Caffeine consumption may increase a woman’s difficulties with hot flashes at menopause. A survey was conducted of 2,500 women going through menopause. Analysis of data from the 1,800 who met the study criteria found that those who consumed caffeine during the day were more likely to experience night sweats and troublesome hot flashes.
[Menopause, online July 21, 2014]
Our take: It really doesn’t seem fair that just when you aren’t getting enough sleep because you have been awakened night after night (several times a night), you should drop the caffeine that is probably keeping you going throughout the day. Although surveys are not considered the most sophisticated type of scientific study, the difference in hot flashes and night sweats between women who use caffeine (coffee, tea, carbonated beverages) and those who don’t was statistically significant.
For other ideas on how to beat the hot flashes, you might want to consult our Guide to Menopause.
