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Menopause Supplements

Women are increasingly choosing natural herbal remedies for menopause symptoms. For some HRT isn’t an option and for other’s they prefer to try more natural solutions where possible. It’s a very individual choice and one that should be discussed with your GP. This article looks at some of the best herbal remedies for hot flushes and other menopause symptoms.

Herbal remedies have been traditionally used for thousands of years and each can bring it’s own unique support. When it comes to choosing the best herbal remedy for menopause symptoms it can be a bit of a minefield. So here is a run down of some of the best natural menopause remedies. Research backed remedies that really work.

Phyoestrogens

Phytoestrogens include isoflavones, coumestans, and lignans. You’ll likely be consuming some of these already as they are found is some fruit, veggies and whole grains. Soybeans, red clover, alfalfa sprouts and oil seeds (such as flaxseed) are the most significant dietary sources of isoflavones, coumestans, and lignans, respectively. Making these soy, red clover and alfalfa popular ingredients in menopause supplements for hot flushes.

Studies have been carried out in humans, animals and cell cultures. Research suggests that dietary phytoestrogens play an important role in prevention of menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, cancer, and heart disease. Whilst there are currently are no dietary recommendations for individual phytoestrogens, consuming a more plant based diet is absolutely of benefit.

Soya Isoflavones and Red Clover

Isoflavones have gained popularity as an alternative treatment to HRT for menopausal symptoms. More and more women are looking to support their symptoms with natural remedies. In addition there are women for who HRT is unsuitable. HRT is very much an individual decision and one that should be discussed with your G.P. You’ll typically find isoflavones in natural menopause supplements for hot flushes.

The studies conducted confirm that soya isoflavones can have hormonal effects. Alongside benefiting menopause symptoms, these effects may be of benefit in the prevention of many of the western world’s common diseases. Such as breast cancer, prostate cancer and osteoporosis. Diseases where the diet is typically devoid of these biologically active compounds.

Isoflavones are estrogen-like compounds that can help to modulate the effects of the stronger estrogen and testosterone produced by the body. A meta-analysis of eight trials demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in the daily ocurrence of hot flushes in the women receiving red clover in comparison to those receiving a placebo.

Hot flushes and night sweats are common menopause symptoms. They are the symptoms that most women seek treatment for. It’s acknowledged that these symptoms can greatly reduce quality of life.

Studies show high levels of isoflavones are found in soya and red clover. These can halve the number and severity of hot flushes. Along with helping to relieve other menopause symptoms. Symptoms including as irritability. Vaginal dryness and symptoms of vaginal atrophy also showed a significant improvement from these isoflavones.

How often to take isoflavones menopause supplements? Studies suggest that a 2x to 3x daily dose frequency may improve the benefit of isoflavones for hot flushes and night time symptoms. Especially if you have symptoms during the night, taking a capsule before bed may give better results. However, larger studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Wild yam

Wild yam was the starting material in the manufacture of “the Pill”. The root and bulb of wild yam contain the chemical diosgenin. Diosgenin can be made into steroids. These include estrogen and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). It’s often used as a natural alternative to estrogen therapy for vaginal dryness in older women, for PMS (premenstrual syndrome), menstrual cramps, weak bones (osteoporosis), low energy levels and sex drive. All the typical menopause symptoms. Wild yam creams can also be applied to the skin to reduce menopausal symptoms and hot flushes.

There have also been studies of the estrogenic activity and cellular effect of wild yam extract in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Encouraging data results indicate that wild yam extract acts as a weak phytoestrogen and protects against proliferation in human breast carcinoma MCF-7 cells.

Studies also suggest Wild yam and Broccoli may protect against osteoporosis, breast and gynecological cancers. Although further evidence is required.

With this type of research Wild Yam is an ingredient to have on your list when looking at the best menopause supplements for hot flushes.

Sage leaf

Sage leaf contains diterpene bitters, volatile oil and flavonoid. It has a tonic effect on the female reproductive system. Recommended for irregular menstruation and menstrual cramps. Sage’s estrogenic effects can be beneficial to symptoms of anxiety, fatigue, night sweats, hot flushes and mood swings.

