Menopause happens naturally at the end of a woman’s reproductive life.  So why wouldn’t we treat the symptoms naturally?  Modern day science is always looking for ways to do things faster and easier, and I applaud this effort.  However, the problem with this system is the so called “cure” is often more hazardous than the original health issue.  

Most women now know that hormone replace therapy (HRT) carries far more risks than benefits.  And now they’re opting for natural alternatives to help treat the symptoms they experience during menopause like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.  Here’s a few options to try if you’re looking for relief:

Diet:  Your diet is one of the most important tools you have in your toolbox.  Avoid caffeine (coffee, chocolate, tea, soda, energy drinks). Carbonated beverages contain phosphorous which also increases the risk of bone loss. Limit the amount of meat (beef, pork and chicken) because the saturated fat decreases your body’s ability to metabolize estrogen.  Avoid sugar: Sugar in its raw state as well as food that converts to sugar quickly (alcohol, overcooked pasta, processed foods) lowers your immune system.  

Foods to add in to your diet include: whole grains, oats, wheat, brown rice, almonds, cashews, whole fruits and vegetables.  Soy in moderation is also a good option if you don’t have a history of thyroid problems.

When a client comes to me complaining of fatigue, my first recommendation is to get rid of artificial stimulants.  Coffee, soda, sugary snacks and junk food all fit into this category.  The best way to transition to healthier habits is to "crowd out" the old food and drinks with water, protein, healthy fats and dark leafy greens.  We can only eat and drink so much.  For example if we fill up with a snack of water with lemon and a handful of raw almonds, then chances are we won't be craving - or have room for - junk food.  It's a choice.  And we're in charge of making it.

Another thing we can do to alleviate cravings is to eat quality protein.  Organic whole grains and legumes; meat from organically raised, free range animals; and low-mercury content seafood.  Protein increases our metabolic rate and digests more slowly than carbohydrates so it lasts longer.

Incorporating healthy fats creates efficient energy and creates the building blocks for compounds that fight inflammation and maintain brain health.  Eggs, nuts, olive oil and seeds are a great source of healthy fats and eaten in moderation promote health.

When we're stressed, we quickly deplete certain vitamins like Vitamin B.  Green leafy greens like kale, spinach, collards and swiss chard contain these energizing B Vitamins which are critical for generating new cells.  They also contain antioxidants and dark green chlorophyll which helps repair and grow healthy tissues. 

So just by changing a few things in your life like eating healthy proteins, incorporating health promoting fats and dark leafy greens you can have long lasting, sustainable energy.  Not to mention all the health benefits!

Try to be mindful of the messages your body is sending you and how it's responding to eating healthy foods.