Ways to Manage Menopause Symptoms

By Ashley Watson

Are you going through menopause or have a patient experiencing the myriad of symptoms that are associated with this natural change? Then you know that sometimes the symptoms can be difficult to manage. While hormone therapy has been the conventional recommendation by many doctors, the National Institute of Health (NIH) reports that certain studies have “raised questions about the safety of hormone therapy” for menopausal women. Luckily, there are many other ways menopausal women can manage their normal symptoms.

As always, we recommend that you speak with your doctor before taking any herbal or vitamin supplements. There are a number of supplements on the market that are designed for women who are going through menopause. Understanding the symptoms is one way we can help you and your doctor choose which one is right for you.

What to Expect

Many women are not sure what to expect before they reach menopause. The good news is that the symptoms won’t last forever. Dr. Sherry Sherman is head of the different research programs funded by NIH’s National Institute on Aging. She states, “Hot flashes can be severe and highly disruptive. We used to think that they lasted for 2 or 3 years, but our studies have shown that for some women they can last a lot longer—up to 7 or 10 years.”

All symptoms are reported to disappear once women reach postmenopause. Because every woman is different in terms of overall health and genetics, symptoms will vary. However, there are some common symptoms that many women experience, including the following:

• Hot flashes
• Night sweats
• Irregular periods
• Mood swings
• Weight gain
• Memory loss

While managing these symptoms can be accomplished through doctor-recommended herbs, vitamins and minerals, keep in mind that the symptoms may not fully subside until women reach postmenopause. Here are just a few supplements and herbs that have been known to help support a healthy transition during menopause.*

Black Cohosh

Black cohosh (known as both Actaea racemosa and Cimicifuga racemosa), is a member of the buttercup family, and it is also commonly known as black snakeroot, bugbane, bugwort, rattleroot, rattletop, and rattleweed, and macrotys. This herb is now recognized by the medical community for its effectiveness in helping women with symptoms during menopause.*

Resveratrol

Resveratrol is a phytoestrogen that supports bone health, provides free-radical protection, and supports cardiovascular health.* Other studies indicate that in combination with vitamin D it can support a healthy weight in menopausal women.* Resveratrol has also been known to affect aging and sleep.* Getting an adequate amount of sleep can help support many of the body’s functions, which can support the regulation of menopause symptoms.*

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is known as an antioxidant that supports heart muscle strength and circulation.* This can help those with hot flashes and night sweats, according to some research.* Vitamin E is often recommended for hot flashes based on the results of these clinical trials.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.