Sage and Alfalfa were studied in combination in the treatment of hot flushes. Of the 30 menopausal women. 20 women’s hot flushes and night sweating completely disappeared. Four women showed good improvement. The other six showed a reduction in symptoms. Concluding that they are an effective in the treatment of menopausal symptoms.

Pffafia

Pffafia known as Brazillian Ginseng, has been used for thousand of years by Amazon Indians. It’s known as adaptogen and as a restorative tonic. Pffafia has been extensively studied by American and Japanese scientists. It’s proven to be very popular with women with hormone imbalance and going through the menopause or PMS in these countries. Pffafia is rich in plant sterols. Plant sterols that are thought to have estrogenic properties.

Schizandra chinensis

Wu-Wei-Tzu, known as schisandra / schizandra in the West. It’s been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries. Hundreds of studies have confirmed it has adaptogenic effects. Known as being an adaptogen that can fortify and strengthen the body, enhancing resistance to disease and stress. A bonus ingredient in menopause supplements. Effects include the central nervous system stimulation, hepatoprotective effects and potential anticancer potential.

Hops

Hops contain natural plant estrogens, volatile oil and resin. Scientists have now discovered that the hops plant may contain one of the most powerful phytoestrogens ever identified. This potent compound – known as 8-prenylnaringenin or 8-PN – effectively combats menopausal complaints and shows promise in protecting against bone loss and heart disease. So when it comes to the best herbal remedies for hot flushes this is one to have on the radar.

Alfalfa

Alfalfa is a nutrient-dense food. Rich in chlorophyll. Rich in vitamins A, B6 and 12, C, D, E, K and P. It’s mineral content includes magnesium, calcium, phosphorous and potassium. Alfalfa is a rich source of alkaloids, isoflavones, sterols and essential enzymes. Alfalfa is cooling and astringent and used to relieve menopause symptoms, including hot flashes and night sweats. A handy ingredient to have in your menopause supplements hot list for hot flushes.

Siberian ginseng

Ginseng is a tonic herb, which can support health and well-being. It’s an adaptogen that helps the body perform at optimum levels and to counter the ill-effects of stress. Ginseng is a rich source of phytonutrients and eleutherosides. Used by many women for menopause relief.

Atriplex halimus

A highly nutritious plant, often known as Mediterranean saltbush. It’s high in protein, plus vitamins A, C & D. It’s mineral content includes Chromium. Chromium is proven to contribute to the normal macronutrient metabolism and to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels. A key ingredient when it comes to weight management.

Kelp

Sea kelp is a rich source of nutrients. It contains natural source of vitamins A, B1, B2, C, D and E. Plus minerals zinc, iodine, magnesium, iron, potassium, copper and calcium. It contains the highest natural concentration of calcium of any food. Kelp contains 10 times more calcium than milk. Kelp supports the thyroid gland, which is a key sex gland stimulator and regulates the metabolism. It’s used to relieve menopausal symptoms, such as hot flushes, mood swings and another key ingredient for menopause weight loss. With the vast majority of women experiencing menopause weight gain it’s another key ingredient to look for.

Best vitamins for menopause

Approved EFSA health claims:

• Vitamin B6 is the vitamin that balances hormones.
• B6 contributes to the normal function of the immune system, the regulation of hormonal activity, normal cysteine synthesis, normal energy-yielding metabolism, normal homocysteine metabolism, normal protein and glycogen metabolism and the reduction of tiredness and fatigue. See the EFSA scientific opinions.

• Zinc is an important mineral when it comes to reproductive health and testosterone.
• Zinc contributes to normal DNA synthesis, normal acid-base metabolism, normal carbohydrate metabolism, normal cognitive function, normal fertility and reproduction, normal macronutrient metabolism, normal metabolism of fatty acids, normal metabolism of vitamin A, normal protein synthesis, the maintenance of normal bones, the maintenance of normal hair, nails and skin, the maintenance of normal testosterone levels in the blood, the maintenance of normal vision, the normal function of the immune system, the protection of cells from oxidative stress and it has a role in the process of cell division. See the EFSA scientific opinions.

Recommended Menopause Supplements For Hot Flushes

DISCLAIMER The information provided on www.prettypea.blog is for education purposes only. The information provided is based on my own experience as well as my own interpretations of current research available at the time. This page does not provide medical advice; it is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Never ignore obtaining or following professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the internet. Always seek professional medical advice.

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