Natural alternative hormone therapy remedies are an option for many women who wish not to replace their loss of estrogen with synthetic prescription hormones. There are several herbs, minerals and vitamins that are successfully used to treat menopausal symptoms including vitamin D, calcium and vitamin C.
When using natural methods as therapy the goal is to strengthen the body and help promote balance during the menopausal transition period. Alternative hormone therapy also involves a change in diet to help the body deal with the many changes it will go through during menopause.
Natural remedies are favorable to many women because they are generally safer to take and they do not have as many risks or side affects as some prescription hormone drugs.
Common Alternative Hormone Therapy: Soy and Black Cohosh
Soy is a very popular alternative hormone therapy treatment. Studies show that Japanese women who consumed large amounts of soy products had fewer hot flashes and night sweats. Similar studies conducted in the United States have also shown this to be true with American women. The soy products to consume include soy milk, soy nuts, and tofu and soy beans.
Herbalists insists that the herb Black Cohosh is a very effective alternative hormone therapy treatment that works to combat menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, heart palpitations, mood swings and insomnia.
Several studies have shown that Black Cohosh is effective, but some studies that show there was no difference between those who took the herb and those who did not. Yet many consumers claim Black Cohosh relieved their menopausal symptoms.
Diet For Alternative Hormone Therapy
Changes in diet and nutrition are important for alternative hormone therapy to be effective. There are various types of foods that will help the body cope with hormonal imbalances. Foods that are best to eat to help reduce symptoms of menopause include fresh fruits and vegetables that are rich in potassium such as oranges, melons, bananas, dried apricots, spinach, kale, collard greens, broccoli and cabbage.
Foods high in fiber are also recommended such as nuts, salmon, raisins, dried beans and brown rice. Foods that should be avoided include alcohol, caffeine, spicy foods and fried foods because these foods are known to worsen menopause symptoms.
Using hormone therapy for weight loss is also recommended. Losing weight will enhance the mood and make the body healthier and more susceptible to treatment.
It is important to note that health care professionals should be consulted before trying any alternative hormone therapy method.
