Research Explains Why Caffeine is Bad for Postmenopausal Women

Intake of caffeinated drinks triggers hot flashes and night sweats in postmenopausal women, finds a study.

Coffee, tea, energy drinks and certain pain-relieving medications contain caffeine that help activate the brain and nervous system. Nearly 85 percent of Americans daily consume these products. The stimulant effects of caffeine acts the same way as the hormone adrenalin in inducing alertness, attention span and fight or flight responses. But, a recent research by the Mayo Clinic discovered drinking too much caffeine may not benefit postmenopausal women as it heightens vasomotor symptoms like hot flashes and night sweat.

The experts reviewed data of 2,507 women having menopausal symptoms between 2005 and 2011. Their analysis revealed 1,806 women reportedly experienced intense hot flashes and increased body temperature during night time. These participants consumed caffeine-based beverages and drinks very often. However, it was observed drinking coffee and caffeine-based substances controlled mood fluctuation, boosted memory power and concentration in peri-menopausal women.

According to the study reports, almost 79 percent of women in menopausal age and 65 percent of those in post-menopausal phase suffer from vasomotor symptoms and physical discomfort caused by hormonal changes. These conditions can be minimized by leading healthy lifestyle, controlling obesity, abstaining from overindulging on spicy and high-caloric food, alcoholic drinks, drugs and tobacco.

The authors encourage who women to get daily dose of exercises and physical activities like yoga, tai chi and aerobics to stay fit, calm and relaxed.   

"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. Menopause symptoms can be challenging but there are many management strategies to try," said Stephanie Faubion, study author and director of the Women's Health Clinic at Mayo Clinic, Rochester in a news release.

The research is published online in the journal Menopause.