Women embrace new methods of transitioning through life stage

Recently, researchers in charge of the Women’s Health Initiative’s (WHI) post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy (HRT) trial interrupted the study when results suggested that synthetic hormones may increase the risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. While experts sort through the data and attempt to assess the threat, natural-source menopause methods—often referred to as phytoestrogens or bioidentical hormones—are rapidly growing in popularity (Azoulay, 2004).

Although some of these natural methods are derived from botanical sources, such as leaves, stems or roots, several come from food products like soy or yams. Many women report promising physiological and cognitive results, such as fewer hot flashes, better sleep patterns and improvements in mood, libido and memory.

Aging Beautifully
All women over 35 experience declining estrogen levels and, eventually, menopause. They and their families struggle with the impact of this natural life stage on their physical and psychological well-being. Myths, misinformation and misconceptions about menopause abound. For some women, the end of their childbearing years may be welcome, but in others, it can represent a loss. Millions of dynamic, spirited women are embracing the positive perspective: just because you’ve “lost” your fertility doesn’t mean you’re losing your sexuality.

Some women are alarmed by some of menopause’s other signature signs, including hot flashes, lack of quality sleep and others. Clinical researchers, though, have revealed some good news: you can minimize these signs significantly with two lifestyle modifications—getting regular exercise and maintaining a nutritionally-balanced diet (Tworoger, 2003; O’Dell, 2005). Since menopause is a natural occurrence in your reproductive life, why not deal with it in a natural way?

It’s Only Natural
Exercise can be fun, and ought to be an important part of anyone’s daily life, experts maintain, but it’s especially essential if you aim to combat menopause-related bone-density loss or weight gain. Weight-bearing exercise, which helps boost metabolism and even can offer protection against hip fractures should be balanced to include some cardio-endurance, muscle fitness and flexibility activities.

Your diet is also an important tool. Avoid excessive amounts of caffeine and carbonated beverages (they contain phosphorous which can increase bone loss). Limit consumption of saturated fat (it decreases the body’s ability to metabolize estrogen). And forego extra sugar; it hinders your liver’s ability to metabolize natural female hormones.

Researchers have also studied several other unique natural compounds that appear to provide valuable ways to face menopause. Consider flavonoids, the large group of compounds and pigments responsible for the colors of many fruits, vegetables, herbs and flowers. Numerous phytoestrogen substances called isoflavones belong in the flavonoids category. One group of isoflavonoids, ipriflavones, may increase bone calcium retention, inhibit bone breakdown and promote activity of the bone-building cells (Brown, 2000). Phytoestrogen isoflavone supplements were shown to decrease the incidence and the severity of vasomotor complaints, including night sweats (Russo, 2003).

Heading Off Hot Flashes
Once you experience a hot flash, you likely would prefer to avoid another. With the natural options available today, let Mother Nature help you through those heated times caused by sudden drops in estrogen levels (Kang, 2002). Although evidence on natural remedies for hot flashes is not yet conclusive and testing is ongoing, some nutrients can help.

RED CLOVER: Red clover supplements have been shown to have a significant positive effect on bone health, the cardiovascular system and even promoting breast health. Further evidence suggests that an isoflavone supplement containing red clover may help manage hot flashes (Lukaczer, 2005).

BLACK COHOSH: For centuries, Native Americans have consumed black cohosh for gynecologic difficulties, while historical records suggest that Europeans have ingested the herb since the 1800s. Its widespread use was based on observations that black cohosh helped to ease menopausal signs such as hot flashes, night sweats, dizziness, fatigue and palpitations. A recent large-scale University study identified black cohosh as gentle and effective for menopausal signs, primarily hot flashes and mood swings (Geller, 2005).

 

Make You Feel Like A Natural Woman
Menopause is “natural.” Therefore, it makes sense that natural interventions that can improve your quality of living during this time. Engaging in regular exercise, eating a healthy diet and making use of natural-source supplemental nutrients, vitamins, minerals and enzymes which can help you take control of your own well-being, so that you can fully embrace this stage of life and make it as positive as possible.

 

References

Azoulay, C. et al. (2004). Menopause in 2004: “Hormone replacement therapy” is not what it used to be anymore. [In French.] La Revue de Médecine Interne, 25(11), 806–815.

Geller, S.E. & Studee, L. (2005). Botanical and dietary supplements for menopausal symptoms: What works, what does not. Journal of Womens Health (Larchmt), 14(7), 634–649.

Ion Health Newsletter. (2001). Mineral Resources International. Retrieved online December 14, 2005 from http://www.mineralresourcesint.com/pdf/ionhealth/ih2001.pdf

Kang, H.J. et al. (2002). Use of alternative and complementary medicine in menopause. International Journal of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, 79(3), 195–207.

Lukaczer, D. et al. (2005). Clinical effects of a proprietary combination isoflavone nutritional supplement in menopausal women: A pilot trial. Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine, 11(5), 60–65.

O’Dell, K. (2005). Exercise can diminish woes of menopause. OzarksHealth. November 29. Retrieved online December 1, 2005 from http://www.news-leader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20051129/LIFE04/511290306/1035.

Russo, R. & Corosu, R. (2003). The clinical use of a preparation based on phyto-oestrogens in the treatment of menopausal disorders. [In Italian.] Acta Biomed Ateneo Parmense—Acta Bio-Medica De L’Ateneo Parmense: Organo Della Societa Di Medicina E Scienze Naturali Di Parma, 74(3), 137–143.

Tworoger, S.S. et al. (2003). Effects of a yearlong moderate-intensity exercise and a stretching intervention on sleep quality in postmenopausal women. Sleep, 26(7), 830–836.