By the time you start experiencing hot flashes you probably are familiar with the side effects and the causes.  You may even know of how to handle your hot flashes with Hormone Replacement Therapy, or prescription medication.  What you may not know that there are potential long term problems associated with HRT, and you should consider natural remedies for hot flashes. 

There are a number of natural remedies for hot flashes that should be considered.  One of the most widely used natural remedies is soy.  Soy foods are found to contain plant based sources of natural estrogens called phytoestrogens.  Isoflavones are a specific class of this plant that is especially beneficial and most researched.  Once this substance is eaten they are metabolized into a source much like the natural estrogen in your body.  Like any natural remedy soy should be taken in a dosage that is proper for your body depending on your weight.  Soy foods are fine to consume but if you are taking supplements then you should limit yourself to 50 to 100 milligrams per day. 

There are many soy foods that you can enjoy and find easily at your local supermarket or health food store.  The most obvious way to get your daily intake of soy is to simply change from skim or regular milk to soymilk.  It can be found in the gallon size or even in individual can size to take with you on the road.  Soy shakes are extremely popular and relatively tasty to drink.  The soy burger is another choice, as well as soy bars, soy cookies, and even soy ice cream.   The possibilities are endless, and besides the relief from hot flashes, you will be enjoying a healthier diet in general.  ‘

Black Cohosh is another natural remedy for hot flashes that some women swear by.  It is a member of the buttercup family, sold both as a dietary supplement and for menopausal women as a tablet over the counter.  It is an herb that is used to make up the supplement by extracting the roots and rhizomes to make an excellent alternative to HRT.  It can also be made to be used in teas, or liquid extracts, although the pill form is the most easiest to control.  It is important that you stick to the recommended dosage due to the possible side effects over the long run.  Studies are currently being run, but most agree that it is very safe to use. 

Tags: menopause, hot flashes, hot flash remedies, relieve hot flashes