During this transitional time in every woman's life, doctors often recommend hormone replacement therapy to ease the symptoms of menopause. These symptoms are mostly brought on by the hormonal imbalances that occur when the ovaries begin to function less efficiently. Fortunately, there are natural alternatives to bring the hormones back into balance and provide relief to the 100,000 American women who will enter menopause every month. Vitamins, minerals and other supplements may be just the answer you have been looking for.
Vitamin E
According to Dr. Gary Null the production of certain brain hormones such as FSH (follicle stimulating hormone) and LH (luteinizing hormone) are promoted by consuming vitamin E. Both are secreted by the pituitary gland and regulate ovulation processes. These hormones are also vital preventatives of hot flashes. Vaginal dryness can be reduced with vitamin E, as well. Synthetic forms are not as effective as natural sources such as vegetable oil and mixed tocopherol forms.
B Vitamins
During the menopausal years, the B vitamins are especially important. According to a study conducted at the Bastyr Center for Natural Health in 2003, folic acid may even act as a hormone replacement alternative and can help prevent changes in the cervix that may precede cancer. The B vitamins work together to maintain liver health, balance brain functions, and eliminate stress and depression. Consuming adequate amounts of vegetables, nuts, and grains can provide beneficial amounts of the B vitamins. Since hot flashes can deplete the body of these necessary vitamins, taking a sublingual B complex may also be necessary.
Calcium
With osteoporosis being an emerging problem during menopause, calcium is a very important mineral at this time. Dairy products are often hard to digest for women, so other sources may be needed such as calcium citrate and calcium carbonate. Non-dairy sources include tofu, collard greens, spinach, and salmon. The body requires at least 1300 mg of calcium daily and may need more if assimilation is difficult.
Phytoestrogens
Also known as plant estrogens, phytoestrogens work in the body much like natural estrogen, only on a lesser scale. Isoflavone is a phytoestrogen that can be found in soybeans and can help to relieve vaginal dryness and hot flashes. Herbal sources include wild yam, which can also produce progesterone for better hormonal balancing. Alfalfa, blessed thistle and sarsaparilla can also serve as natural sources of both phytoestrogens and progesterone. Black cohosh and red clover are also rich in phytoestrogens. Dong quai is yet another herb that contains phytoestrogens, and has been proven effective in relieving menopausal symptoms within three menstrual cycles, according to Dr. Gary Null.
References
- "Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing"; Gary Null, Ph. D, 2005
- USDA: Food Sources of Selected Nutrients
- Nutrition Action Health Letter: Phytoestrogens for Menopause
- Bastyr Center for Natural Health: B Vitamins May Reduce Cervical Cancer Risk
