Its benefit to the heart remains unproved, and it increases the incidence of hot flashes. Stress might trigger hot flashes, and relaxation can ease them. Exercise and meditation techniques, including yoga, can ease hot flashes, as can avoiding coffee, hot foods, and alcohol. But herbs and alternative products are relatively unstudied and unregulated. In the latest studies, soy seems to have little effect on symptoms.
Experts also doubt that a popular wild yam cream has progesteronelike effects, contrary to claims.
At the same time, herbs that act like estrogen in the body could carry the same cancer risks as prescription estrogen. Those include eating a healthy diet, maintaining an exercise routine, not smoking, and, if necessary, taking medications to control blood pressure and cholesterol. With luck, most women in their 60s, 70s, and beyond will scarcely remember menopause, having grown wiser, freer, and more comfortable in their changing bodies. World Report Inc. All rights reserved.