If you are a woman who has reached the age of 50, it will be the onset of your menopausal phase.
Major physiological changes happen and symptoms like vaginal dryness, insomnia, hot flashes and depression to name a few are felt. Some of these symptoms are mild and can be managed but if they are severe, you will need the aid of treatments given by doctors to help you ease the problems you are feeling during this phase.
The most popular treatment for menopause is Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) which replaces the estrogen and progesterone needed by the body, since during menopausal stage the production of sexual hormones declines. HRT are available to the market as pills, skin patches, gels or creams and implants, but some women opt not to choose HRT due to its risks.
Some choose dietary supplements, but how effective are they? Read on to know more about the supplements available and how effective they are.
Black Cohosh
Black Cohosh comes from the root of a cohosh plant and was found to lessen hot flashes. Some women say that it works for them but the evidence of its effectiveness is lacking and it is said to be dangerous for people with liver problems.
It is better to ask the doctor if this supplement is safe before you take it.
Dong Quai
Dong Quai is an herb from China that is known to help balance female hormones. It is also said to have an effect on hot flashes, like the placebo, but studies found that it has no advantageous effects on other menopause symptoms.
Women with heavy bleeding during menopause were advised not to take this supplement.
Evening Primrose Oil
Evening Primrose Oil is also known as Black Currant Oil. Found to have a gamma-linolenic acid that is recognized to help moderate menopausal symptoms. Studies has been conducted and found that this supplement has the same effects as placebo.
This supplement is found to ease hot flushes but not other symptoms.
Gingko
Gingko is known to help improve one’s memory and mood. But a study conducted on 2009 and in 2007 shows that it has no effect on brain function thus it can’t help to moderate mood swings or anxiety normally felt by one in the menopausal stage.
It has no advantageous effect on the psychological symptoms for menopause.
Ginseng
Ginseng is a popular herb used by traditional medicine for several centuries. Like gingko, it is said to have an effect on the mood or anxieties felt during menopause Recently, a study says that it also improves the libido of one undergoing menopause. The downside? It has a negative effect on women with heart problems.
It is the supplement that is effective for treating menopausal symptoms but also has some serious side-effects.
Red Clover
Red Clover has isoflavones, a substance similar to estrogen. A 2006 review shows that it is more effective that placebo in decreasing hot flashes while in a 2009 study shows that it aids to lower cholesterol in menopausal women. The effect of red clover is still limited and therefore no conclusion is made.
For women with cancer of the uterus and those with breast cancer, should ask their doctor before taking this supplement.
Soy
Soy Foods also have isoflavones, a protein that tofu and soy milk is abundant of. Research for the result of soy isoflavones on menopausal symptoms are still ongoing so no conclusive evidence have been found, so far, it is said to be effective in reducing hot flashes.
It is safe to include soy foods in your diet.
Remember, it still best to consult your doctor before taking any remedies or treatments to help you get through you menopausal phase.