I've been experiencing symptoms of peri-menopause for the last six years. My hot flashes had returned with a vengeance a few weeks before I started the Zone Diet. They were the worst they had ever been. I suffered through six or more a day and was hot at night, which disturbed my sleep. Well, guess what? Since starting the Zone about a month ago, my hot flashes have disappeared, and I'm no longer throwing off the covers at night trying to cool off enough to go back to sleep! Don't know why, don't know how, but I'm happy! I've only lost four pounds so far, but maintained the loss over a full week of vacation, eating out three meals a day. This new way of eating is so do-able! I love it! Thanks, Dr. Sears!