10 Foods That Ease Menopause Symptoms

Ground flaxseeds

These fun little seeds help provide extra fiber and some healthy fatty acids. They help increase sex hormone-binding globulin, which keeps estrogen and testosterone in check to maintain hormone balance.

Wild cold water fish

Think salmon and sardines for the brain boosting and skin nourishing omega-3-fatty acids. Fish oil has also been known to help lower triglyceride levels and reduce arthritis symptoms through anti-inflammatory properties. Konstantin Kirillov/PhotoSpin

Plain, all natural yogurt

Besides containing calcium, yogurt provides the live active cultures to help keep women regular and prevent constipation, gas, and bloating. Yogurt also provides a quick, easy snack to keep cravings at bay while providing good protein. Make sure to choose the plain version so you do not overload on sugar, which is counteractive in menopause.

Lemons

Besides tasting yummy in water, lemons are known for their mild detoxification properties, digestive support due to their bitter flavor, and their cooling ability in drinks, which can help with those hot flashes. Lemons are a great additive for women who do not like the taste of water or prefer to drink water that is flavored without the extra sugar or artificial flavorings. Jordache/PhotoSpin

Broccoli, kale & cauliflower

Also known as cruciferous vegetables, broccoli, kale and cauliflower help the liver clear out estrogen.This is done through a compound known as diindolylmethane (DIM) in order to increase 2-hydroxy-estrogen. This may help reduce breast cancer risk and improve estrogen balance. Francesco Perre/PhotoSpin

Grass fed organic protein

In order to reduce synthetic hormones entering the body, protein should ideally be hormone-free. Increasing protein while lowering carbohydrate and sugar intake also helps with maintaining weight and reducing elevated glucose levels. A small protein-only snack before bed may help those who wake up in the middle of the night due to crashing blood sugar. MonkeyBusiness Images/PhotoSpin

Brazil nuts

These nuts are high in selenium which is an important antioxidant and helpful for thyroid function. As women age and go through menopause, the thyroid is at higher risk of being affected negatively. Selenium helps keep the thyroid on track by protecting the gland and improving T4 to T3 conversion. Jaimie Duplass/PhotoSpin

Almonds

Eating a small portion of almonds per day (1/4 cup) helps improve vitamin E levels, which can reduce hot flashes and night sweats. They can also be nourishing for the skin. Almonds provide an all-natural source of vitamin E along with good fats and protein. Alena Ozerova/PhotoSpin

Leafy greens

Chock full of nutrients, leafy greens are a great way to increase vitamin levels such as vitamin K, which is important for bone health and people who bruise easily. Be aware though, vitamin K should not be taken with certain medications such as anticoagulants and blood thinners. MonkeyBusiness Images/PhotoSpin

Dark chocolate

Really just to satisfy cravings and for peace of mind, chocolate is truly therapeutic. Dark chocolate has antioxidant properties and contains magnesium which is beneficial for cramps and muscle spasms, plus helps with relaxation. Natika/PhotoSpin