drugs for menopause

Hi Alberta,  It sounds like you are experiencing the results of low hormone levels.  You don't give your age, but I would guess this is perimenopause or menopause.  Once symptoms get to the level where they are significant enough to impact your quality of life is the time to consider hormone therapy.  Estrogens treat hot flashes and dry vagina and help with painful sex; testosterone creates our sex drive; progesterone is a mood stabilizer so we feel less anxious, moody, unsettled, angry, sad...And having hormones in good balance helps with weight maintenance.  When your body is functioning efficiently, good nutrition and exercise will help you maintain your weight.  Please see my posting on bioidentical hormone therapy so you have the information you need before seeing your provider.

As far as foods to help symptoms, I find these are not so helpful to most women once they are into the more significant symptom severity.  Black cohosh (40-80mg) a day can be helpful with hot flashes, as can soy.  With soy, you want to be cautious of what you buy.  Much of it in this country is genetically altered (label will say GMO), so buy organic.  There is a lot of conflicting research on soy, for and against its use, so be moderate in your use.  Progesterone cream can be helpful with moods and sleep.  Be sure to buy a brand with at least 450 mg. per ounce.

It's helpful to find others who are "in the same boat" or friends who have already passed menopause, so you can talk and share information and remedies.  Good support is the best medicine.  Good luck as you find your way, Sandy