Education & FAQs

Menopause Support

Written by Karen May, DC, CCSP, CCIP | Jan 19, 2023 3:32:04 PM

What is Menopause?

Menopause signals the end of a woman's menstrual cycle, and usually begins 12 months after a woman's last period.  For most women, the transition to menopause starts between ages 45-55, lasting 7-14 years. While most women naturally cycle into the menopause, some may experience pre-menopause from the effects of chemotherapy, a hysterectomy, or other causes of damage to ovaries.  

During menopause, many women experience painful and draining symptoms that can make daily life activities challenging. Some common menopause symptoms include:

  • Uneven or missed periods
  • Hot flashes
  • Vaginal dryness
  • Sore breasts
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Emotional changes
  • Changes in libido
  • Headaches
  • Joint problems

Natural Support for Menopause

If you are looking for natural ways to alleviate symptoms of menopause, I highly recommend Dr. Aviva Romm (website: avivaromm.com/). With years of experience as an MD, midwife, and herbalist, Dr. Romm has put together comprehensive resources for many women's health issues. Here are a few of her tips for naturally alleviating menopause symptoms: 

  • Plant-based diet rich in phytoestrogens: cupfuls of cooked greens like kale, collard greens, broccoli, and Napa cabbage daily, as well as legumes such as garbanzo beans and lentils.
  • Add Flax Seed, 1 TBS fresh ground daily, to your daily diet
  • “Fatten up”: Ample good quality dietary fat, including olive oil, coconut oil, butter or ghee, and walnut oil, as well as fresh avocado is necessary for maintaining hormone synthesis. (If you are underweight you have a higher risk of having hot flashes) 
  • There is no connection between good quality dietary fat and a higher risk of high cholesterol – with olive oil it’s just the opposite!

For more, visit Dr. Romm's post on menopause: https://avivaromm.com/herbal-remedies-hot-flashes-night-sweats/

Supplements for Menopause

In addition to my tips above, here are some of my favorite supplements to help make the transition into menopause smooth. 

Panax Ginseng - NOW Foods

Ginseng has been shown effective in alleviating menopause symptoms, depression, well-being and general health. Take this for 6-12 weeks, and take your last dose before 6PM so it won't keep you awake. 

 
Estrovera - Metagenics

This unique blend is created to provide relief for menopausal symptoms including: hot flashes, sleep disturbances, anxiety, irritability, and mood swing. 

 
Relaxing Sleep - Herb Pharm

Designed to promote relaxation and restful sleep, Relaxing Sleep is a unique blend of therapeutic plant compounds. 

 

Pycnogenol - NOW Foods

Pycnogenol supports a health immune system, and helps to maintain a normal immune system response to metabolic stress. 

 

Conclusion 

With a few lifestyle changes and these great supplements, you can stay happy and healthy during the menopausal transition. 
  1. Panax Ginseng - NOW Foods
  2. Estrovera - Metagenics
  3. Relaxing Sleep - Herb Pharma
  4. Pycnogenol - NOW Foods

Visit my FullScript Dispensary to view all of these products and more by clicking the button below! 

Like with any recommendation- Please make certain it is right for you and follow the instructions on the bottle and read any caution warnings that may apply to you especially if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.  These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration.  This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.