Description

Menopause is commonly defined as the cessation of the menstrual cycle in women for a period of one year and typically occurs between the ages of 40 and 55.  Perimenopause is the period of time prior to menopause, while postmenopause refers to the period of time following menopause.

Common conditions associated with menopause include:

- Hot flashes

- Loss of libido

- Memory loss

- Inability to concentrate

- Insomnia

- Osteoporosis

- Cold hands and feet

- Anxiety / irritability

- Depression

- Headaches

- Atrophic vaginitis

It is unclear whether the symptoms of menopause are a natural part of aging.  It is interesting to note that women in many cultures around the world do not experience them, even though they have hormonal patterns similar to women in industrialized countries.  Dietary and/or environmental factors may play a significant role in the development of these symptoms.

Causes

Primary:

- Changing hormone levels as the result of no longer ovulating

Factors that can worsen symptoms:

- Smoking

- Nutrient deficiencies

- Toxin exposure - e.g., heavy metals

- Physical inactivity

Treatment Approaches

- Shift to an anti-inflammatory diet that includes a reduction in saturated animal fats, trans fats, fried foods, and sugar, an increase in potassium- and magnesium-rich foods (e.g., fruits & vegetables) and dietary fiber, adequate filtered water, and a balanced intake of essential fatty acids.

- Supplement to help manage symptoms and avoid deficiencies, e.g.:

      - Antioxidants

      - Minerals - e.g., magnesium, calcium

      - Essential fatty acids

      - Herbals - e.g., vitex, black cohosh

- Avoid future environmental toxin exposure, and reduce existing toxin levels in the body.

- If smoking, try to stop on your own or join a smoking cessation program.

- Incorporate regular, moderate exercise.