Natural remedies for hot flashes

Hot flashes are a hallmark symptom for women experiencing menopause. Hot flashes are brief episodes of intense warmth and sweating which can leave you sweaty and red faced. While hot flashes can be very minor for some which requires discreet fanning, for others it can be frequent and very severe.

As a women approaches menopause the hormone estrogen gradually decreases its supply. Hot flashes are body’s reaction to this low supply of hormone. When you get a hot flash you may experience rapid heartbeat and intense heat and perspiration on the upper part of the body particularly upper chest, neck and face.

As a hot flash subsides you may experience a chilled feeling. If these hot flashes are too frequent or severe then it is wise to consult a specialist but in most of the cases these can be taken care by some hot flashes home remedies. There are lots of things you can do to turn the heat down, follow these natural cure for hot flashes for the same.

Keep cool – A warm temperature or heat can trigger a hot flash. Keep the room temperature cool enough, in winters, keep the heater on moderate temperature not too hot. Avoid extreme temperatures changes like entering a chilled air-conditioned room coming from a blistering heat outside. You can dress in layers so that when you feel too warm you can remove clothing. Select cotton and other natural fiber clothing as these help to release heat and moisture and allow your skin to breathe.

Deep breathing – Many experts believe that concentrating on slow, deep breathing throughout the day can help reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes. Deep breathing helps to modulate the body temperature, slows the metabolism and reduces the frequency of hot flashes.

Choose wisely – Abstain from smoking and alcohol altogether as it is believed that it may cause estrogen spikes and trigger a hot flash. It would also be advisable to avoid too much sugar, spices and caffeine as these can trigger hot flashes. Learn to recognize what factor or food triggers a hot flash and avoid those completely.

Vitamin E – This antioxidant works well for hot flashes treatment and helps to reduce the frequency and severity of the same. Natural sources of vitamin E like wheat germ oil, broccoli, walnuts, peanuts, whole-grain breads and cereals and almonds can be included in the diet. Before starting any vitamin E supplement consult your specialist for the same.

Say yes to soy – Soybeans and its products contains a natural component which acts like estrogen called phytoestrogen. So a women taking soy and its products like soy milk, tofu may experience fewer hot flashes.

Choose to be active as it is seen that physically active women or exercised bodies experience fewer episodes of hot flashes.