Menopause is a natural life occurrence for women, who are nearing the end of their reproductive stage of life. So, it only seems logical to treat the symptoms of menopause with alternative and natural remedies.
Traditionally, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) was the main form of menopause treatments, but research has shown, that synthetically produced progestin and estrogen may increase the risk of heart disease or breast cancer. It is for this reason that more and more women are seeking alternative methods to treat their menopausal symptoms, such as mood swings, night’s sweats, and hot flashes. Below are the top 7 alternative treatments for menopause:
1. Diet: Choosing the right foods and avoiding wrong types of foods can have a positive impact on overall health. For instance, bones may not deteriorate, as quickly, if caffeine and carbonated drinks are avoided. Carbonated drinks, for example, contain phosphorous, which can promote bone loss.
Also, stick to farm fresh and organically raised meats (such as chicken, pork and beef). There may be lower amounts of saturated fats in organic meats. When there is too much-saturated fat in a female’s body, the ability to properly metabolize estrogen decreases. In addition, excessive amounts of sugar in the body will severely impair the immune system, as well as limit the liver’s ability to metabolize estrogen effectively.
It is recommended, that foods that should be incorporated in a women’s diet include: cashews, almonds, brown rice, fresh vegetables, fresh fruits, and foods that contain phytoestrogens.
2. Promensil has been shown to decrease hot flash occurrences by almost 60%. Also, women reported that night sweats severely declined. There is no prescription needed to reap the benefits of this supplement, as it can be readily found in local health food stores or pharmacies. The daily recommended dose of this supplement is 40mgs.
3. Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidus are “good” types of bacteria that are found the intestines. These cultures are very important, especially for women who are experiencing menopause, as it helps to metabolize and use estrogen, as it is intended. Many health care professionals believe that the more “good” bacteria that is present in the body, the more that yeast infections may be reduced.
4. Red clover isoflavones supplements have been studied, and the results have been published in the Journal of the British Menopause Society. Controlled clinical studies have revealed, that this supplement has shown improved overall cardiovascular health. This supplement also kept bones healthier and stronger for longer periods of time. In addition, the risk of endometrial and breast cancer may be reduced. The evidence also showed that red clover may reduce the occurrences and durations of hot flashes (a common complaint among women who are menopausal).
5. Vitamin E can aid in reducing nights sweats, as well as the duration and intensity of hot flashes when an average of 600 IU are taken on a daily basis. Vitamin C will aid in the absorption of Vitamin E, as well as increase the power and strength of fragile capillaries when 1,000 to 2,000 mg are taken on a daily basis.
6. Calcium is important for bone strength, but when it comes to an alternative treatment for menopause, calcium citrate or microcrystalline calcium hydroxyapatite calcium (MCHC) is the recommended choice. About 1,500 mg is the daily recommended dose. Magnesium is another essential mineral for menopausal women, because it is vital for the absorption of calcium. The recommended daily dose of magnesium should be between 500 and 750 mg.
7. Exercise performed on a regular basis (three to four times a week) will help to keep menopause weight gain to a minimum, and also improve a women’s overall health. Constant exercise will reduce and even prevent bone loss, as well as negative heart conditions.
Bonus
Below are a few more alternative choices to treat menopause that many women have found to be helpful.
A. Black Cohosh (20 to 60 mg taken three times a day).
B. Dong Quai (500 to 1,000 mg taken two or three times a day).
C. Evening Primrose Oil (500 mg taken three to four times a day).
D. Ginseng (100 to 500 mg taken three times a day).
E. Vitex Agnus Castus (150 mg taken once a day).
Conclusion
Each woman is unique, and although the above mentioned alternative treatments for menopause do work for some women, it may require some trial and error, to find the best alternative menopause treatment (or combination of treatments), that will be the most effective for you.
Remember, it is important that you inform your attending physician of any and all alternative and natural treatments (which includes herbs, vitamins, and topical creams), that you are currently using or considering using.
References:
https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/menopause-center/
https://www.glozine.com/lifestyle/health/supplements-to-ease-menopause.html