Menopause and Naturopathic Medicine

Menopause and Naturopathic Medicine

Menopause is a natural biological process that marks the permanent end of a woman’s menstrual cycle and usually occurs in women aged 50 and above. It is triggered when a woman’s estrogen levels decrease as a result of age, resulting in the termination of ovulation. It is often associated with a host of undesirable symptoms.

Common symptoms that occur in women who are experiencing menopause include:

• Hot flashes
• Changes in mood
• Weight gain
• Insomnia and fatigue
• Thinning of hair
• Depression

How Naturopathic Medicine Can Help

The various treatment methods included under the umbrella of naturopathic medicine, from herbalism to acupuncture, diet/lifestyle counseling and homeopathy, can be quite effective in managing the symptoms of menopause. Acupuncture in particular may be effective in treating hot flashes as a result of natural menopause.

Diet and lifestyle changes can also be beneficial to women who are experiencing menopause, and this is where both botanical and nutritional medicine strategies come into play. Consumption of whole and organic foods with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables creates a strong foundation for managing symptoms of menopause. Getting the right nutrients such as Vitamin D and Calcium are also vital.

With a holistic approach to treatment, including various strategies such as acupuncture and nutritional counseling, menopausal patients can potentially enjoy great success in managing their symptoms. Improving one’s quality of life is essential to navigating the changes that come with menopause, and the application of naturopathic medicine under the guidance of a trained expert can help.

For more information, please contact us at 604-235-8068.

Sources:

http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/279714.php

http://www.nytimes.com/health/guides/disease/menopause/lifestyle-changes.html