Alternative Therapies for Menopause

Menopause can be very disruptive in the lives of women who experience hot flashes, mood swings, and other symptoms.  Hormone therapy scares have led many women to seek alternative treatments for menopausal symptoms such as osteoporosis and postmenopausal cardiovascular disease.

 

Alternative therapies for irritability and depression during menopause are also being explored.  Below are some remedies that are believed to alleviate menopausal side effects:

 

·         Soy – Scientific tests show that bone density is increased and depression, irritability and hot flashes are lessened. Although soy can decrease some symptoms associated with menopause, large amounts must be ingested for it to be completely effective.

 

·         Natural Progesterone – Extracted from plant sources, “natural” progesterone has been widely used to treat menopausal symptoms, but no scientific evidence exists to prove its effectiveness.

 

·         Fish Oils – Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil can be a positive component in preventing cardiovascular disease in menopausal women.  You can get it through the consumption of fish or via a fish oil capsule if it’s more convenient.

 

·         Magnesium – Studies have found that the use of magnesium significantly increases bone mineral density in both the elderly and menopausal women.

 

·         Evening Primrose Oil – Commonly used to treat symptoms associated with menopause, Evening Primrose Oil may reduce hot flashes and depression.

 

·         Black Cohosh – An herb that’s used extensively in Europe to treat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes.

 

·         Exercise – Women who exercise regularly are found to suffer from menopausal symptoms much less than sedentary women.

 

·         Red Clover – An herb that is sometimes used to prevent cardiovascular disease in menopausal and post-menopausal women.

 

            Non-traditional, alternative therapies have been used for centuries to treat menopausal symptoms in women. While these therapies can be effective, be sure to consult with your health care professional before you begin such treatment – especially if you suffer from another condition that might be adversely affected.