The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that hot flashes are common in women who are experiencing menopause. In fact, up to 75 percent of women experience these surges of heat and a flushing feeling that affects the upper body. Though these flashes are not dangerous, they cause discomfort in many women. However, a variety of medications can help these sudden hot flashes, caused by hormonal changes. In addition to prescribed medications, there are some natural remedies that can help cool down the "private summers."
Dietary
Amanda McQuade Crawford, author of The Natural Menopause Handbook, suggests that women change their dietary behaviors to reduce hot flashes. She advices that women not partake in the pleasures of hot, spicy food, which can spike body temperature and produce hot flashes. She also recommends women eliminate alcohol and caffeinated products and that women will do much better with hot flashes if they also reduce sugar intake, which tends to increase metabolism and can generate heat to ignite a hot flash.
Vitamins
According to Carolyn Dean, author of Menopause Naturally, vitamin E can help reduce the severity and frequency of hot flashes. She recommends 400 units twice daily. In addition, it is essential to remember that hot flashes can exhaust our bodies of the vitamins B and C as well as important minerals, such as magnesium and potassium; therefore, a good multivitamin could help decrease hot flashes.
Herbs
Susan Weed, author of the Wise Women Herbal Series, says black cohosh is a good herb for reducing hot flashes because it contains compounds that can mimic estrogen, thereby simulating a balance of hormones. Wild Yam and red clover both contain isoflavones, which can aid in relieving hot flashes. Dong Quai can help reduce flushing and the sweating that accompany hot flashes. These herbs come in tinctures, teas and capsules and should be taken as directed.
Change of Lifestyle
The Mayo clinic suggests that women who experience uncomfortable hot flashes might get relief by making some simple lifestyle changes. It is suggested that women try to stay cool and keep their body temperature down. This can be done by keeping the room cool, wearing free flowing clothing and staying in cooler places. The Mayo clinic also suggests that women should find ways to relax to help with hot flashes. This can be achieved through meditation, yoga, deep breathing, and stress management.
References
- The Mayo Clinic
- The American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologist
- Menopause Naturally; Carolyn Dean; 1999
