The Menopause
The Menopause is a natural stage of life. Some pass through it without problem. Others look for ways to relieve symptoms, feel better, or reduce risks of, for instance, osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.
Many of the effects of the menopause can be eased by attention to lifestyle and diet.
LINK: www.netdoctor.co.uk/diseases/facts/menopause.htm
Hormone replacement therapy
There is good evidence to support the use of HRT to relieve vasomotor (hot flushes, sweats) and urogenital (vaginal dryness etc.) symptoms, and in the prevention and treatment of osteoporotic fractures. Further potential benefits include cardiovascular protection, decreased likelihood of developing Alzheimers.
Caution is needed -in women with active breast cancer or an undiagnosed lump, in women with active thromboembolic (clotting) disease, in women with undiagnosed vaginal bleeding and in women with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Osteoporosis
National Osteoporosis Society 01761 471771
Osteoporosis Screening Company 0800 371989
Osteoporosis Screening by Ultrasound, 01628 632012, St. Marks Hospital, Maidenhead
Osteoporosis Screening by Bone Densitometry - Private Hospitals/ NHS referral
Diet and nutrition
Women who maintain a healthy diet - high in fresh and preferably organically grown vegetables and not so high in high-fat dairy products and meat seem to pass through the menopause more easily. A well balanced diet, keeping a high water intake, moderate alcohol intake ,low caffeine intake is helpful.
Phytoestrogens are found in soya-bean type products such as tofu, misu and the beans themselves. Too much soya may cause intestinal gas and discomfort.
Calcium and magnesium are essential for strong bones -combine with vitamin D for proper absorption
Jane Clarke's book… Body Foods for Life (Weidenfeld and Nicolson ) £14.99 Jane runs her own consultation service in Frith Street , Soho
Natural progesterone
Trial data regarding efficacy in reducing fracture risk is awaited. For this reason doctors may be reluctant to prescribe it. Anecdotal evidence suggests that it may be effective in reducing menopausal symptoms.
The Natural Progesterone Information Service 0700 560878
Herbal remedies
Black cohosh (cimicifuga racemosa, remifemin) - three trials suggest may reduce hot flushes and psychological symptoms. . Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) may prevent migraine attacks. Side effects include mouth ulcers and gastrointestinal symptoms after long term use.
St. John's Wort (hypericum petforatum) is used to allieviate mild to moderate depression and menopausal symptoms. Reacts with many medications -ask your pharmacist/doctor
Valerian (Valeriana officinalis) may improve sleep.
Kava (piper methysticum) may relieve anxiety.
Chasteberry (vitex) Siberian Ginseng
Homeopathic remedies
Apart from a few 'first aid' remedies (Sepia for dry vagina and flushes, Belladonna for hot flushes and night sweats) homeopathic remedies are best prescribed by a practitioner. See Homeopathy
The Faculty of Homeopathy 0171 5667810
other options
chiropractic, osteopathy, acupuncture, acupressure, aromatherapy, hydrotherapy, massage, yoga, reflexology, Bach Flower remedies
Amarant Trust - 0891 660620
Inner Woman - 020 74351849
Men's Health Line - 020 89954448
Reader's Digest Guide to Vitamins, Minerals and Supplements
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