HOT FLASHES

    Not to be confused with a fever, hot flashes can appear suddenly with a stiflingly stuffy hot feeling and reddened sweaty head, face, and neck skin lasting from a few seconds to several minutes. Chills often follow them. Hot flashes occur in over 75% of women at menopause and may occur for more than 5 years. Pregnant women may also experience hot flashes. Menopausal-aged women frequently experience these sudden hot spells with profuse perspiration during the day or night.

    Adrenal-pituitary "storms" create an unstable hypothalamus, which brings about inadequate thermal regulation. Insomnia and resulting anxiety can be a complication. Apparently, the hypothalamus of the brain becomes unable to coordinate with other hormone fluctuations and body temperature changes, due to declining estrogen levels. Busy lifestyles and inadequate rest may intensify the general symptoms. Stress also can play a moderate part.
    * Reduced stress is vital for control of hot flashes. Avoid sugar, caffeine, red meat (arachadonic acid), and chocolate. Use cold-pressed olive oil as a salad dressing. Get enough rest (night sleep and mid-day nap) and aerobic exercise. Take EstrAval and Luminex as directed. Maintain proper nutriition including the Vitality Pack with Oligofructose Complex, CellWise, and ProVex and/or ProVex-Plus. Also enjoy 2 to 4 cups of Melaleuca Herbal Tea each day.