Nutrition Supplements Which May Help During Menopause
The biggest issue of menopause in women is the lessening of estrogen in the body. The lack of estrogen will bring on such symptoms as hot flashes, mood swings, and depression to name just a few. Women need estrogen to prevent osteoporosis and heart disease but because you can no longer produce it naturally, you need to get it in other ways.
Your doctor may prescribe a hormone replacement drug if that is what he or she feels you need. Many women prefer not to take drugs and prefer other, more natural supplements. There are many supplements available in your pharmacy and supermarket which can help to replenish lost estrogen.
Some of the dietary and nutritional supplements are:
· soy,
· calcium
· magnesium
· Vitamin C, D & E
· Omega-3 fatty acids
· Black Cohosh
· Vitamin K Soy is found in certain breads, in soybeans and soymilk, as soy nuts or in granola bars, which are very healthy eating. Soy products may be purchased in the health section of your local supermarket or in any specialist food store. An additional bonus of eating soy is that it is low in fat and cholesterol free. Calcium is very important for building your bones and preventing osteoporosis. Some foods rich in calcium are dairy products, leafy green vegetables, black molasses, almonds and dried beans. Calcium tablets are also available if you feel you are not getting the amount you need from your daily food intake. Magnesium helps the body to absorb the calcium that's in your body so it's important to have them both. Again, leafy green vegetables, black molasses, as well as nuts, pumpkins, wheat germ and soy bean products all contain relatively high concentrations of magnesium. Vitamin C and E may help some women avoid certain medical conditions brought on by menopause. Long-term use of Vitamin C has been known to decrease the risk of heart disease and increase bone mass, which is vital to help prevent osteoporosis. Studies also indicate that taking Vitamin E on a daily basis can also lower the risk of heart disease and stroke after menopause. Food sources of Vitamin E are wheat germ, nuts (walnuts, almonds, and hazelnuts), vegetable oil (canola, corn, soybean, and safflower), spinach, kale and sweet potatoes. Omega-3 fatty acids are found in fish oil and fish, specifically salmon or flaxseed oil. These have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and decrease the risk of heart disease. Black Cohosh has been recognized by medical officials in Britain and Germany as one of the best natural remedies for menopause because of its ability to imitate estrogen in the body. It is a very popular alternative to conventional estrogen therapy drugs. Numerous studies have found it to relieve: · Hot flashes
· Sweating
· Headaches
· Mood swings and depression
· Vaginal dryness
· Cramps
· Water retention Medical studies suggest that 45 milligram of Vitamin K daily may help prevent bone loss. Vitamin K can be found in green tea, turnip greens, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, asparagus and dark green lettuce. Some of the supplements and foods mentioned may be different from what you are used to, but most of them are probably part of your daily diet without you realizing it. You'll be eating what you enjoy, helping your body to stay healthy in the process, and lessening your menopausal discomforts.
Menopause And Pregnancy
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