With the health risks associated with conventional hormone-replacement therapy, women are searching for safe and effective ways to reduce hot flashes, prevent osteoporosis, and reduce the risk of heart disease during menopause. In this User's Guide, health writer Kathleen Barnes describes a variety of natural and safe options for navigating the biological changes that come with mid-life. She suggests vitamins, herbs, and other supplements that scientific studies have found helpful in easing a natural transition and for lowering the long-term risk of age related diseases.