Understanding and Preventing Hot Flashes: A Comprehensive Guide

Hot flashes--the sudden and extreme feeling of warmth that spreads throughout your body--occur mostly during and after menopause. Women who have just given birth may experience hot flashes as well but in a more temporary capacity than the hot flashes of menopausal women. Preventing hot flashes can start with assessing your lifestyle and adjusting as necessary.

Exercise

• Exercise is not only good for your overall health, but can help prevent hot flashes. Exercise that also de-stresses you can be extra helpful in preventing discomfort. Cooling down after exercises can also help.

Eliminate Food Triggers

• Avoid foods that trigger hot flashes. Spicy foods, as well as caffeinated and alcoholic drinks are more likely to produce hot flashes in women.

No Smoking

• Smoking has been shown to be associated with a higher occurrence of hot flashes. Quit smoking to prevent further uncomfortable episodes.

Dietary Supplements

• The Mayo Clinic suggests that some dietary supplements may keep hot flashes at bay (see Resources). Ask your doctor about taking soy supplements, vitamin E or red clover.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

• Some women find no relief from hot flashes with lifestyle changes. In these cases, hormone replacement therapy may be required in order to prevent hot flashes.