Try these alternative remedies that can help you feel yourself again
Women experience an average of seven symptoms when going through the menopause. You may have expected hot flushes and mood swings, but what about the other ones? Discover the natural solutions which can make a big difference when you’re struggling…
PALPITATIONS
Dehydration, excess salt, not enough magnesium in your diet, caffeine and sugar overload – and night sweats – can all contribute.
HELP YOURSELF 1 ‘Aim to drink 2ltr of water per day,’ says Alison. It may seem boring but it’s effective.
2 Cut down on caffeine, salt and refined sugar in your diet.
3 ‘If your magnesium levels are low, palpitations are more likely,’ says Alison. A supplement such as Together Health Magnesium (£6.99 for 30 capsules, Holland & Barrett), may help.
THINNING HAIR
‘Falling oestrogen levels affect the growth cycle of your hair. Low iron, too, if you’ve had heavy periods. Excess tea and coffee or regular use of antacids can also affect the way your body absorbs iron,’ says Alison. Plus, lack of protein affects hair.
HELP YOURSELF 1 Up your intake of protein and iron. ‘Eat plenty of leafy, green veg, pistachios, cashews, lentils, chickpeas and prunes,’ says Alison.
2 Use a hair-thickening shampoo and conditioner.
3 ‘If there’s no improvement after three months, ask your GP to check your thyroid function,’ says Alison.
NAUSEA
Feeling queasy? ‘One of the side effects of falling oestrogen levels can be a slower gut, causing constipation, leading to abdominal discomfort, bloating, wind and nausea,’ says Alison.
HELP YOURSELF 1 Drink plain water (but not for 20 minutes before and after food), chew food well, eat lots of cooked veg, avoid white bread, pasta, rice and too many sugary foods.
2 Snack on dried fruit, as this is good for your bowel.
3 ‘A prebiotic may improve your friendly gut bacteria, helping to avoid bloating,’ says Alison.
ANXIETY
‘Menopausal anxiety and panic attacks are usually caused by a reduction in oestrogen, a hormone that acts as a mild antidepressant,’ says Alison. Dehydration also makes you prone to anxiety.
HELP YOURSELF 1 Eat something, however small, every 3-4 hours. ‘Increase your intake of wholegrains, dried fruit, nuts, seeds and green veg – all sources of magnesium, which helps stabilise adrenal glands,’ says Alison.
2 Do breathing exercises regularly. Counting to three as you breathe in and four as
