Natural Response: remedies to ease jetlag

How do I cope with menopausal flushes especially in hot weather ?

Naturopathic nutritional expert Irene McCabe:

WHY do some women suffer excessive flushing and other menopausal symptoms whilst others sale through "The change"? In my experience, there is a direct correlation between the severity of menopausal symptoms and how healthy your adrenal glands are before menopause kicks in. Menopause should occur without difficulties if your adrenal and thyroid glands are functioning optimally. Symptoms of adrenal fatigue practically mirror image symptoms of menopause but this fact is often overlooked. When your ovaries stop working, your little adrenals kick in to help balance the lower ovarian hormonal production. If your adrenals are already over worked through physical or mental stresses, their response to this extra work load is "I'm out of here!" and that's when menopausal symptoms can arise

The following supplements may help:

Maca Root which is a wonderful Peruvian adaptogenic herb that helps balance the body's functions, including hormonal balance It is a nutritional powerhouse with high levels of 10 minerals, 23 essential fatty acids and nearly all the required amino acids

Vit B Complex: The vitamin group that helps brain function and balances the nerves, helping reduce stress and ultimately helping adrenal function

Magnesium: The relaxing mineral. Helps relax the blood vessels in turn helping reduce hot sweats

Omega 3 6 7 & 9 Helps support memory function and relieves inflammation. Omega 3 is a good source of lignans, which tend to balance female hormones.

Sugar, Hot and spicy foods, caffeinated drinks and alcohol can all trigger sweating. Phytoestrogens found in Schisandra Berries, Goji Berries, Green Tea, Hops or Linseed/Flax Seed can also help

Medical herbalist Nikki Biddiss:

OESTROGEN is believed to prime the body to react to temperature change and fluctuating levels at the menopause can cause the body to become sensitive to even the slightest rise. But oestrogen may not be the only cause of hot flushes: more recent research implies that over-activity of the stress hormone noradrenaline and lower levels of the brain hormone serotonin may also be involved.

Many women successfully manage menopausal symptoms naturally and here are my tips for dealing with hot flushes in the heat:

Clothing- wear natural fibres like cotton and ensure they are loose-fitting and comfortable. Bedclothes should also be light and keep your bedroom cooled and well -aired.

Drinks- avoid hot drinks opting for tepid or cold drinks instead. Sage tea is traditionally used to combat flushing and night sweats. Drink it warm or once cooled, keep it in the fridge or beside your bed to sip anytime you get hot. Avoid caffeinated drinks including fizzy drinks.

Relaxation- deep breathing exercises can shorten or reduce the frequency of flushes by triggering the parasympathetic nervous system into action. Breathe in deeply for 5 seconds then slowly exhale to the count of 5, repeat this for a few minutes at least twice a day.

Quick solutions- carry a water spray for a quick spritz or dip a scarf or facecloth in water and place it around your neck or on your forehead. Alternatively carry a fan and gently fan your temperature back down. Other people may not even notice so keep calm.

Complementary therapy is not intended to replace the advice or treatment offered by your GP. In all cases before visiting a therapist your GP should be consulted.

Nikki Biddiss is a Medical Herbalist, aromatherapy massage therapist and stress and wellbeing coach. Irene McCabe is a Naturopathic Nutritionist and has been an Independent Nutritional Researcher for over 30 years. Irene also practices Allergy and Intolerance Testing and Advanced Clinical Hypnotherapy and is the former owner of Napiers in Glasgow's West End. For consultations call 0141 339 5859