Intense diet and exercise may lessened symptoms in menopausal women

San Francisco - Researchers at the University of California of San Francisco say losing weight may help modestly reduce hot flashes in menopausal women.

Hot flashes are common in menopausal women, and typically cause sweatiness and redness in the face. They generally last for five or more years. Past research suggests that a higher body mass index (BMI) -- a measurement of height and weight -- is associated with more severe hot flashes, but whether losing weight could make a difference has remained unclear.

Results of new study found that 141 women out of  the 338 that participated in the study said they were less bothered by their hot flashes six months after participating in a weight loss program. 53 reported no change, while 23 reported a worsening of symptoms.

The improvements were associated with decreases in weight, BMI, and waist size. However, there were no significant associations between changes in flashing symptoms and exercise, calorie intake, blood pressure, and overall physical and mental function.

The findings are published in the July 12 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine.