There is nothing quite like the feeling of a hot flash. You can be in an ice box and all of the sudden, your entire body is overcome by a suffocating warmth. Hot flashes are most often associated with menopause in women, but can also occur in men when associated with other medical conditions, such as infections and certain cancers, says Medicine Net. Hot flashes usually begin in the head and can spread all the way to the toes for a period of several uncomfortable minutes.
Doctors do not know what exactly causes hot flashes, beyond complex hormonal changes. They can occur alongside other symptoms like flushed skin and excessive perspiration. A classic symptom of menopause, hot flashes are experienced by approximately 70 per cent of menopausal women. If you are experiencing hot flashes, your doctor may recommend hormone therapy. Before looking to drugs for a solution, try one of these proven home remedies.
1. Tofu and soy nuts. Proteins are the building blocks of hormone regulation. This is why Women to Women says it is so important menopausal women make sure they get enough protein on a day-to-day basis. One of the easiest ways to increase your protein intake is by adding non-GMO soy foods, like tofu and soy nuts, to an already balanced diet.
2. Oatmeal. Oatmeal is full of whole nutrients. When topped with flax seeds and made with soy milk, this breakfast dish can help prevent hot flashes, says Women to Women.
3. Avocado and Salmon. Fat is very important to hormonal balance. Foods such as avocado and salmon, which are rich in fatty acids, can help balance hormones, and thus prevent hot flashes. Women to Women says the omega-3 found in these foods have also been proven to be effective in treating hot flashes.
4. Broccoli. The green vegetable contains a compound known as sulforaphanes, which helps balance estrogen and other hormones. Women to Women says that eating broccoli, and especially young broccoli sprouts, can help reduce the frequency of hot flashes. Watercress, collard greens, kale, and cabbage also contain sulforaphanes.
5. Sage. This delicious and heartwarming herb has estrogen-like effects that can work wonders in menopausal women. Prevention.com recommends making a cup of sage tea by boiling 1 cup of water with 1 tablespoon of fresh sage leaves or 1 teaspoon of dried sage. Steep for five minutes and then strain. Drink sage tea 2- 3 times a day to reduce the frequency of hot flashes.
6. Strawberries and Citrus. Vitamin C contains bioflavanoids that can decrease the frequency of hot flashes, says Global Healing Center. Strawberries and citrus fruits, as well as kiwis and bell peppers, are among the fruits and veggies with the highest vitamin C content.
7. Almonds and Pine Nuts. Vitamin E has antioxidant properties that may target hot flashes, says Global Healing Center. To prevent hot flashes, eat more vitamin E rich foods, like almonds, pine nuts, pumpkin seeds, and mustard greens.
8. Papaya. According to Global Healing Center, this delicious tropical fruit is high in both vitamin C and E, making it a potent kicker in the fight against hot flashes. If your local grocery store does not carry fresh papaya, buy it frozen and blend it with soy milk and ice for a cooling smoothie.
If you are suffering from hot flashes, cool off with these home remedies! Don’t wait. Start a hot flash-free diet today!