Many women struggle when they reach the menopause. The lifestyle changes below can make all the difference between either sailing or struggling through this time.
Drinking six to eight glasses of cool water flavoured with a slice of lemon or lime tastes good and boosts our vitamin C levels, increasing energy levels and mood.
Food rich in phytonutrients such as lentils and chickpeas or tempeh help balance oestrogen levels. So having meals that include these twice to three times a week is a great idea.
Including cold water fish - such as sardines, salon and skip jack tuna -in meals three to four times a week is also good for hormone health due to the omega 3 content. So swapping meat for fish at least this often is a good idea for women who usually eat meat. If you are vegan, nuts and seeds are also a great source of omega 3 oils.
Enjoying at least two serves of fresh fruit and five to six serves of vegetables a day gives us energy and plenty of antioxidants.
Heating, spicy food can be a problem so cut out the vindaloo curries for the time being...
Wearing clothes made from natural, breathable material such as hemp or cotton helps with hot flushes. Also wearing plenty of layers means we can easily strip down a layer or two when needed.
Having a cold shower before going to bed, using cotton or hemp sheets and keeping a fan by the bed can help make nights cooler.
Alcohol may need to be cut down or even out as it taxes the liver. This is already working overtime trying to keep our hormones in order.
Stress makes hot flushes worse- so try deep breathing if you feel a hot flush coming on. To chill out long-term, yoga, Tai Chi and meditation are good stress- busters.
Replace coffee and tea with herbal teas. A good dried herbal infusion to stop hot flushes is:
sage 1 teaspoon,
spearmint ½ teaspoon and
lavender flower ½ teaspoon of dried herb.
Steep 2 teaspoons of the herbal mix in a cup of boiling water for 10 minutes. Keep covered . Strain. Drink 2-3 cups day.
If these changes don't help you- or you are on medication, it is best to book a consult with a natural health practitioner before trying any herbs or supplements.
DISCLAIMER: