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tx
reproductive system
Menopause
Integrative Therapies
Home Care
Menopause is the transitional phase in a woman's life when her menstrual cycle and the ability to give birth come to an end. It lasts approximately one to three years. During menopause, menstrual flow first becomes irregular, diminishes, and then is finally completely absent. When no menstrual bleeding has occurred for one year, the menopausal transition is finished. Any vaginal bleeding after this time should be checked by a physician.
Menopause results from the body's decreased production of the female sexual and reproductive hormones, which begins sometime after the age of 42. Strictly speaking, the menopausal woman is not sick. However, poor diet, lack of exercise, stress, and other factors may aggravate the symptoms and discomforts associated with the changes going on in her body.
During menopause, a woman may be more sensitive emotionally, have headaches, stomach pains, nosebleeds, frequent bruises, varicose veins, extreme fatigue, and insomnia. Other possible problems are night sweats, dryness or soreness during sexual intercourse, and the sudden rush of blood which results in "hot flashes." If such symptoms persist or if discomfort is great, consult your physician.
If the transition of menopause becomes too emotionally or mentally stressful, then psychological counseling or support is recommended.
THE FOLLOWING SUPPLEMENTS ARE USED FOR MENOPAUSE AND CAN BE TAKEN UNTIL SYMPTOMS IMPROVE:
1. Vitamin E 600 Units daily. Vitamin E normalizes estrogen levels. Cold-pressed wheat germ oil is one of the best sources.
2. Vitamin B6 100 milligrams per day.
3. PABA Up to 60 milligrams per day.
4. Folic acid 5 milligrams per day.
5. Pantothenic acid 100 milligrams per day.
6. Vitamin A 25,000 Units per day.
7. Vitamin C 1,000 milligrams per day.
8. B vitamin complex 50 milligrams per day.
9. Kelp Up to 5 tablets or 1 teaspoon of the granules daily.
10. Calcium 750 milligrams per day. This is used in combination with 400 milligrams of magnesium per day. The best sources of calcium are calcium citrate, amino acid chelate, and calcium derived from oyster shells.
11. Zinc 15 milligrams per day can help ease depression and moodiness.
12. Betaine Hydrochloride 1/8 teaspoon, 3 to 4 times daily with meals. It aids in digestion as well as in the absorption of minerals. Because of the acidity of betaine hydrochloride, do not use it if you are experiencing heartburn or "acid indigestion."
THE PROPER DIET FOR MENOPAUSE WILL INCLUDE:
1. An overall healthy diet. This means using fresh foods as close to the natural, unprocessed state as possible. Avoid processed and prepackaged foods. A healthy diet includes leafy green vegetables, whole grains, fruit, and proteins with a minimum of animal fat. Keep your intake of sugar foods and refined carbohydrates, such as processed flours and grains, white bread, and white rice, to a minimum. For more information on healthy diet, listen to our Healthy Diet program (number 343).
2. Be sure to get enough high-quality protein. Replace red meat with fish and chicken as much as possible and include beans, nuts, and seeds in the diet.
HERBS FOR MENOPAUSE:
1. Dong Quai, a Chinese herb also called Angelica sinensis, is one of the most effective herbal tonics for the female organs and is a hormonal regulator. To avoid stomach distress, it is best to take Dong Quai as a tincture, which is a liquid herbal extract, combined with other herbs such as Licorice and Comfrey. The usual dose is 15 to 25 drops of the liquid herbal extract per day in a small amount of water or juice.
2. Ginseng root can be used for relief from hot flashes. It also helps balance the hormones. Take 1 standard dose twice daily (see the product label). Chewing on a piece of the root as needed is helpful. Daily doses of vitamin C heighten the effect of the Ginseng. However, Ginseng and vitamin C should be taken at separate times of the day. Avoid using commercial teas, which are less effective. Ginseng should be taken on an empty stomach.
3. Motherwort 5 to 20 drops of the tincture in a glass of water. It can be quite bitter if taken as a tea. It is especially good for dryness of the vagina.
HOMEOPATHY
From the following homeopathic medicines, the one that best matches the symptoms is choosen. Dissolve 3 pellets under the tongue.
Lachesis 12C: For a woman who is too sensitive to touch or finds tight clothes uncomfortable. She is very talkative and feels worse after resting. Taken 2 times per day.
Sepia 12C: For a woman that is cold, easily depressed, and prefers to be left alone. She experiences sudden hot flashes with weakness and sweating. Taken 2 times per day.
Note: A wide range of homeopathic medicines can be helpful for women during menopause. Consultation with a health care professional trained in homeopathic prescribing will usually be the best way to select the correct medicine.
ADDITIONAL MEASURES FOR MENOPAUSE INCLUDE:
1. EXERCISE It is important to exercise regularly. At least 30 minutes 3 times per week should be engaged in the types of physical exercise that get the heart moving, such as brisk walking, aerobics, swimming, or tennis.
2. Acupuncture has been found to be quite helpful in relieving the negative symptoms associated with menopause. Look for a licensed practitioner in your area.
Clinic
Footnotes
BarShalom R, Soileau J. (eds.) Natural Health Hotline. Beaverton, OR: Integrative Medical Arts, 1991-1999.