushed and sprinkled into salads, on cereals and yogurt, and even baked into breads and muffins.
Soy
Soy products may also mimic the hormones in the female body, providing some natural relief from hot flashes. Soy, including soybeans, soymilk, tofu and tempeh, contain a substance called isoflavones. Isoflavones, like phytoestrogens, act like estrogen, and can minimize some of the symptoms of menopause, including hot flashes. The North American Menopause Society suggests that eating 25 g of soy products each day can reduce the occurrence of hot flashes as much as 30 percent in some cases. NAMS also reports that eating soy-based foods can be more beneficial than taking soy supplements. The World's Healthiest Foods website reports that soy is a food that younger women should eat as well, to reap the benefits of better cardiovascular health and a lowered risk of osteoporosis.
Cool Beverages
Cool beverages such as ice water, decaffeinated iced tea and juices may help you battle hot flashes simply because they keep your body temperature down. Breastcancer.org explains that avoiding spicy foods, hot drinks and caffeine can all be helpful in preventing hot flashes because these items all cause your body temperature to rise. On the flip side of the coin, actively lowering your internal thermometer can also play a role in lessening the number of episodes you experience.
