Balance Your Hormones Naturally - Part 2

Menopause

The media of ten reminds women that symptoms such as natural ageing, mood swings, tiredness, depression, hot flushes, loss of sex drive, and osteoporosis are proof of oestrogen deficiency. The modern acceptance of its deficiency after menopause is the main reason for oestrogen supplementation. This rationale is promoted by the pharmaceutical industry and the media.

It is true that menopause is associated with decreased oestrogen levels, and that some menopausal symptoms are associated with this decrease. However, it is not proven that oestrogen deficiency is the single factor involved. In a respected medical text (2.) it is noted that although menopausal women have oestrogen levels insufficient for pregnancy, they have sufficient levels for all other normal bodily functions.

Menopause Case History

Jane was 47 when she came to me complaining of headaches, hot flushes, moodiness, tiredness, severe neck pain, constipation, abdominal bloating and weight gain. She worked long hours running her own business. Subsequently, she relied on take aways and prepackaged dinners as regular sustenance. Jane liked fresh fruit and vegetables, but she only had them on weekends when her grandchildren came over.

Together we worked out a nutritional strategy that included a regular intake of fruit, vegetables, rice, fish, and phytoestrogenic foods (please see list page *). Jane's supplements included a herbal mixture of Chaste Tree, Dandelion and Sarsaparilla, a herb concentrate tablet of St. Marys Thistle, a general vitamin nerve tonic, and a digestive enzyme formula with minerals and herbs. At bedtime I recommended a magnesium B6 complex and Kava.

Within the first month Jane's energy level noticeably improved. Her severe neck pain became manageable with the help of several massage/acupuncture sessions. Jane's headaches and hot flushes were no longer relentless, and her abdominal problems were improved.

Within two months Jane's health improved immensely. Her neck pain and headaches disappeared, and her hot flushes were no longer an issue. Jane bounced out of bed in the morning feeling happy and hopeful.

That was two years ago. Since then Jane's health has remained improved, except for some lingering problems with flushing. These were satisfactorily treated with Don Quai, Primrose oil and a program similar to the one she started with.

Go to Part 3 - Pre Menstrual Syndrome

©1998 Miriam Orwin. This article may not be reproduced in part or full without the author's written consent.