Best supplements for hot flashes

Information on Menopause

Menopause is medically defined as a full year without menstrual cycles. It affects women who are in their forties and fifties. The process of transition to menopause is called perimenopause and it can take up to 6 years to be complete. The process can be smooth or it can involve certain so called vasomotor symptoms among which are also hot flashes.

Hot flashes can sometimes continue for many years after menopause has been established. There is no specific treatment for menopause but in some cases it can be treated with the hormone replacement therapy. Women who suffer from menopause induced hot flashes need to modify their lifestyles by exercising regularly, managing their weight, quitting smoking, and drinking and so on.

Supplements

Among numerous different supplements that can be used for the prevention and treatment of hot flashes, phytoestrogens are perhaps the most popular. They are plant based products which have an activity very similar to estrogen. Phytoestrogens block the action of the estrogen molecules in the human body. There are three types of phytoestrogens.

Isoflavones can be found in red clover, beans and soy products. Lignans can be found in flaxseed. Red clover is also rich in third type of phytoestrogens called coumestans. Soy products can be very beneficial for those who suffer from hot flashes. A product called Nutrafem can be used for the prevention and treatment of hot flashes but it is not recommended since there are no scientific facts to support the claims that it is totally safe and that it poses no risks nor will it trigger any side effects.

Red clover is rich in isoflavones but certain studies have shown that it is actually not that effective as the companies they make it claim to be. Flax is a remarkable source of fiber, omega-3 fatty acids, lignin phytoestrogens and alfa-linolenic acid. It can be used for the treatment and prevention of hot flashes but it also may interact with warfarin so it is not recommended for those who are already taking that medication.

Black cohosh is another supplement that can be used when it comes to the prevention and treatment of hot flashes although its efficacy and safety data are yet to be confirmed by scientific studies.

Another supplement called dong quai can be used but it should be avoided because it may contain certain substances that are actually carcinogens. Evening primrose oil and wild yams can also be used for the treatment of hot flashes but they too should be avoided.