On OTC products for Menopause
Toni McSorley

    Understanding what an OTC product is designed to do is a crucial aspect in deciding what products (if any) are suitable for each individual.  As in other areas of health, no two women are the same where menopause symptoms are concerned, and any product must be aimed at their particular symptoms.  Shotgun approaches are rarely successful.
    The symptoms that are the most concerning are usually associated with the time of life that is leading up to menopause (perimenopause).  These symptoms occur as the body’s hormones are beginning to fluctuate and before the complete cessation of the menstrual cycle.  Hot flashes are common, as are  problems with memory  (its  annoying to walk into a room and not remember what you came for).  Mood swings are exaggerated (wanting to be naked on top of a McDonalds with a deer rifle one moment and crying over the hallmark commercials the next).  Dry skin and hair, insomnia, and abdominal weight gain are also common.
    Much of this misery occurs, not because of a lack of estrogen, but because of a lack of progesterone.  Progesterone is a hormone that can actually morph in the body and become testosterone and estrogen as needed.  As a woman’s body approaches menopause, progesterone levels bottom out, the thyroid is often affected, and hypoglycemia may become uncontrolled.
    Many women turn to soymilk and soybean products to supply a natural estrogen, but these can actually make the symptoms worse.  Since the problem is often an imbalance of progesterone/estrogen due to lowered progesterone levels, adding more estrogens is not the answer. Many doctors, therefore, recommend avoiding these products.
     A natural progesterone cream gives many women relief. Progesterone drawn from plant sources can mimic the body’s natural hormone, whereas synthetic progesterone (which cannot morph) will not provide the balance needed.  It is important to use a high-quality cream (Emerita or ProFema for example) and to use it as directed.
    Black Cohosh  (40 mg per day) is an herb that is often used to ease symptoms.  This herb supports the body’s ability to produce natural estrogen. This can often be combined with another herb, Damiana, which is reported to help the  flagging libido. Damiana may be taken by capsule, 2-3 times per day with food.
    Primrose Oil, Borage Oil or Black Current Seed Oil have been reported to ease hot flashes, dry skin  water-retention and sleep difficulties.  Many women take these as gel-caps, several times during the day with their meals.
    A multi-mineral calcium supplement is highly recommended by most doctors.  Tums may have calcium, but lack other essential elements for calcium absorption.  Iproflavones have been seen to mimic the effect of estrogen in calcium absorption and it is often recommended to have a supplement that also contains this.  Many studies suggest that Vitamin C (250-500 mg ), taken with a calcium supplement, helps to absorb it.
    In addition to the oils already mentioned, the amino acid L-Theanine often seems to help with anxiety, mood swings, depression and insomnia.  100 mg  morning and evening on an empty stomach can enhance serotonin in the system, resulting in a feeling of well-being and relaxation. 
    A good daily multiple-vitamin is a must.  Taking an extra 100mg of B vitamins with it  can reduce stress,  water-retention and help circulation.