by Dr Ben Anderson DC, Applied Kinesiologyi and Chiropractic Clinic

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Menopause is the natural decline in female sex hormones as a woman ages. The same thing happens to men and is called andropause. In females the transition can be very symptomatic and uncomfortable. Hormone replacement is not a wise decision in most cases. Estrogen therapy causes sex related cancers (breast, uterine) and is dangerous for menopause therapy due to the prolonged nature of the event and therefore the therapy.

Natural methods are safe and effective. They include fat soluble vitamins that support the existing sex hormone processes and herbs that lessen the uncomfortable symptoms. In men the effect tends to be more subtle. Men will gain a round hard belly that is the result of water retention from increased adrenal hormones (women due this to an extent as well). This is the mechanism that drives blood pressure up at this time of life and can lead to premature demise. The weight gain and water retention is due to adrenal hormones which are increased in an attempt to produce more DHEA a male sex hormone produced in the adrenal gland to off set the decrease in sex hormone from the testis. To control the effects of the increased adrenal hormones, herbs that effect the receptors for the adrenal hormones making them have less of an effect while raising natural testosterone levels will help. DHEA can be given to decrease the stress on the adrenal glands as well; this increases motivation and overall feelings of wellbeing.