You're hot then you're cold… unlike the Katy Perry song, hot flashes are NOT fun.

And from an Eastern medicine perspective, they may also signify "stuck energy" or issues with stress response and detox pathways.

Major ugh.

But wait, you are not destined to be stuck in the night sweat - hot flash cycle forever!

Let's unpack these sweaty episodes:

Common Triggers for Hot Flashes

1. Stress: Emotional, physical, and chemical stress can all contribute. Examples include:

   • High-intensity workouts followed by stressful to do list.

   • Emotional events like a job change, divorce, or death.

   • Chemical triggers such as caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and fermented foods.

2. Dietary Factors: Foods high in sugars, alcohol, and certain irritants (like nightshade vegetables) can exacerbate symptoms.

3. Liver and Gut Health: According to traditional Chinese medicine, nighttime hot flashes often occur during liver detoxification hours (1-3 AM). Issues like bloating, constipation, or diarrhea can signal gut-related concerns.

So let's make it stop!!

1. Start with Testing: A personalized approach begins with understanding your body's unique needs. Recommended tests include:

   • Dutch Test: A comprehensive hormone test to pinpoint imbalances.

   • GI Map: To assess gut health and ensure proper digestion.

   • Full Thyroid Panel: Since the thyroid regulates body temperature, a detailed evaluation of TSH, T3, T4, and antibodies is essential.

2. Manage Stress:

   • Incorporate meditation, mindfulness, or yoga and BOUNDARIES

   • Use adaptogens like ashwagandha or rhodiola to support cortisol regulation.

3. Support Detox Pathways:

   • Water-Soluble Pathway: Stay hydrated, add mineral-rich foods, and boost lymphatic flow through gentle exercise or dry brushing.

   • Fat-Soluble Pathway: Focus on liver and gut health by reducing alcohol and sugar, incorporating fiber, and addressing digestive concerns.

4. Adjust Your Diet:

   • Avoid or limit caffeine, alcohol, spicy foods, and fermented foods if they trigger symptoms.

   • Opt for anti-inflammatory and hormone-balancing foods like leafy greens, healthy fats, and lean proteins.

5. Consider Targeted Supplements:

   • Adaptogens for stress.

   • Liver-supportive nutrients like milk thistle and dandelion root.

   • Probiotics to enhance gut health.

Candace did it! She struggled with hot flashes for nearly two years despite trying medications, OBGYN recommendations, and advice from friends. After starting a customized protocol based on DUTCH test results, her symptoms initially worsened as her body released a backlog of hormones. Within weeks, the hot flashes significantly decreased and eventually disappeared. Today, she sleeps soundly and doesn't wake up in a pool of sweat!

If you are ready to tackle the hot flashes FOR GOOD, I've got a 12 week hormone solution plan for you: https://drbethwestie.com/waitlist/