Black Cohosh and soy contain plant estrogens, called phytoestrogens that help to balance hormone levels in men and women by mimicking estrogen's effects. These phytoestrogens bind to hormone receptors in the uterus, breasts, and other parts of the body lessening hot flashes, vaginal dryness, headaches, dizziness, and depression. If you experience frequent hot flashes, a potassium supplement may also be necessary as potassium is an important electrolyte lost through sweating.

Night Sweats and Tissue Dryness

Flaxseed oil contains Omega-3 fatty acid and lignans (fiber) which act as phytoestrogens, helping to balance hormone levels. Flaxseed oil also helps to relieve inflammation. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) help the body manufacture estrogen, which is often lacking after menopause.

Bone Loss and Vaginal Dryness

Vitamin E is important in estrogen production. It is an antioxidant that aids in improving circulation and is necessary for tissue repair and is useful in treating PMS. It promotes normal blood clotting and healing and reduces blood pressure. It acts like an estrogen preventing bone loss after menopause. Vitamin E oil can be used as lubricant for post-menopausal dryness. In addition to Vitamin E, Boron aids in calcium absorption and the prevention of bone loss that can occur after menopause.

Mood Swings and Sleep Disruption

Yoga and exercise keep your body fit and healthy, boosting your immune system and your body's natural ability to withstand physical and mental stresses. Yoga tones your body while simultaneously relaxing you, allowing for more restful sleeps and toned down mood swings.

Overall Health

Maintaining a healthy diet is key to relieving menopausal symptoms; what you put into your body has a direct effect on how you feel. Be sure to eat plenty of foods high in fiber such as vegetables, whole grains, and fruits, plus fish, soy products, low-fat yogurt, and kefir. Try eating 6 to 8 smaller meals spaced out through the day instead of two or three larger meals.

Avoid caffeine, colas, refined sugar, processed foods, saturated fats, red meat, and dairy products. Dairy products and meat promote hot flashes, while also contributing to a loss of calcium from the bones. Alcohol, caffeine, sugar, and hot foods and drinks may also trigger hot flashes, aggravate urinary incontinence, and make mood swings worse. These foods also make the blood more acidic, prompting the bones to release calcium as a buffer, contributing to bone loss.

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