Cool Solutions for Hot Flashes from The Golden Naturopathic Clinic

The symptoms that accompany the hormonal fluctuation that happens before and during menopause can range from mildly inconvenient to completely overwhelming. Summer can be wonderful for improvement of menopausal symptoms, but because of the increased heat, this time of year in particular can aggravate hot flashes and night sweats.

Get Outside to Help Your Hot Flashes

One of the most important things we can do to maintain good health during the summer months is to go outside! Vitamin D deficiency is incredibly common for women of menopausal age, and can aggravate fatigue. Adequate Vitamin D is also critical for maintaining healthy bones after menopause. Although avoiding sun damage and sunburn is very important, the skin also needs to be exposed to the sun during the summer months to maintain healthy levels of Vitamin D. Regular outdoor activity can also help to fight fatigue and the joint pains that often accompany menopause.

Hydrate with Delicious Sun Tea

Hot weather, however, can aggravate hot flashes and night sweats. One of the most basic strategies is to maintain good hydration—eight cups of water per day, plus 8oz for every hour of outdoor activity, is critical. Also, don’t be afraid to jump in the creek! Vitamin E can also be very effective for reducing hot flashes. Although there are many herbs to help with specific hormone imbalances, some common culinary herbs can also be helpful (see recipe below). If these simple options don’t help, further evaluation of your personal hormone status by a qualified practitioner may be necessary.

Ladies’ Cooling Sun Tea

     1 Tbsp sage
     1 Tbsp rosemary
     1 Tbsp nettle leaf
     1 Tbsp Alfalfa leaf
Place in a 1 quart mason jar and cover with 4 cups water.
Leave in the sun for 2-4 hours, strain, and enjoy!