Hot flashes are a menopausal side effect that result from hormonal fluctuations in the body, according to the Mayo Clinic. An estimated three out of four menopausal women experience these hot flashes during the menopausal period. Hot flashes cause intense feelings of heat and pressure, flushed appearance, rapid heartbeat and sweating. While rarely dangerous, hot flashes can be uncomfortable and inconvenient. One method to combat them can be to control what you eat --- certain foods can contribute to hot flashes, while others can reduce their incidence.
Eat Regular Meals
Keeping a busy schedule or experiencing frequent hot flashes may make it difficult for you to consume regular meals. However, regular, nutritious meals can help to reduce your hot flash symptoms, according to CVS Health Resources. The longer you go between meals, the more likely you are to experience an increased incidence of hot flashes.
Flaxseed
Emerging research has revealed that sprinkling ground flaxseed on your food, or taking a flaxseed oil supplement, may help to reduce the incidence of hot flashes, according to CVS Health Resources. Flaxseed can be purchased in most health food stores or discount superstores. The ground version can be added to cereal, salads, yogurt or smoothies.
Avoid Nutritional Triggers
Certain foods are associated with contributing to the intensity of a hot flash, according to Breastcancer.org. When creating a nutritional plan for reducing hot flashes, eliminate the following triggers: alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods. These foods are associated with triggering hot flashes and should be avoided. Serving your foods very hot may also trigger a hot flash. If you are experiencing a particularly troublesome period of hot flashes, you may wish to minimize the amount of hot foods you consume.
Soy
Although studies are mixed on the overall effectiveness of soy in reducing hot flashes, research-based evidence suggests that consuming soy products may help to reduce hot flashes. In Japan, women consume high amounts of soy on a daily basis and are significantly less likely to experience hot flash symptoms, according to Health Castle. Soybeans contain substances called phytoestrogens, similar to estrogen. One to two servings of soy per day may help to produce estrogen-like effects in the body, reducing menopausal issues according to Health Castle. Ways to incorporate soy into your diet include soy milk, tofu and edamame.
