Originally published Nov 8, 2013."Pause?" How about "Stop! My hormones are going crazy and I don't know what to do!"Of course being a teacher, I began to research this topic sooner rather than later. It pleased me that this is a very common reaction for women going through menopause.Fortunately there has been an increase of awareness and understanding of this once-forbidden topic. Menopause is the time in a woman's life when the functions of the ovaries cease. The ovaries are the main source of female hormones, which control the development of female body. These hormones also produce estrogens, which protect bones. That is why women can develop osteoporosis (thinning of bone) later in life when their ovaries have ceased."Um, okay," I thought. "Anything else? There must be more to it than that." Yep. My research led me to the many other symptoms of menopause, which also included: hot flashes, night sweats, abnormal vaginal bleeding, vaginal itching, dryness, urinary symptoms, weight gain, acne... you name it. This was when I sat down to really pause and ponder what my options would be.Then... FREEDOM! Isoflavones to the rescue!Yes, Isoflavones. What are they you ask? They're the chemical compounds found in plants that are phytoestrogens, soy or plant-derived estrogens. They have a chemical structure similar to the estrogens naturally produced by our body. Two types of isoflavones, genistein and daidzein, are found in soy beans, chick peas, and lentils, and are considered to be the most potent estrogens of the phytoestrogens.I started taking soy as a supplement when I was 40 (not quite ready for the 'Pause). Actually, it was a birthday gift from my son who was working in a health food store at the time. His birthday card to me gave the benefits of taking soy at this new decade of life, so I could avoid some of the symptoms of the 'Pause."Not much of a gift," I thought. But looking back now, I am so grateful for his young wisdom.Since then, I have found other alternative therapies for this 'Pause in my life. There are many supplements and substances that are a "natural" treatment for symptoms of menopause, including Dong Quai, Vitamin E, Chaste Berry, and Licorice. The North American Menopause Society supports the short-term use of Black Cohosh for treating menopausal symptoms.I've come a long way on this journey we call life, and I must admit I am enjoying this 'Pause. I respect and admire Mother Nature; however, I do love the freedom from her interrupting my everyday lifestyle. It's been a good ride, Mother Nature.
