Ever since I wrote Your Personal Guide to Menopause thousands of women have written or approached me for advice about what to do for their hot flashes and menopausal symptoms.
Many are understandably reluctant to use hormones and are searching for effective ways to feel better and have less hot flashes and other symptoms. Though there are research studies that show that some women improve with soy or black cohosh, the results are often mixed. Some women do well and others don’t. What with all the different versions of soy food and supplements, it’s always been chalked up to the form of soy studied. (more…)
Is is possible that taking a supplement like Omega-3’s in pregnancy reduce postpartum depression?
We know that postpartum depression is a serious concern. Identification and prevention is key to helping moms avoid feeling more than just baby blues so that they can care for themselves and their babies.
A recent study on a small group of pregnant women found that those who took DHA, Omega-3 supplements during their pregnancy had a decreased risk of postpartum depression. According to the lead author, Dr. Michelle Price Judge, it’s thought that as pregnancy progresses into the 3rd trimester, more of the mother’s stores of DHA are transferred to the baby, which causes a depletion in the mother.
Oh my gosh, is it hot outside or what? As the temperature rises outside and the air conditioning is going full blast, what do women with hot flashes do? They’re already steaming and baking on the inside, but when the outside temperature soars, they’re in for even more searing heat.
It’s good to avoid hot flash triggers and stay cool. Here’s some ideas: (more…)
Why is it that some women can increase their soy intake and experience fewer hot flashes, while others can’t? Could it be that the way that our bodies metabolize soy is the key difference?
There’s recent evidence that about 50% of women in Asia are able to convert Soy into it’s natural metabolite, S-equol and that those women have fewer hot flashes! Who knew? How many women from the US can convert soy into S-equol? Only 20-30% have the ability to make S-equol on their own. And this discovery could be the key to unlocking treatment for hot flashes.
