cal hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) compared to traditional synthetic and animal-derived versions. In 2009, a study out of Postgrad Medicine concluded that physiological data and clinical outcomes demonstrate that BHRT is associated with decreased risk of breast cancer and cardiovascular disease. They appear to be more efficacious than their synthetic and animal-derived counterpart and remain the preferred method in HRT, but there are other approaches other than HRT and BHRT that have been proven to be helpful in menopause.
How Ayurveda and Other Naturopathic Therapies Can Help
Using a strategic approach by combining Ayurveda (traditional medicine from India) and naturopathic medicine is a great way to combat menopause without experiencing an increased risk for life- threatening diseases. The main goal of this combined approach is to alleviate symptoms and prevent/treat osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and other aging-related diseases. After symptoms and risk have been assessed by a skilled physician, recommended treatment options may include herbal supplementation, nutrition, exercise, yoga, breathing exercises and orthomolecular therapy. The Ayurvedic perspective on menopause is that it is a normal sign of aging and is known as the golden age. Women are viewed as becoming more elegant and are celebrated, quite different than the American perspective. The secret to a comfortable and easy transition is living a healthy lifestyle. The more balanced you are before you reach menopause largely determines how you will react to menopause. Eating a healthy diet and getting exercise provide a foundation for health and are two keys to being “in balance.” Menopausal symptoms vary from woman to woman; Ayurveda ascribes symptoms to different body types or doshas. The three types of doshas include Vata, Pitta and Kapha. If you have an imbalance in one of these doshas you may experience the following menopausal symptoms:
Vata: Nervousness Anxiety Panic Mood swings Vaginal dryness Loss of skin tone Feeling cold Irregular periods
Pitta: Anger
Irritability Feeling hot Hot flashes Night Sweats
Kapha: Weight gain Sluggishness Lethargy
Fluid retention
Insomnia Mild or variable hot flashes Constipation Palpitations Bloating Joint aches and pains
Heavy periods Excessive bleeding Urinary tract infections Skin rashes Acne
Yeast infections Depression Lack of motivation Slow digestion
Based on the dosha, or sometimes combined doshas, a treat- ment plan that may include herbal therapies can be prescribed to
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