Dizziness is a common menopause symptom that can be aggravated by the experience of other menopausal symptoms. However, the primary cause for dizziness is the hormonal imbalance women experience during menopause. The symptom might manifest itself as feelings of lightheadedness, weakness, faintness, unsteadiness and spinning. While the sensation can be incredibly disruptive and distressing, it doesn't have to take over your life.
Woman suffering from dizziness should primarily ensure that they maintain a healthy and balanced diet which includes food groups such as protein, vegetables and healthy fats. Key nutrients also include vitamin B, niacin, potassium, and iron.
Fresh Fruit
Staying hydrated is crucial to preventing dizziness. Fortunately, many fresh fruits offer the combined benefit of moisture and vital nutrients. The high potassium levels found in bananas, grapes, peaches and apricots also makes them particularly well suited to limiting episodes of dizziness.
Liver
Liver's B6 rich content makes it a great food to eat when experiencing episodes of dizziness. However, as it's a red meat, it is advisable to limit your intake to once a week.
Nuts
All nuts - but particularly walnuts, almonds, and cashews - contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin B6. Both of these nutrients are valuable as they are beneficial to overall health and the limitation of dizziness.
Spinach
Spinach is rich in iron, magnesium, and potassium, which means that when enough is consumed, the mighty green can alleviate sensations of dizziness.
Vegetables
Like fruits, vegetables are high in vitamins and minerals. Vegetables like peas, beans, lettuce, tomatoes, asparagus, and cucumbers are also particularly rich in iron, potassium, and vitamin B - all nutrients which limit dizziness.
More about Dizziness during Menopause
In addition to altering your diet to include higher quantities of the foods suggested above, those suffering from dizziness should attempt to maintain an exercise routine and healthy sleep pattern. It is also advisable to eat every three to four hours in order to prevent the drops in blood sugar levels that can lead to dizziness. Where possible medications are also best avoided.
Sources
- Hutchinson, Susan M.D. "The Stages of a Woman's Life: Menstruation, Pregnancy, Nursing, Perimenopause, Menopause". November 2007.
- Love, Susan M.D. Menopause and Hormone Book. New York: Three Rivers Press, 2003.
- BMJ Group. "Menopause: What is it?" Patient Leaflet. 2007