Flushing, pressure, fast heartbeat and sudden temperature increase--hot flashes are an unpleasant, yet common side effect of menopause. While the exact mechanism that triggers hot flashes is unknown, flagging estrogen levels in the body can affect your hypothalamus--the body's thermostat. Also known as "power surges," hot flashes can be embarrassing and uncomfortable. One way to help minimize their effects is by a healthy diet high in a few key vitamins.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that may be able to diminish hot flashes and negative effects of menopause. BreastCancer.org recommends taking about 800 IU per day. You also can incorporate vitamin E into your diet by eating foods like eggs, wheat germ, whole grains and nuts. However, vitamin E may not help all women. Vitamin E also has been shown to contribute to healthy thyroid function. Along with the brain, the thyroid is another important body part that regulates metabolism and temperature.
Vitamin B-6
Vitamin B-6 is a vitamin necessary for a number of bodily functions. BreastCancer.org recommends taking a 200 to 250mg supplement of vitamin B-6 each day. Suggested effects from taking vitamin B-6 include fighting uncomfortable bloating that results from menopause and reducing emotional symptoms that can accompany your hot flashes, including anxiety, irritability and insomnia. If you are taking hormone replacement therapy, vitamin B-6 can be reduced in the body, making supplementation a positive remedy.
Peridin-C
Peridin-C supplements are vitamins also known as bioflavonoids, which are considered an alternative medicine supplement. They are derived from the rinds of green citrus fruits, rose hips and black currants. Peridin-C is said to reduce inflammatory conditions and enhance the body's abilities to use vitamin C. Bioflavonoids also have a mild estrogenic effect on the body. BreastCancer.org recommends taking two tablets three times per day to reduce hot flashes and other menopausal symptoms. If using another bioflavonoids supplement, follow the dosage directions.
Warning
Talk to your physician before increasing your intake of any vitamins or supplements to ensure they will not interfere with medications you currently take. If you still have severe hot flashes after taking supplements, your physician may recommend hormone replacement therapy. Also, if you have a medical condition like rheumatic heart disease, high blood pressure or diabetes, vitamin E can adversely affect your health.
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