Fermented Red Clover Consumption May Ease Menopause Symptoms: Experts

Menopause is a phase wherein a woman experiences her menstrual cycle to stop, making her incapable of achieving pregnancy. It is a hormonal event that takes place in women in their late forties or early fifties. Women undergoing menopause may experience hot flashes, vaginal dryness, loss of energy, weight gain, weight fluctuations among other symptoms. As per a recent study carried out by a researcher, Max Norman Tandrup, consuming fermented red clover may not only benefit women with menopause but may also help with age-related bone degeneration. The study involved 60 women with menopause symptoms, the results were promising without any side-effects as otherwise seen in hormonal therapies used for the same purpose.

Red clover, alternatively known as Trifolium pretense, is an herb peculiar to Asia, Africa and Europe. The plant has been used for medicinal purposes for treating a range of issues from skin troubles, bone ailments to boosting immunity and curing hair woes. While alternative therapies like Ayurveda can go a long way in checking menopause and associated symptoms, making minor changes in regular diet may also help battle the condition better.

"Clinical studies have shown eating soy (the equivalent of 2/3 cups of soybeans daily) to be effective in relieving hot flashes and vaginal atrophy," notes Shilpa Arora ND, a renowned Health Practitioner, Nutritionist and certified Macrobiotic Health Coach. Regular consumption of food items coming from the cabbage family may also help a great deal; these would include cauliflower, broccoli, mustard, turnip, cabbage, kale and Brussels sprouts.

Another study conducted by the experts at the University of Massachusetts Amherst in the US, linked regular vitamin D and calcium consumption with lowered risk of early menopause.