Natural Alternatives To HRT

Menopause marks the end of a woman’s fertility which means no more periods and grisly cramps, but this also means less production of a vital hormone i.e. estrogen. Reduced estrogen levels take a toll on a woman’s body. The symptoms caused by this can be anywhere from mild to gruesome. So, this is where HRT comes in handy. Hormone Replacement Therapy, most commonly referred to as HRT, is a treatment that involves taking hormones to supplement the reduced ones in your body. The primary reason for taking HRT is to relieve the unpleasant symptoms of menopause like hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, sleep issues, headaches, and anxiety. While it may seem that HRT is ‘The Perfect’ solution to ease menopause symptoms, unfortunately, it is not. 

Various studies have been conducted to shine a light on the potential risks of taking Hormone Replacement Therapy. Although these risks are significantly lower and do not outweigh the benefits, however, lower risk does not mean ZERO RISK. There are several side effects of taking HRT, and not to mention it is also not suitable for everyone. The point being made here is why take something that might pose some serious risks in the future? 

There are plenty of natural ways to replace the lost hormones and combat the symptoms of menopause. Unless HRT is the only viable option for you, I suggest women not take it and use natural alternatives instead. Not only do these natural alternatives pose zero risks to overall health but also come from natural sources. In this article, we shall talk about some effective natural alternatives to HRT:

1. Phytoestrogens:

Phytoestrogens offer a great natural substitute for the synthetic estrogen used in HRT. Hence, they are extremely beneficial for women going through menopause. Phytoestrogens, also known as dietary estrogens, are natural compounds found in plant-based foods that have a similar chemical structure to that of estrogen produced in the body. They are effective in relieving the unpleasant symptoms that keep menopausal women up at night. Foods that are rich in phytoestrogens: 

• Plums
• Pear
• Apple 
• Berries
• Beans
• Legumes
• Grains
• Spinach

2. Vitamin D:

Vitamin D, or should I say the “Sunshine Vitamin”, is very necessary for maintaining healthy bone structure, it also helps with the absorption of calcium in your body. Vitamin D is great for women who are navigating through menopause because it improves hormone regulation and treats vaginal dryness. The best source to obtain vitamin D is sunlight but as you grow old your ability to absorb the vitamin decreases, so it’s important to take it orally in the form of foods or supplements. Foods that are rich in Vitamin D:

• Oranges
• Tuna
• Mushrooms
• Salmon

3. Black Cohosh:

Black Cohosh is a flowering plant known for its ability to help with menopause symptoms. It was used widely in the early twentieth century to treat gynecological conditions in women. This herb is proven to be very effective, particularly against hot flashes, depression, and excessive sweating. Take black cohosh supplements daily to reduce the undesirable effects of menopause symptoms. 

4. Dong Quai:

This East Asian herb is very popular in China. It has been used for thousands of years in traditional Chinese medicine. Its primary function is to reduce menstruation complaints and is also great at minimizing irritating menopausal symptoms. Dong quai balances the reduced levels of hormones in the body by acting like estrogen during menopause.

5. Milk Thistle:

For women who are seeking natural alternatives to HRT, milk thistle is high on their list because it is known to relieve the fearsome symptoms of menopause. It plays a vital role in balancing hormones in the body. It contains a bioflavonoid called silymarin, which is very good in supporting hormonal balance through its protective action on the liver.

6. Vitamin E:

Hot flashes are inevitable for women who go through menopause and their severity is varied in every woman. Taking vitamin E has shown a significant reduction in hot flashes experienced by women in menopause. It also aids in treating vaginal dryness which is another very common symptom occurring in menopause. Good food sources of vitamin E include:

• Avocados
• Nuts
• Leafy green vegetables
• Whole grains 
• Wheat germ
• Pumpkin

7. Omega-3 Essential Fatty Acids:

Omega-3 deficiency and menopause have many symptoms that are similar so it can be taken to cope with the bothersome symptoms of menopause. Omega-3 essential fats are known to have a lubricating effect on your body, so may help with vaginal dryness felt during menopause. It also promotes hormone balance in the body. Foods rich in omega-3 are:

• Salmon
• Mackerel
• Sardines
• Nuts 
• Chia seeds
• Green leafy vegetables

Conclusion:

Menopause occurs in every woman. While some have an easy time with it, others suffer tremendously. The latter ones seek any treatments they can find to ease the symptoms. HRT is commonly the treatment most women go for because it provides fast and effective results but it also has some serious underlying health risks which are often overlooked. There are tons of natural alternatives to HRT which provide similar benefits to HRT with zero risks. The natural alternatives discussed in this article provide relief from many unpleasant symptoms of menopause and possess zero health risks.