Gillian McKeith's Food Bible (57 page)

Black cohosh
may ease hot flashes and vaginal dryness.

Dong quai
can help to restore hormonal balance.

Sage
is helpful for hot sweats.

Milk thistle
helps to excrete old hormones and toxins.

Ginkgo biloba
has been shown to have a rejuvenating effect on the brain.

Angelica
for the female reproductive system, regulating hormones and improving the rhythm of the menstrual cycle.

Red clover
for balancing hormones because of its high B vitamin content.

Shatawari
is a popular Ayurvedic tonic used by some women to help to normalize hormonal imbalances.

Valerian
can help with sleep. Drink a cup of chamomile tea with a few drops of valerian an hour before bed.

Low thyroid function

Your thyroid may become sluggish around your menopausal years. This can cause a range of seemingly unconnected symptoms. Be aware of: thinning hair, constipation, dry skin, cold hands and feet, and weight gain. (Of course, each of these symptoms can occur from time to time even if your thyroid is healthy, so please get checked by your GP.) See page
302
in the A to Z for more information.

Specific menopausal symptoms and solutions

Hot flashes

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, sugar, and refined carbohydrates.

Supplement with vitamin E daily. As much as 300 IU three times daily may be needed, but build up to this amount gradually. Do not take if you are on other medications.

Citrus bioflavanoids with vitamin C may also be helpful.

Drink sage tea twice a day and if night sweats are a problem, have a cup before bed. Sage can reduce sweating.