Menopause is a normal stage of a woman's life that's caused by a decline in the hormones estrogen and progesterone and eventually marks the end of fertility, according to the National Institute on Aging (NIA). You know you have reached menopause when you haven't had a period for 12 months in a row. Menopausal women may experience uncomfortable symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness and become susceptible to a weakening of the bones. Certain natural supplements may offer relief from the effects of menopause.
Soy
Soy contains plant-based estrogen-like compounds called phytoestrogens, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC). It's suggested that a class of phytoestrogens called isoflavones may relieve hot flashes and other classic signs of menopause.
Brazilian researchers found that isoflavones may safely and effectively treat menopausal symptoms while benefiting the cardiovascular system. The findings of the study were published in March 2009 in the journal "Obstetrics and Gynecology."
Flaxseed
Flaxseed and flaxseed oil contain phytoestrogens called lignans. Preliminary research suggests that flaxseed oil may help treat mild menopausal symptoms. The Mayo Clinic says further studies are needed to draw a firm conclusion about the potential benefits of flaxseed and flaxseed oil for menopausal women.
Calcium
A drop in estrogen levels make menopausal women more prone to developing the bone-weakening disease osteoporosis. The North American Menopause Society suggests that postmenopausal women get 1,000 to 1,500 mg of calcium daily in divided doses to maintain bone health.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D helps the body absorb calcium. The recommended intake is 400 IU for women between age 50 and 70, and 600 IU for women over 70, according to the UMMC.
A University of Minnesota Public Health study published in September 2007 in the journal "Cancer Causes and Control" found vitamin D intake of 800 IU per day to be associated with a small decrease in breast cancer risk among postmenopausal women.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may offer some relief from mild menopausal hot flashes, according to the Mayo Clinic. The typical dose of vitamin E is 400 IU per day.
An Iranian study published in 2007 in the journal "Gynecologic and Obstetric Investigation" concluded vitamin E appears to be beneficial for the treatment of hot flashes for postmenopausal women.
Black Cohosh
Black cohosh is suggested as a treatment for hot flashes, vaginal dryness, irritability and moodiness that may occur during menopause. While research has been mixed, some evidence seem to supports these assertions reports the UMMC. The suggested dose is 20 mg., twice daily.
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