Booze and fruit ease effects of the menopause

Two US studies showed how middle-aged and older women could benefit from a slimming diet and “moderate” amounts of alcohol.

Losing weight as a result of cutting down on fat and eating large amounts of fruit and vegetables was found to reduce or even eliminate hot flushes and night sweats.

Separate research showed that a glass or two of wine or beer a day may lower the risk of developing brittle bones as a result of osteoporosis, associated with hormonal changes after the menopause.

Research scientist Dr Bette Caan said: “Since most women tend to gain weight with age, weight loss or weight gain prevention may offer a viable strategy to help eliminate hot flashes [known as flushes in the UK] and night sweats associated with menopause.”

Both symptoms are believed to be caused by a complex process that involves fluctuating levels of hormones regulating body temperature and sweat glands.

“Drinking moderately as part of a healthy lifestyle that includes a good diet and exercise may be beneficial for bone health, especially in post-menopausal women,” said study author Dr Urszula Iwaniec, from Oregon State University.

“After less than 24 hours to see such a measurable effect was really unexpected.”

Many medications designed to prevent bone loss are expensive and can have unwanted side effects, the researchers said.

While excessive alcohol consumption was harmful, regularly drinking a glass of wine or beer as part of a healthy lifestyle could benefit post-menopausal women, they added.

Both studies were published in the journal Menopause.