hot flashes? These 4 foods may increase your symptoms

Are you a woman in your mid-40s experiencing extreme heat in your upper body and worse…hot flashes? This sudden sensation of heat usually occurs as a result of hormonal changes occurring in your body at this age. As we all know, women go through menopause at the age of 40 and 50. Hot flashes are the most common symptom and can be quite difficult for some women. However, did you know that the type of food you eat can worsen your hot flashes? Yes, you read that. Some foods can harm your body and increase your symptoms. Wondering which foods to stay away from? Here are four everyday foods, as shared by nutritionist Simrun Chopra.

What are hot flashes?

Hot flashes are a common symptom for women during menopause. When hot flashes occur, you may feel a sudden sensation of heat in your upper body. This occurs as a result of the many hormonal changes that occur in your body during menopause. Hot flashes can last from 20-30 seconds to a few minutes.
Also read: Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar shares 3 forgotten foods to beat hot flashes; check them inside

What are the symptoms of hot flashes?

• sudden flare-up of heat in the chest, face, or neck
• heart beat fast
• excessive sweating, especially in the upper body
• red, flushed skin
• irritability and fatigue
• feeling of anxiety

Photo Credit: iStock

Here are 4 foods to avoid if you have hot flashes:

1. Spicy Food

Spicy food is strictly prohibited to control heat. According to Simrun, a chemical called capsaicin in these foods can increase your body temperature and cause hot flashes. Therefore, it is best to limit their intake or avoid them altogether. Instead, consider adding cooling foods like cucumber, cauliflower and bananas to your daily diet.

2. Sugary and refined foods

You should also avoid eating sweet and refined foods. Simran explains that these foods have a high glycemic index and can increase your blood sugar levels. This can disrupt your hormonal balance, triggering hot flashes. Nutritionists suggest enriching your diet with adequate amounts of fiber and protein to keep cravings at bay.

3. Caffeine

A cup of tea or coffee certainly energizes and stimulates the nervous system, but it can also increase body heat. An increase in body temperature is something we should avoid when trying to manage hot flashes. According to a study published in the North American Menopause Society, caffeine may worsen vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes. So, make sure to limit your tea and coffee intake.

4. Alcohol

Did you know that alcohol can also worsen your symptoms? “Alcohol dilates blood vessels, causing reddening of the skin and increasing the frequency of hot flashes,” says Simran. She further suggests avoiding sugary cocktails, as they can also worsen your condition.
Also read: No more sweating over hot flashes! This simple drink could be the key to cooling you off

Watch the full video below:

Hot flashes can be really uncomfortable, but by avoiding these foods, you can manage the symptoms and find relief.