5 ways to manage menopause naturally
The start of menopause indicates the end of menstruation. The menopausal phase begins after one hasn’t had a period for 12 months straight. While the phase can begin in the 40s or 50s, many experience menopause when they turn 51. It is a natural biological process, the onset of which brings several changes in the body and issues like hot flashes, sleep disruption, and lethargy. But, these symptoms can be managed.
1. Make better food choices
It has been observed that once those who menstruate reach their mid-40s, they develop a near deficiency of many essential nutrients, like magnesium, calcium, iron, zinc, essential fatty acids, vitamin D, and B vitamins. As a result, they tend to feel tired and lethargic most of the time. Also, many menopause symptoms are the result of hormonal changes. The balance of hormones can be directly affected by the levels of essential nutrients in the body. So, increasing the intake of these minerals and vitamins can help with managing menopause and its symptoms. This approach is also useful in maintaining overall health, once the initial symptoms of menopause have passed. Here are some nutrients one should add to their meal plans:
Magnesium-rich foods: If one increases the intake of magnesium-rich foods along with those containing B vitamins, Vitamin D, calcium, zinc, and fatty acids, these can have a positive effect on brain function and hormonal balance. A few rich sources of magnesium are fresh fruit and vegetables, especially green leafy ones such as spinach, kale, collard greens, cabbage, beet greens, watercress, and romaine lettuce. All of them are also rich sources of B vitamins, which can help in dealing with with menopausal symptoms.
Fatty acids: Foods with essential fatty acids or omega-3s are vegetable oils and oily fish such as salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines.