Menopause Emotional Supplements

Hormonal fluctuations normally occur as a woman transitions into a new biological life stage, such as menopause. Some women experience emotional changes during menopause, including mood swings, tearfulness, irritability and depression. Imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels cause mood disorders during menopause, but additional causes include the pressures in life such as self-image issues related to aging, work or marriage problems and caring for elderly parents.

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds help relieve menopausal symptoms, including emotional imbalances, according to the BBC Health website. Flaxseed contain high levels of the essential fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid, which converts to omega-3 fatty acids in the body. Omega-3 fatty acids improve cognitive performance, and have a role in balancing hormones.

Evening Primrose Oil

Evening primrose is a medicinal flower. The oil is derived from the plant's seeds and confers high levels of the essential fatty acid gamma-linolenic acid, which improve hormone balance, according to the BBC Health website. Gamma-linolenic acid increases omega-6 fatty acid levels in the body. The University of Maryland Medical Center recommends accompanying the supplement with an increase in omega-3 fatty acids, such as the addition of flax seed, because the body needs a balance of both types to function normally.

Calcium and Magnesium

Calcium and magnesium help treat nervousness and irritability, according to nutritionist Phyllis A. Balch, author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." A deficiency of the minerals interferes with the transmission of nerve and muscle impulses, causing irritability and nervousness. Food sources include salmon, sardines, kelp, tofu and leafy green vegetables.

B Complex

The family of B vitamins supports the nervous system, which malfunctions and causes emotional imbalances when you experience excessive stress, according to Balch. The B vitamins assist enzyme reactions and help process proteins necessary for maintaining energy metabolism in the body. Slowing energy opens vulnerability to mood disorders. The B-complex vitamins are found in a variety of foods, including grains, meat, eggs, milk, fish, legumes and fresh vegetables.

References

Article reviewed by Eric Lochridge Last updated on: Jan 27, 2011

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