Hot flashes in women are experienced because of hormonal changes during the menopausal stage. This life changing phenomenon of women usually occurs around 50 to 55 years old, but may occur earlier. Menopause is a natural occurrence among women which literally means end of menstruation. This is a result from the loss of estrogen production by the follicles of the ovaries. At mid – 40s, the follicles of the ovaries start to degenerate. The ovarian follicles are the ones responsible for the production of the female reproductive hormones called estrogen and progesterone. This follicular degeneration leads to the reduction of functional ovarian follicles.

Therefore, estrogen production also declines. Primarily, estrogen is a reproductive hormone. It is important because it promotes reproductive health, facilitates the development of reproductive organs and has many other health benefits. However, it also has a significant role in promoting bone health thus preventing bone fragility called osteoporosis. It is also required in the production of proteins by the liver, aids in normal blood coagulation, increases the level of good cholesterol known as HDL and helps control body temperature.

A decreased amount of estrogen has a direct effect on the hypothalamus gland in the brain. The hypothalamus is considered to be the body’s temperature regulator. If the estrogen receptor sites are not filled with estrogen, it signals the hypothalamus that the temperature of the body is “hot”. The brain responds by allowing the heart to beat faster, dilating the blood vessels of the skin to promote blood circulation and increase sweat production to take off heat by way of evaporation. This can cause a very uneasy and warm feeling. Menopausal estrogen replacement therapy is claimed to be the most successful method to relieve hot flashes. However, this therapy is highly controversial. Women who have had or has a familial history of breast cancer must not use this kind of treatment if the benefits do not outweigh the risks.

Fortunately, phytoestrogens, which are structurally similar to estrogen, were discovered. This plant estrogen can be obtained from plants which functions like that of the estrogen naturally produced by the body. Phytoestrogens are also known as dietary estrogens. Studies reveal that when phytoestrogens are ingested and absorbed into the bloodstream, these chemicals bind to estrogen receptor sites and cause an effect similar to that of the estrogen produced by the follicles of the ovaries.

Structurally, phytoestrogens are classified into two, the isoflavones and the lignans. Isoflavones are phytoestrogens present in soy beans while lignans are those found in seeds, grains and vegetables. Soy beans are considered to be the greatest source of phytoestrogens. However, experts say that an individual must consume abundant amounts of these foods to be able to effectively fill a number of estrogen receptor sites thus preventing or relieving hot flashes. Good thing, phytoestrogens are formulated into supplements. These supplements come in the form of tablet and creams.

Experts also highly recommend that lifestyle changes would also help in the control of hot flashes. It would also be best to consult a qualified healthcare provider before initiating phytoestrogen supplement and discuss with your doctor your health and family health history to be completely safe.

If you experience hot flashes, give phytoestrogen a try and feel the difference.

Author Bio: Fight back against hot flashes with phytoestrogen at VitaNet ®, LLC Vitamin Store. http://vitanetonline.com/

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Phytoestrogen, Fight Hot Flashes, Stop PMS