Surviving Menopause Without Losing Your Mind

As a female enduring the throes of menopause, I have researched many different options for alleviating the symptoms of my great transition. Not to say all these ideas help all the time, but they have at least eased the symptoms to a bearable level.

Traditional medicine treats these symptoms with HRT - hormone replacement therapy, or ERT - estrogen replacement therapy. Both treatments are counterindicated if you have a family history of breast cancer, as breast cancer feeds on estrogen. The side effects of these treatments can be worse than the symptoms themselves, and can include weight gain, nausea, deep vein thrombosis, a worsening of existing fibroids or varicose veins, fluid retention, vaginal discharge, and pulmonary emboli. Increased risk of heart attacks and other cancers have also been linked to these traditional approaches, which represent an $8B industry.

What to do? There are a number of holistic strategies to alleviate the symptoms without sacrificing your health to the wealth of the pharmaceutical industry. Here are some suggestions and strategies to use:

1) Cut down on caffeine

One of the major symptoms I have had is anxiety and inability to sleep. Caffeine can make these symptoms much much worse. Switch to decaf, and see the difference. I also experience more hot flashes when I drink more coffee.

2) Cut back on white sugar and flour

These "poisons" affect your sugar levels, which can intensify some of the weight gain and water retention issues you will have with menopause. Sugar levels also affect your moods, and moderating sugar intake can keep you more on an even keel.

3) Drink lots of water

This helps flush out toxins from your body that can intensify hot flashes and mood swings.

4) Try soy!

It has been proven that in cultures where women consume more soy, menopausal symptoms are lower. Try soy milk, soy cheese, or a doctor created program that includes delicious Revival Soy Bars.

5) Take a great herbal supplement

Our foods are depleted of many natural minerals and vitamins that our bodies need to manage the toxic overload we all endure, and the lack of these may account for why today's women seem to experience worse symptoms than those of prior generations. Many good supplements contain Black Cohosh, which the Native American women used successful for many years. One great one is AM/PM Menopause Formula - 60 tabs. This supplement has energy producing herbs such as Ginseng to help during the days, and herbs to help you sleep at night.

Another great choice is Menozac which is a proprietary blend of Damaiana,Black Cohosh, and Vitamin E with an effective form of soy.

6) Exercise every day

Exercise reduces anxiety and releases endorphins, which helps your overall mood.

7) Take time to yourself every day

Now is the time in your life to honor yourself by treating yourself to a little time, every day!