The smartest approach to menopause is to try the least harsh, most natural treatments first: change your diet, increase supplements, reduce stress levels, avoid caffeine and stop smoking – use acupuncture, herbs, massage and meditation first.
Dietary changes:
When selecting foods for health, a rule of thumb is this: the closer to the natural state, the healthier.
Include in your diet, whole grains such as brown rice, whole-wheat pasta, legumes, oatmeal, corn and baked potatoes in plenty.
Avoid flavorings such as butter. Instead, eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are excellent fiber sources.
Cut back on the red meat and emphasize lean cuts as well as fish and chicken.
Studies have shown that some foods that contain phyto-estrogen help ease the symptoms of menopause caused by lack of estrogen. This remarkable substance actually acts like estrogen in the body by stimulating estrogen receptors on the cell walls in the skin, breast, uterus and vagina which is beneficial for menopausal women.
The estrogen-containing foods that have been found to raise blood levels of estrogen are: soy, tofu, linseed oil, black cohosh and red clover sprouts. Supplements containing this vital plant hormone may help you to restore the 'imbalances'.
Increase the intake of essential fatty acids (EFA). Balances of EFA will help direct your hormones, reduce vaginal dryness, and improve mental outlook. The balance includes Omega-3, Omega-6, and GLA.
Foods high in Omega-3 salmon, tuna, flax, and pumpkin seeds. Omega-6 is found in nuts, seeds, and soybeans.
GLA are found in evening primrose, black currant or borage oils. Wild yam extracts act as natural progesterone precursors and has been seen to be effective in relieving hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and insomnia.
No comments:
Post a Comment