Home		View our 'Article Archive' Menopause, can you avoid the misery? At menopause, hormones drop sharply but do not disappear. Other organs (the endocrine glands) take over from the ovaries and continue to produce hormones. There is much you can do to support your body during this transition, which can last up to five years. Prepare for menopause by being as well nourished as possible! Considerations Calcium menopause requires a greater attention to an "osteoporosis prevention" program dark greens are excellent sources of calcium be sure to include all the co-factors of calcium: magnesium, B6, silica, and so much more Read "Startling New Facts about Osteoporosis" by Betty Kamen for a complete list. Natural estrogen promoters anise, black cohosh, fennel, licorice, raspberry, sarsaparilla, squawvine and wild yam are herbs all listed in "Prescription for Nutritional Healing". Do check the book for any contra-indications for your particular needs (eg. licorice root is not to be taken by anyone with high blood pressure) Herbal support Siberian Ginseng helps with depression and in the production of estrogen gotu kola and dong quai help relieve hot flashes, vaginal dryness and depression black cohosh relieves hot flashes. Remifemin is an excellent standardized extract vitex (chaste berry) is a wonderful aid to symptom relief. Take this herb 3 to 6 months to see the results you want Supplements evening primrose is important as it provides essential fatty acids (GLA) to the glandular system Vit E can relieve hot flashes; increase gradually till you get results Vit C (3 or more grams) supports the adrenals and much more a multi vitamin/mineral plus extra potassium and selenium is recommended by some Diet do include soy products (soybeans, tofu, soy milk, etc.) as they contain phytoestrogens. It is thought that they help balance the hormones as necessary flax seeds and oats (especially oat groats or steel cut oats) are helpful too include lots of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, and some essential fats Other factors hypoglycemia, low thyroid, and other conditions may contribute to the severity of symptoms. Treat these conditions to help control your menopause symptoms. Suggested Reading Smart Medicine for Menopause Hormone Replacement Therapy: Yes or No? Menopause Self Help Book The Estrogen Decision Self Help Book