Today, let’s cover more on one of the most common and frustrating menopause symptoms: hot flashes. While you might think a fan is your best friend, your plate can be, too. Let’s get into a delicious, plant-based solution to stay cool—literally!
The Cool Food Connection
Research suggests that incorporating foods rich in phytoestrogens can help reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. These naturally occurring compounds, found in certain plant-based foods, mimic estrogen in the body and can help balance hormones.
Enter Flaxseeds 🥄
Flaxseeds are tiny powerhouses of lignans, a type of phytoestrogen. Studies show they may help ease hot flashes, stabilize mood swings and even support heart health during menopause. Best of all, they’re versatile and easy to incorporate into your diet!
How to Add Flaxseeds to Your Day
- Morning Boost: Sprinkle ground flaxseeds over your oatmeal or cold breakfast cereal.
- Salad Topper: Add a tablespoon of whole or ground flaxseeds to your favorite salad for a nutty crunch.
- Baking Buddy: Use ground flaxseeds as an egg substitute in your baked goods (1 tbsp ground flax + 3 tbsp water = 1 egg).
A Quick Recipe: Flax & Berry Chia Pudding
Ingredients:
-
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup plant-based milk
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 tbsp maple syrup (optional)
- ½ cup fresh or frozen berries
Instructions:
-
- Combine flaxseeds, chia seeds and plant-based milk in a jar. Stir well.
- Add vanilla and sweetener, if using, and stir again.
- Refrigerate for 4 hours (or overnight) until thickened.
- Top with berries and enjoy a cooling, hormone-balancing treat!
Hot flashes don’t have to control your life. A flaxseed-packed diet can empower you to feel more balanced while enjoying some seriously tasty dishes.
What’s your favorite way to enjoy flaxseeds? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to hear from you!
Here’s to staying cool and thriving!
I started out several years ago watching Forks Over Knives, decided to “try out” the plant-based meal plan and had shockingly incredible results. I’ve never turned back. I have lost nearly 50 pounds, and that is just one side effect that me, my family, friends and clients have experienced after making the change.
Having been an incredible cook my entire adult life, I started my own personal chef service, NuYu Nourish, to extend my help to others. I interned under a celebrity chef, became a celebrity chef myself and have been expanding my reach and goals ever since! My plan follows strictly and simply those of Dr. Mcdougall, Dr. T. Colin Campbell and Dr. Esselstyn.
