If you are one of the three-quarters of women who experience hot flashes as a symptom of menopause, you know how uncomfortable they can be, and what kind of impact they can have on your daily activities. The sudden rise in temperature, night sweats, nausea, headache, or any of the other burdens of hot flashes can strike day or night, and can make you miserable for as little as a few seconds, or up to several minutes. Menopause is a naturally occurring part of life for any woman, so rather than simply dealing with hot flashes, find out what you can do to minimize their effect and frequency. Many women have found hormone replacement therapy to be an effective menopause treatment, but you may be able to find relief with these five natural remedies.
Stay Cool
Seems pretty obvious, right? While your body is going through the many changes of menopause, it can be sensitive to slight increases in core temperature. It is a good idea to dress in layers, so that you can remove a layer if you start to feel warm. Summer is quickly approaching, so using fans and air conditioning will be an essential part of keeping cool. If you have control of the temperature settings, try lowering it a bit, and if you think a hot flash may be coming on, try sipping on a cold drink.
Eat Healthy
There are a number of foods out there that have been found to contribute to hot flashes. Certain things like dairy products, meats, caffeine, alcohol, and spicy foods can all possibly increase your chances of experiencing a hot flash. Once you’ve identified your triggers, it will be easier to avoid them. Instead, go for non-GMO soy foods to satisfy your body’s need for protein. Foods like soybeans and other products that contain estrogenic compounds (genistein and daidzein) may be able to help control hot flashes.
Reduce Stress
Even in non-menopausal women, stress may lead to hot flashes due to an increase in body temperature caused by adrenaline being released into the blood. The hormonal levels in menopausal women are constantly changing, and this can lead to chronic stress. Reducing stress could help relieve hot flashes. Try meditation, slow deep breathing, listening to calming music, or other stress-reducing activities.
Vitamin E Intake
Vitamin E has been shown to reduce the intensity of hot flashes experienced by menopausal women. A study performed by Tarbiat Modarres University tested the effects of vitamin E on 54 patients. Upon completion of the study, it was found that patients who took the vitamin E soft gel cap experienced a reduction in the severity of hot flashes.
Dress Comfortably
Tight fitting or warm clothes can make hot flash symptoms worse. Women should opt to wear loose clothing that is light and airy, especially around the vaginal and abdominal areas. Stay cool and comfortable to reduce the number of hot flashes you may experience during the day.
Following these recommendations can be a great way to find relief from hot flashes. If you experience severe episodes, you should consult your doctor to find out what other options are available. Additionally, you can learn more about clinical research for hot flashes here.
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