If you are among the women who suffer with symptoms of menopause that are uncomfortable or which interfere with your enjoyment of life, don't despair as there is help available. Many women avoid seeking help for this common condition because of the health risks that are associated with many of the treatments for menopause symptoms. There are several natural alternatives available that can help to lessen, and in some cases eliminate many of the symptoms of menopause.

Causes of menopause symptoms
During menopause, the body produces far less estrogen than it is used to having. This results in hormonal imbalances which can bring about a host of symptoms which can vary in frequency and intensity. The most common symptoms are hot flashes, night sweats, fatigue, depression, insomnia, mood swings, irritability, vaginal dryness, nausea and headaches.

Alternative treatments for menopause symptoms
Although hormone replacement therapy (synthetically engineered estrogen replacement) was believed to be the best treatment method for extreme menopause symptoms, it carries with it the risk of developing certain cancers and cardiovascular issues with extended use. In light of this information, natural and safer alternative treatments have risen as a more popular choice for the treatment of symptoms.

Exercise
Exercise can help to reduce the feelings of stress and anxiety commonly associated with menopause. It can also help to stave off weight gain and keep your body more fit and toned. Decreasing the stored fat within the body can help to improve sleeping patterns reducing insomnia and to lessen hot flashes and night sweats. When combined with cardio and aerobic exercise, yoga has been found to be effective in promoting a heightened sense of well being and lowering anxiety and depression levels.

Acupuncture
Women who opt for traditional Chinese acupuncture treatments found a decrease in the intensity of their hot flashes and mood swings in recent studies. It also helped to reduce their anxiety levels with a natural method that poses no health risks.

Observe a healthy diet
Observing a healthy diet that is rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins and healthy fats can help to ease menopause symptoms. Eat foods that are rich in phytoestrogens which are natural estrogen replacements and help to restore hormone balance within the body. Some foods which contain these compounds are soy products and wild yam. Lignans which are found in flaxseed and isoflavones found in beans and whole grain products also help to reduce the symptoms of menopause. Make sure that you get at least 8, 8 ounce glasses of water each day to help keep the body well hydrated as this can be helpful in reducing hot flashes and night sweats.

Things to avoid
Avoid using beverages that contain caffeine and alcohol as these can contribute as triggers for hot flashes, night sweats, anxiety and mood swings. It is also recommended that tobacco products be avoided as well. Spicy foods and hot beverages can also trigger hot flashes and digestive upsets during menopause. You may wish to keep a journal of the foods that seem to trigger episodes so you can lessen your intake of them or eliminate them completely from your diet.

Stress relief
Emotional distress can exacerbate episodes of menopause symptoms and can increase their frequency and intensity. Find ways to lessen your stress load in order to lessen some of the symptoms that you are experiencing. Yoga, meditation, getting into enjoyable and relaxing hobbies and activities that you enjoy are some good ways to help lower your stress levels.

Herbal Remedies
There are several herbal remedies which have been tested and shown promise in relieving menopause symptoms. Black cohosh is known for being a safe alternative for replacing estrogen in the body. it has been found to promote cessation of hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, nervousness, irritability, and to promote a healthy attitude in women experiencing these symptoms.
Clinical studies have linked Ginkgo Biloba with increased mental alertness. Dong quai helps to reduce the intensity and incidences of hot flashes. Extract of sage leaf is also effective in reducing night sweats and hot flashes.

There are many risk free and natural alternative ways to treat the symptoms of menopause. When a combination of exercise, healthy diet and natural menopause supplements are used, many women find the relief that is needed. These alternative treatments provide a more healthy and risk free way to combat the discomfort that may occur during the stages of menopause.