Caffeine Intake Intensifies Hot Flashes and Night Sweats in Postmenopausal Women: Study

Drinking too much coffee aggravates postmenopausal conditions, according to a study.

Intake of caffeine increase mental alertness by stimulating the nervous system and is commonly used as a stimulant. Researchers at the Mayo Clinic found caffeine improves memory, mood and attention span in peri-menopausal women but, exacerbates problems like hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women. The experts conducted a survey involving 2,507 women experiencing menopausal conditions between 2005 and 2011.

They identified nearly 1,806 women suffering from frequent episodes of vasomotor symptoms or intense hot flashes and night sweats. These symptoms were directly related to drinking caffeinated drinks and beverages in large amounts.

"These findings are preliminary, our study suggests that limiting caffeine intake may be useful for those postmenopausal women who have bothersome hot flashes and night sweats," said Stephanie Faubion, study author and director of the Women's Health Clinic at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, in a news release.

 "Menopause symptoms can be challenging but there are many management strategies to try," she adds.

Caffeine based drinks and beverages like coffee, tea, energy drinks and confectionaries are consumed by 85 percent of the Americans on a daily basis. About 79 percent of older women in menopausal age and 65 percent of women who have ended their menstrual cycle endure vasomotor symptoms.However, the authors urge women of menopausal age to practice healthy living habits like maintaining body weight, getting enough rest, remaining calm and cutting down on smoking and tobacco use. They add controlling cravings to binge on spicy food and alcoholic beverages to allay occurrence of discomforting symptoms.

In addition, they recommend women to manage stress and mental health by getting regular physical activity, meditation and practicing yoga and tai chi for relaxation.

More information is available online in the journal Menopause.