Natural Support for Menopause Symptoms
this blog post is sponsored by Joanne’s Place Health Foods
located in Lindsay and Peterborough, Ontario
If you’re navigating menopause or the years leading up to it (aka perimenopause), I want you to know—you’re not required to suffer for the rest of your life. Menopause is a completely natural phase of life, but let’s be honest, it’s not talked about enough and the research on both holistic and medical treatments is, well, dismal. Symptoms like hot flashes, sleepless nights, mood swings, and even concerns about bone health can make these changes feel overwhelming…especially when you’re not sure where to turn.
When I first started learning about how the body changes during menopause, I was amazed at how much natural support is available to help ease the transition. As a Holistic Menstrual Health Practitioner & Educator, I love looking at the the PIES effect of any experience (Physical, intellectual, emotional, and spiritual).
For this article, I chatted with my friends at Jo Anne’s Place because they have an incredible selection of natural products that can help you feel more balanced and supported during this time of transition. What’s even better? They’ve almost always got a Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN) onsite to help you choose the best options for your unique needs.
In this article, I’ll walk you through some of the supportive natural solutions available, from hormone-balancing seeds to herbal teas that can help with stress or night sweats. These options are here to support your body as it goes through this “second puberty” — now, as always, make sure to check with your primary healthcare provider before trying something new.
Let’s dive in!!
What’s the Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?
Understanding the difference between perimenopause and menopause can help you better manage your symptoms and choose the right support for YOU.
Perimenopause is the transitional phase before menopause, often starting in your 40s (but it can begin earlier). Hormone levels start to fluctuate, leading to irregular periods, mood changes, and symptoms like hot flashes. You might still get periods, but they can be unpredictable due to reduced ovarian function.
Menopause is officially reached when you haven’t had a period for 12 consecutive months. At this point, estrogen and progesterone levels drop significantly, bringing symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and changes in bone density.
“I don’t know why I can’t just have them take it [my uterus] out” I hear this statement a lot from folks when talking about perimenopause and menopause. Many think that because they might on longer want to reproduce, that their uterus no longer serves any valuable functions. The truth is, supporting ovarian production for as long as possible is actually beneficial for your long-term health. The longer that we can cycle for, the longer that our muscles, bones, brain, and body are supported with their functional tasks - even if the cycle is longer than it was in our most fertile years.
So, while both stages of normal aging bring challenges, the good news is that natural support is available to help manage symptoms and support your body through it all.
Ways to Support Your Menopausal Body
Okay, so we’ve already established that the body goes through a lot of changes during menopause. Again, think second puberty (I see you adult acne + hormone induced mood swings) What I’ve learned in my practice and education is that with the right support, you can in fact feel more balanced and in control.
Hormonal Balance
Hormones are chemical messengers that move throughout the body to communicate how and when to execute all of the functions within our bodies. They WILL change as we age, I mean - they change every month, altering our brain function by 25% each week. So as the frequency and intensity of hormone fluctuations increases, adding in some supportive practices is key to managing menopause symptoms. Some natural products that can help include:
Flaxseeds & Flaxseed Oil – Flaxseeds contain lignans, natural compounds that help balance estrogen levels. Adding them to your diet can support hormonal health.
Try: Jo Anne’s Place Bulk Organic Flaxseeds or FLORA Flax Seed Oil.
Maca Root – This adaptogenic herb is known for its ability to balance hormones, boost energy, and improve mental clarity.
Try: Ultimate Maca Energy.
Special Note: I truly believe that there is no such thing as a “forever balance” with hormones. Just like the food we eat, the people we see, and the things we do changes each day, so does the molecular makeup and communication in our bodies.
Managing Hot Flashes & Night Sweats
Hot flashes and night sweats can disrupt sleep and leave you feeling drained. Thankfully, several natural options can help cool things down.
Vitamin E & Curcumin – Studies have shown these nutrients can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes.
Try: New Roots Vitamin E8, Natural Factors Theracurcumin.
Black Cohosh – A popular herbal remedy that has been used for years to relieve hot flashes and hormonal fluctuations.
Try: Nature’s Way Black Cohosh.
Supporting Bone Health
Did you know that menopause can increase the risk of osteoporosis? As estrogen levels drop, bone density can decrease, making it crucial to support bone health with the right nutrients. This is also why building and maintaining muscle before menopause can make a difference in the way that we age.
Calcium & Vitamin D3 – These essential nutrients help keep bones strong and reduce the risk of fractures.
Try: Prairie Naturals Vitamin D3, Certified Naturals Calcium-Magnesium Plus K2.
Bio-Strath – A supplement shown to improve the vitality of bone-building cells and overall bone strength.
Try: Bio-Strath.
Liver Support for Hormonal Balance
You might not think about your liver when it comes to menopause, but it plays a huge role in hormone regulation and detoxification. A healthy liver can help process excess hormones and support overall balance.
Some gentle ways to support your liver include:
FLORA Flor-Essence Herbal Cleanse – A detoxifying blend that supports the adrenal glands, thyroid, and liver function.
St. Francis Milk Thistle – A gentler option to nourish and protect the liver while promoting healthy hormone balance.
Taking care of your liver can make a big difference in how you feel during menopause.
Convenient Combination Products for Menopause Relief
I super understand that remembering to take 20 different supplements can be challenging and, at times unattainable. So, if you’re someone who prefers an all-in-one approach, there are some great combination products that blend key ingredients to help with multiple symptoms.
My friends at Jo Anne’s Place recommended these three all-in-one supplements to help you through the change.
Smart Solutions Menosmart – Helps reduce hot flashes, night sweats, and promotes a calm mood.
Naka Nutri-Meno – A liquid formula designed specifically for menopausal and post-menopausal women.
Sisu MenoEase – Supports a wide range of menopause symptoms, including insomnia, fatigue, and nervousness.
These convenient formulas can make it easier to stay consistent with your wellness routine.
Herbal Teas for Natural Symptom Relief
Sometimes, a warm cup of tea can do wonders for menopause symptoms. Personally, I’m a big fan of tea for many reasons. Herbal teas can help with stress, hormone balance, and even night sweats. Plus, they say that holding a cup of tea near your heart while feeling sadness can have a similar effect as a big warm hug!
Some great options include:
Tulsi (Holy Basil) + Ginger Tea – Helps lower cortisol levels and reduce stress.
Fennel Tea – Provides a natural estrogen boost to help with hormonal balance and reduce night sweats.
Sage Tea – Known for its drying effect, making it helpful for reducing excessive sweating and hot flashes.
Incorporating these teas into your daily routine is a simple, comforting way to support your body naturally - especially if you’re already a tea-loving lady.
Expert Guidance at Jo Anne’s Place
Navigating menopause can feel overwhelming, but you don’t have to do it alone. At Jo Anne’s Place, their team and Registered Holistic Nutritionist (RHN) is available to help you find the right products and create a personalized plan based on your specific needs. Whether you’re looking for supplements, teas, or dietary changes, their team is ready to support you every step of the way.
Final Thoughts
Menopause is a significant physical and mental transition, but with the right natural support, you can feel empowered and in control of your health. From hormone-balancing supplements to bone-strengthening nutrients and calming herbal teas, Jo Anne’s Place offers a variety of options to help you feel your best.
If you’re looking for natural menopause support, visit Jo Anne’s Place in Lindsay or Peterborough, ON, and speak with their knowledgeable team. They’re here to help you make informed choices that support your health and well-being.
Remember: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice from your healthcare provider.