Just as in many other common health disorders, Black women may be more prone to symptoms associated with menopause. According to research, women of African descent tend to experience hot flashes, dizziness, poor coordination, urine leakage, and vaginal dryness more often than non-Black women. Black women report more menopausal symptoms (particularly VMS or hot flashes) with age than white women, who report fewer symptoms as they get older.
After a hysterectomy, a Black woman is more likely to experience hot flashes than a white woman, regardless of weight or hormonal replacement therapy usage.
The psychological symptoms—like mood changes—and somatic symptoms—such as weight gain and breast tenderness--are not racially influenced.
Regardless of your race, poor physical health increases the rate of somatic symptoms.
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Why Many Home Remedies for Menopause Are Ineffective
Many natural menopause supplements do not work; here are some reasons why:
The natural and herbal preparations: There are different types of herbal preparations, some are comprised of extracts (such as essential oils and tinctures) others are made into powders (like capsules).
Extracts are much more concentrated and tend to be more effective than powders. Manufacturers make powdered natural remedies because they are cheaper to produce.
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The product lacks evidence from clinical studies: The product may have a much lower dosage or concentration level than the
product used in clinical studies found to reduce menopausal symptoms.
There are various “grades” of natural preparations and supplements. Medical research studies use the highest grade of natural and herbal preparations, called pharmaceutical grade.
A lack of active ingredients: Although rare, several of the biggest brands in the U.S. were found selling products that did not contain the ingredients listed but instead cheap fillers (such as rice powder).
READ: 9 Steps To Great Health After Menopause
Natural Remedies for Menopause That Work
Natural remedies for menopause found effective in medical research studies include:
- Acupuncture (studies show a reduction of hot flashes and night sweats are linked with acupuncture treatments)
- Black cohosh 40 mg two times per day (an herbal supplement found to be nearly effective as estrogen for hot flashes and mood swings)
- Controlled breathing (slow your breathing to six breaths per minute (inhale to the count of five, then exhale to a count of five) for 15 minutes, twice a day, slow breathing reportedly decreases fatigue and improves mood and sleep, according to the Journal of Menopausal Medicine)
- Magnesium supplements (known as the anti-anxiety mineral, has been found to lower hot flashes and improve mood, promote deeper sleep, and prevent bone loss during menopause)
- Oily cold-water fish (such as salmon and sardines were found to help stave off symptoms of menopause, while eating foods made with refined sugar and flour brought on menopause earlier than average.
RELATED: Acupuncture Could Help Ease Hot Flashes
What To Look For in Quality Natural Remedies for Menopause
Studies indicate the quality of natural and herbal supplements can vary significantly (particularly in the U.S., since natural products are not regulated by the FDA).
Consider checking supplement reviews from organizations like ConsumerLab to make sure you're indeed getting what's listed on the label.
The USP (United States Pharmacopeia) certification can be found on the product’s label. The USP certification indicates that the ingredients listed on the label are in fact, those used in the product and that the company employed good manufacturing practices.
Choosing organic products and looking for keywords such as “wildcrafted” for herbal products are additional indicators that your purchasing product is likely of high quality.
Keep in mind that although a product is natural, it doesn’t necessarily mean that it’s safe. Many herbal and natural products can cause severe adverse symptoms or interact negatively with a specific prescription or over-the-counter medications. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking natural remedies for menopause or any other condition.
