Menopause and other hormonal conditions can cause hot flashes. African-American women report more menopausal hot flashes than women of European descent. This vasomotor response occurs at a higher frequency in women who don't exercise and have a high body mass index. Exercise to lose weight in order to reduce your risk of future hot flashes, or to reduce the severity of the hot flashes you are experiencing now.
Hot Flashes
Not all women experience hot flashes during menopause. Hot flashes belong to a group of vasomotor symptoms, which also include heart palpitations and night sweats. While some women tolerate hot flashes well, others find this symptom very bothersome. Treatment includes hormones, weight loss and exercise. During a hot flash, you may experience a number of symptoms, including a rapid heartbeat, the feeling of pressure in your head, and blotchy skin on your face, neck and upper chest.
Weight Loss
Overweight and obese women who lost weight with the help of counseling, a restricted-calorie diet and exercise were twice as likely to see an improvement in hot flashes compare to those who only received counseling, according to a study conducted by the University of California San Francisco Department of Medicine and published in the July 2010 online edition of the "Archives of Internal Medicine."
Exercise
Evidence suggests that aerobic exercise can improve hot flashes and other vasomotor symptoms in women going through menopause, according to a systematic review of randomized controlled trials published in the July 2009 issue of the journal "Maturitas." Low-intensity exercise like yoga also appears to reduce hot flashes. However, the review noted that more research is needed to make further evidence-based conclusions regarding the efficacy of exercise to reduce hot flashes.
Increase Activity Level
Reduce hot flashes by making small lifestyle changes to increase your activity level. Find activities you enjoy, such as going to the park with your grandchildren, swimming at the local pool or taking dance classes. Use the stairs instead of the elevator, and park a little farther away from the store than usual.
