Five foods that can help you through the menopause

It's the phase in life that all women come to dread. No-one looks forward to the menopause; the toll it can take on the body - not to mention the havoc it plays with your hormones - is no picnic, with symptoms ranging from hot flushes and headaches to weight increase and severe mood swings.

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The good news is that you can help alleviate some of these symptoms through nutrition. We have included a list of foods that you should try to include in your daily diet to help ease the way.

Soy Beans

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Soy Beans contain phytoestrogens, which are natural plant molecules that closely resemble, and mimic the actions of oestrogen. Phytoestrogens can help to reduce hot flushes, offering protection from heart disease and lowering the risk of osteoporoses.

Other sources of phytoestrogens include seeds and nuts - flaxseed, sesame seed, sunflower seeds, chestnuts and almonds - green beans, rhubarb and celery.

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Sunflower seeds

Sunflower seeds are one of the highest food sources of vitamin E, which can help reduce the severity and frequency of hot flushes.

Almonds, pine nuts, paprika and unsalted peanuts are also sources of vitamin E.

Bell Peppers

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Bell Peppers contain a large amount of vitamin C, which helps to support your immune system and your blood vessels as well as acting as a powerful antioxidant.

Vitamin C has been shown to reduce specific symptoms of the menopause including hot flushes, and also helps retain the elasticity in the urinary tract to help combat incontinence.

Other foods high in vitamin c include kale, broccoli, kiwi fruit, oranges, clementines and strawberries.

Wholegrains

Wholegrains such as brown rice, wholemeal bread, granola and cereal contain B vitamins. B vitamins assist the body when it is under pressure and can be particularly helpful during the menopause by helping to take pressure off your adrenal (stress) glands. They can also help women suffering with symptoms of anxiety, reduced energy levels and those lacking in concentration.

Salmon

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Salmon is a potent source of Omega 3 which is generally considered to be an all-round tonic for your body. Omega 3 can help alleviate dry skin, lifeless hair, and cracked nails, as well as helping with depression, forgetfulness, breast pain, aching joints and weight issues.

Heart disease risk can rise after menopause, so you should try to eat at least two servings of fish per week (preferably those with healthy fats like salmon or trout). Other foods rich in omega 3 included walnuts & flax seeds.

What to avoid

Try to stop eating foods that are likely to trigger hot flushes and night sweats by avoiding stimulants like coffee, alcohol and spicy foods especially in the evening.

To combat any tiredness you might be feeling, cut out sugary foods instead opting for protein rich snacks such as a boiled egg & cherry tomatoes.

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