You know a hot flush when you feel one! Hot flushes and night sweats are those fiery, unexpected moments when you feel like someone lit a fire in your belly and within seconds, you’re soaked in sweat.
They’re bad at any time of the day but especially unpleasant when they’re creeping up on you during your weekly team meeting leaving you with a red head and sweat running down your temples (the worst when it’s while you’re presenting the monthly forecast!).
They’re the most “famous” symptoms of menopause because they’re so common. They affect 70-80% of women. Left untreated, they can last several years, for some women decades after their last period.
What causes them?
These sensations occur due to hormonal fluctuations during menopause. When oestrogen drops, your body’s thermostat goes haywire, leading to these sudden heat waves and drenching sweats.
What are the triggers?
Certain things, like spicy food, alcohol (red wine in particular), excess sugar, caffeine, stress, tight clothing, and hot environments, can set off these fiery episodes. Even a bit of cigarette smoke can fan the flames. Avoiding these triggers can help lessen the frequency of these unwelcome guests.
Natural remedies:
- Cooling down is key! Switch on the A/C and sip on iced water or tea instead of hot coffee when you sense a hot flush coming.
- Stick to just one glass of wine (or none) because alcohol often triggers hot flushes.
- Manage your stress by delegating, saying no more often and deep belly breathing.
- Keep your bedroom cool, sleep in lightweight, breathable nightwear and have spares nearby so that you can easily change them during the night.
- Go to bed early to give your body the most rejuvenating sleep between 10 PM and 2 AM
- Balance your blood sugar with the right balance of protein, healthy fats and carbs and support your adrenals with supplements like ashwagandha, Rhodiola or holy basil.
Conventional therapy:
Sometimes, natural remedies aren’t enough. Conventional therapies like Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and medications can provide relief. Remember to discuss these options with your healthcare practitioner for personalised guidance.
Don’t let hot flushes and night sweats get in the way of feeling your best during the menopausal years. There is a lot you can do to flourish in midlife.
➡➡ THAT is what I teach in my programs.
