8 Methods That Will Help To Control Hot Flashes During Menopause!

[LoShiNi]

Women who are going through menopause often experience hot flashes, along with other symptoms, such as mood swings and weight gain. Fortunately, there are ways to keep your hot flashes under control.

Below is the list of most popular remedies, choose what’s best for you!


1. Hormone replacement therapy




It has proven to be highly effective, but it has a number of side effects. If you want to start hormone replacement therapy, you should discuss this option with your doctor at length. Don’t forget to mention the details of your medical history and medications you’re taking.


2. Soy




Soy contains isoflavones — substances that may help reduce hot flashes. But its effects haven’t been studied completely. Marji McCullough, ScD, RD, writing for the American Cancer Society, advises to refrain from taking soy isoflavone supplements until there are more conclusive study results. So it’s better to add soy products, such as soy milk, tofu, tempeh, and steamed soy beans, to your diet and see if it works for you.


3. Black cohosh
Black cohosh is a well-known remedy for hot flashes. It’s still unclear how it works in your body, but it has proven to be effective. But here is the catch: there are no studies of long-term use of black cohosh, so it should be taken with reservation. There are reports of side effects, including abdominal pain, jaundice, dark urine, headaches, and rashes.




4. Relaxation techniques
If you decrease the levels of stress, hot flashes happen less often. Yoga and meditation are on the list of methods that can help. Or you can try any other activity that helps you relax, such as reading a book or listening to relaxing music.



5. Cool down




Make your room cooler by turning on the AC or a fan, or just open a window. If you can’t change the temperature of the room you’re in, remove a layer or two of clothing when you feel a hot flash coming on. Choosing cotton clothes over synthetic fabrics is also recommended.



6. Control your diet
Some foods and drinks can trigger hot flashes. Spicy foods, coffee, and alcohol are common culprits. You can try Mediterranean diet – there is a study that shows it can help with reducing hot flashes.



7. Quit smoking
Smoking can make hot flashes worse. Giving up decreases the risk of other health problems too, e.g. heart disease, stroke, and cancer.



8. Antidepressants
Antidepressants, particularly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), can help reduce hot flashes and other symptoms. Ask your doctor whether they are a good option for you.