Menopause is the ending of a woman’s reproduction years, which typically occurs between the ages of 45 to 55. As a result of menopause, the body undergoes a loss of a vitamins, minerals, and hormones that a woman needs for an overall healthy well-being. The loss of these vitamins and the decrease in hormones cause several uncomfortable symptoms during menopause and post-menopause including mood swings, hot flashes, fatigue, insomnia, thinning hair, and dry skin.
There are several supplements that can stabilize the hormonal levels and help reduce the symptoms associated with menopause and post-menopause.
Vitamin K
Postmenopausal women have a high risk of fractures due to the bone loss that often occurs during and following menopause. Vitamin K is a fat-soluble vitamin that is important for mineralizing strong bones. Eating dark green leafy vegetables is the easiest way to get a daily supply of Vitamin K, however, if you do not eat foods such as spinach or kale that provide recommended amounts of Vitamin K, supplements such as the Greenergy from EnergyFirst are excellent alternatives to fresh vegetables. Calcium and Vitamin D
Menopausal women have a significant decline in estrogen which not only increases the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, but it can also increase the chance of developing osteoporosis. Vitamin D, a fat soluble vitamin, improves calcium absorption, stimulates the immune system and strengthens bones as well as helps to reduce the risk of some eye diseases found in postmenopausal women. Calcium is important for preventing the loss of bone minerals which can lead to fractures and/or osteoporosis; however, calcium must be combined with Vitamin D for proper absorption of the calcium. Although Vitamin D and calcium are typically found in foods, it is beneficial for menopausal and postmenopausal women to take an additional Vitamin D and Calcium supplement to ensure they are receiving the amount necessary for strong, healthy bones.
Vitamin C
Menopausal women often deal with loose skin and wrinkles due to a loss of collagen. Vitamin C is vital in helping to produce collagen necessary for health, younger looking skin. Vitamin C is also an important antioxidant that helps to protect cells from harmful chemicals found in the environment. Vitamin C can be found in fresh fruits and vegetables as well as small amounts of sunshine. Menopausal and postmenopausal women should take a Vitamin C to help supplement the natural loss that occurs during menopause.
Vitamin B-Complex
Menopausal women typically experience hot flashes due to an upset in the balance of hormones that is metabolized by the estrogen in your body. Vitamin B6 can help to regulate your hormones and decrease the hot flashes. Folate, a B vitamin typically found in green, leafy vegetables is also decreased during menopause. A healthy intake of foliate may be helpful in preventing breast cancer, so it is recommended that menopausal and postmenopausal women take a supplement containing B-12 and folate to build red blood cells and help reduce the risk of breast cancer.
Exercise and Supplements
It is important that menopausal and postmenopausal women get plenty of exercise which is beneficial in helping to build the calcium necessary for strong bones and to help reduce the fatigue that often occurs during menopause. Vitamin and mineral supplements support an overall healthier lifestyle.
You should consult with your physician before taking supplements or vitamins to make sure they will not interfere with any prescription medications you are taking.
