Natural Tips for Menopause

Some sail through, but perimenopause can be a very tricky time of life. This is a huge subject with as many nuances as there are women going through it, but here I will give a few generalised tips for natural remedies that can be beneficial. Please do remember that the information shared here is not meant to be medical advice or for diagnostic purposes. You should always consult your physician or therapist where your own personal health circumstances are concerned. 

Begin with the bowels 
Bloating and so many other digestive discomforts can increase as oestrogen declines, so making sure that your digestive system is functioning well is tantamount. Understanding what foods your body can tolerate and what foods you should avoid is specific to you, so following an eating routine that’s perfect for your best friend might be detrimental for you. 
•    Avoid processed foods, sugar, sweeteners, alcohol
•    Eat plenty of fibre, vegetables, protein, and “good” fats
•    Drink enough water and add electrolytes when you sweat a lot, if you wake up feeling very thirsty, or if drinking more water just makes you need the loo constantly 
•    Take probiotics consistently for a couple of months at a time to help balance your gut microbiome
•    Peppermint or ginger can help calm digestive discomfort when it arises 
•    Try to eat slowly and whilst calm

Herbs for hot flushes 
Herbal remedies can be potent and effective but can also interact with medication. Once you have chosen the right herbal combination, start with slow introductory doses to see how they suit you. 
•    Herbs that can mimic oestrogen in the body and thus reduce the effects of fluctuating and diminishing oestrogen levels include Sage and Red Clover. 
•    Agnus Castus can help to increase progesterone levels
•    Herbs that help to mimic progesterone by acting on the GABA pathways, calming the nervous system, include Lemon Balm, Valerian, and Californian Poppy
•    Motherwort and Chamomile are often used for calming the nervous system. 

Sleep solutions
If you don’t sleep well then everything else is so much physically and emotionally harder. 
•    Magnesium helps the body to do what it needs to do whilst you’re sleeping. In very simplistic terms: Magnesium Bisglycinate can help to relax the nervous system, Magnesium Citrate can help to relax muscles, and Magnesium Malate helps with energy. 
•    Homeopathic sleep remedies can be very effective to help you drop off to sleep.
•    Lavender or other calming scents at bedtime can help to trigger the nervous system to calm and can significantly improve quality of sleep. 
•    Teas or hot drinks with Chamomile, Reishi, Lavender, Lemon Balm or Avena Sativa can be a great way to sooth and get ready for a good night’s rest. Be mindful to make sure there are no sugars, sweeteners, or caffeine as these will act to disrupt sleep.