Sponsored post.
Menopause is a natural transition in a woman’s body that is often associated with infrequent periods that eventually stop completely. In fact, menopause is clinically defined as 12 months after a woman’s last period. Equally important shifts in the body include ovaries no longer releasing eggs, and a reduction in estrogen and progesterone levels.
Not sure if you’re even in menopause? Kindra, an estrogen-free menopause wellness company, created a special quiz to help you prepare for, manage, and embrace your body’s natural hormonal shifts. Understanding what to expect is the key to proactive self-care throughout your menopause experience.
While menopause is normal, healthy, and manageable, the transition is unique to each woman and can consist of any (or many!) of the 34 signs and symptoms of menopause. Hot flashes are often regarded as one of the most common symptoms of menopause. Up to 80% of people on their menopause journey experience them, yet they feel a bit different for each person.
Some brush off hot flashes and chills as no big deal, just a warm feeling then a slight chill — nothing the crack of a window and a cardigan can’t handle. Others respond with an “OMG!” reaction, feeling like their hot flashes come from the burning depths of hell, followed by an immediate arctic freeze.
Let’s dive into the causes of hot flashes and ways to manage as we head into summer months.
What Causes Hot Flashes?
Hot flashes are caused by rapid changes in body temperature, and cortisol is the culprit. The thermoregulatory center is influenced by your hormones and basically functions as your body’s internal thermostat, controlling both heat production and heat loss. As you reach the perimenopause phase, estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate, triggering changes in your body’s internal thermostat. This is when your blood vessels closest to the surface of your skin dilate to release heat, leading to skin appearing flushed or blotchy. Your heart may beat faster, and your sweat glands open up in hopes of cooling down your body. Your body temperature may even rise a few degrees during the hot flash.
Ways to Manage Hot Flashes
As we head into the summer months, it’s important to adopt lifestyle changes to keep your hot flashes at bay.
Lifestyle Changes
These can be as simple as the clothes you wear. Layers are key here – you need to be able to strip down (so to speak) anytime, anywhere. While you’re at it, wear natural fibers like linen and cotton. These materials are breathable and far more comfortable than synthetic blends that can increase the heat and perspiration.
Learn and avoid your triggers
Take note of what you’re consuming daily and when your hot flashes are occurring. You may be eating food and drinking beverages that trigger the hot flash. Two common triggers you should watch out for? Caffeine and red wine! Spicy food and lounging in the sun on a hot day can worsen hot flashes, too.
Supplemental Support
The Kindra Core Supplement and Sleep Enhancing Supplement contain two powerhouse ingredients – ayurvedic adaptogen Ashwagandha and a specially distilled white pine bark extract, Pycnogenol. Ashwagandha is clinically shown to manage stress responses by reducing cortisol levels, increasing energy levels by increasing ATP, (a molecule essential for energy production), combatting fatigue, improving focus, strengthening cognitive health and vitality. Its complement, Pycnogenol, supports healthy circulation, and heart health. 77% of women reported improvement in hot flashes after 12 weeks of use.
A reminder…
You’re never alone in this evolution. Kindra created a Facebook group for women experiencing menopause to connect with one another and provide support during this journey. Feel free to join us here. If you’d like to learn more about your body’s menopause transition, take our quiz.
Kindra has an exclusive offer for the Prime Women community. Use PRIME15 for 15% off your first order or subscription.
Read Next:
What You Can Do About Vaginal Dryness
Perimenopause: The Rage is Real
