According to MayoClinic.com, women in good health who experience menopausal symptoms may benefit from short-term hormone replacement therapy, or HRT. However, since the Women's Health Initiative studies concluded estrogen and the synthetic progesterone, progestin, increase the risk for heart disease, stroke and breast cancer, women who are concerned about the safety of HRT are interested in natural alternatives. As with all alternative remedies, it is important to consult with a health care professional before supplementing the diet with vitamins or herbal products.
Bioidentical Hormones
Bioidentical hormones are identical in structure to the hormones produced by the body. Although they may be custom mixed by compounding pharmacies according to the specific needs of each individual, commercial preparations in the form of creams, patches and pills are also available. Many natural progesterone creams and lotions are available without prescription; however, the efficacy of these products is unproven. According to Dr. Mary Gallenberg of the Mayo Clinic, bioidentical substances may be less effective and riskier than FDA-approved hormone replacement therapies. However, evidence from the French E3N research group suggests that women who take bioidentical hormones have the same or less risk of stroke and blood clots than women who do not take hormone replacement of any kind.
Diet
Refined sugars, spicy foods, coffee, tea, alcohol and sodas may increase the frequency or severity of hot flashes, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Because menopausal women may be at an increased risk for heart disease, a well-rounded diet rich in fruits and vegetables, whole grains, fish and lean meat will help to maintain a healthy weight and prevent the onset of cardiovascular disease. Intake of processed foods, added sugar and salt should be minimized or avoided all together. Sweet potatoes, yams, beans and seaweed contain phytoestrogens, naturally occurring hormone-like compounds believed by some to alleviate menopausal symptoms. However, there is no evidence to support the claim, states the UMMC.
Supplements and Herbal Remedies
Herbs such as black cohash, dong quai, evening primrose oil and red clover are sometimes used to alleviate menopausal symptoms, according to the American Family Physician. And although some evidence suggests soy isoflavones may provide temporary relief of symptoms, study results are inconsistent and the long-term effects of therapy are unknown. Adult women over the age of 50 require a minimum of 1,200 mg of calcium and 600 IU of vitamin D each day to help prevent bone loss that can result from the reduction in estrogen production. While sunshine and a healthy diet may provide an adequate amount of both nutrients, some physicians may recommend adding a quality supplement to the daily diet.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Hormone therapy: Is it right for you?
- MayoClinic.com: Bioidentical hormones: Are they safer?
- NaturalNews.com: Bioidentical Hormones do not Raise Stroke Risk
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Menopause -- Lifestyle Changes
- American Family Physician: Nonhormonal Therapies for Hot Flashes in Menopause
