How To Ease Menopausal Symptoms

There may be reasons to look forward to menopause, but for many women it's a time of a combination of emotional and physical misery. Hot flashes, sleepless nights, mood swings, vaginal dryness and other uncomfortable symptoms make for long days and even longer nights. The bad news is, this is a phase all women will experience. The good news is, there are many options to help control the symptoms of menopause that don't include drugs or major changes in lifestyle. Even simple changes can make a big difference in the duration and intensity of menopausal symptoms.

Menopause occurs at the end of a woman's reproductive cycle, and is defined as the cessation of menstruation as the ovaries decline. Twelve months without a period, and a woman can be fairly certain she has reached menopause. Of course, as the ovaries slow down and eventually cease to function, the hormonal levels in the body are also reduced. In the meantime, the hormonal levels will fluctuate and cause many of the uncomfortable symptoms listed above. However, there are some proactive actions a woman can take to help mitigate the symptoms through this natural process.

1. Eat healthy. A balanced diet is good for anyone, but it is especially important to a woman in menopause. There will be an increased need for Vitamin D, calcium and omega 3 fatty acids. Studies have shown foods like flaxseed and rich in soy will help with hot flashes due to the plant oestrogens.

2. Reduce stress. Not only is menopause a time of reduced hormones such as oestrogen, but also, studies have shown stress can also reduce oestrogen levels. The combination of the two can make a bad situation even worse. Make some time for meditation or yoga to help reduce stress levels.

3. Exercise. It's not only a good stress-reducer; it's beneficial to heart health, helps regulate weight and builds stamina and energy levels. A regular visit to a health club can provide time to oneself and better health – a win/win situation.

Menopause can be a lot to get through, but a few small changes will ease symptoms and improve the quality of life while nature takes its course. The bright side is, just like all things, menopausal symptoms will pass and a whole new life will open up. Eating healthy, reducing stress and exercise can help make the journey a lot easier to get through.

By: Mandy Waters

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