With the sudden drop in estrogen levels that a woman undergoes during menopause, hot flashes, disruption in the menstrual cycle and even depression are common symptoms that brings great stress and discomfort.
Furthermore, the side effects of menopause cannot be ignored. For example, it is often accompanied by even more health problems such as a higher chance of developing osteoporosis and other heart diseases. It is thus important to ensure that your body is in the best of health during menopause.
Missing a period or two may not necessarily constitute menopause. There are many products out there available that help women detect whether they are going through menopause. They come in the form of tests kits and work by measuring the follicle-stimulating hormone, which is found in higher levels among women with menopause. However, like a pregnancy test, such test kits may not be entirely accurate, and women are recommended to receive confirmation from doctors.
To address the pains and discomforts when a woman does go through menopause, menopause products often target the hormonal changes that take place in the body.
According to The Good Housekeeping Institutes, natural supplements can aid in easing hot flushes and night sweats.
Such supplements include black cohosh, evening primrose oil and soy isoflavones. However, women who are opting to take such supplements are encouraged to consult their doctor, as such herbs may react to any medicines currently taken. Furthermore, ensure that the dosage of supplement is in line with recommended levels, as an overconsumption of such herbs may increase the risk of breast and thyroid cancer.
If taken appropriately, such herbal remedies have indeed been proven to ease the symptoms of menopause.
Other products menopausal women should look out for include products that help prevent osteoporosis. This is because the risk of osteoporosis rises when a woman reaches menopausal age.
Calcium supplements should be taken to ensure bone strength. From the recommended 1000 miligrams a day, menopausal women should begin taking 1200 miligrams a day to ensure healthy bones. Vitamin D is also a supplement great in promoting bone health. This can also be supplemented by simply stepping out into the sun, as the body naturally synthesizes vitamin D when the skin comes into contact with ultraviolet rays.
Research:
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/story?id=127936&page=1
https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminD-HealthProfessional/