Fed up with hot flushes, low mood & weight gain? Healthista’s well-being writer Charlotte Dormon finds six natural remedies to tackle menopause symptoms
For many of us, the journey through peri-menopause and, eventually, menopause can come with many mental and physical changes and challenges.
Whether you’re in your mid-forties and just starting to notice the first signs of peri-menopause or have reached the milestone of full menopause, understanding the natural shifts your body is undergoing can be of great help.
Noticing these changes is key, not only so you can be aware of what the hell is going on, but also so you can take extra care of yourself during the journey.
Understanding Peri-menopause and Menopause
Before exploring the benefits of our menopause supplement selection below, let’s look closely into the stages of peri-menopause and menopause.
Perimenopause is the transitional period that leads up to menopause. It can start in the mid/late thirties to early forties and can last for several years. Women in perimenopause may still have menstrual cycles but might start noticing changes like irregular periods or fluctuating hormone levels.
Menopause, on the other hand, is marked by the end of menstrual cycles, typically occurring around the age 50. It’s diagnosed after a woman has gone 12 months without a menstrual period.
READ MORE: ‘Menopause symptoms made me think I had dementia’
Key Signs and Symptoms of Perimenopause and Menopause:
- Hot flashes and night sweats: Sudden feelings of heat, often followed by sweating.
- Vaginal dryness: Reduced oestrogen can cause discomfort.
- Sleep disturbances: Difficulty falling asleep to waking up due to night sweats.
- Mood swings: Including irritability and periods of depression.
- Weight changes: Fluctuations in metabolism can result in weight gain.
- Thinning hair and dry skin: Declining estrogen affects skin and hair health.
So, let’s explore what natural supplements can do to help tackle these common menopause symptoms. Healthista selects six natural remedies to manage menopause…
Supplement #1 Elle Sera
Derived from natural herbal ingredients, Elle Sera is known as a ‘godsend’ for women going through all types of hormonal challenges, most commonly perimenopause and menopause.
How does it work?
Hormonal Balance: It aids in regulating the hormonal seesaw often present during these phases.
Improved Sleep: Addresses night sweats and promotes restfulness.
Mood Regulation: Calming properties can smooth out emotional highs and lows.
Supplement #2 Viridian Multivitamin for Women 40+
Tailored for women over 40, this multivitamin addresses the nuanced needs of those entering perimenopause and beyond.
How does it work?
Bone Health: Builds bone strength, considering the increased risk of osteoporosis.
Metabolism Support: Essential B vitamins help manage weight.
Enhanced Mood: B12 and folic acid uplift mood and reduce fatigue.
Skin and Hair Health: Antioxidants promote radiance and vitality.
Supplement #3 BetterYou Magnesium
Magnesium is essential for women’s hormonal wellness, especially during the menopausal years
How does it work?
Muscle Relaxation: Alleviates muscle cramps, common during these stages.
Stress Reduction: Supports the nervous system for better stress management.
Bone Integrity: Ensures optimal bone density.
Heart Health: Maintains cardiovascular health amidst hormonal fluctuations.
Supplement #4 Hifas da Terra organic Reishi capsules
Reishi, also known as the ‘mushroom of immortality’, is a revered adaptogen with a legacy in traditional medicine. Hifas da Terra captures the essence of this powerful mushroom in its Reishi supplement.
How does it work?
Immune System Boost: Reishi is known for its immune-modulating properties, ensuring the body is better equipped to handle illnesses and stressors.
Stress and Fatigue Reduction: As an adaptogen, Reishi helps the body adapt to stress, reducing its impact and alleviating fatigue.
Hormonal Balance: For women undergoing hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause, Reishi can offer support in restoring balance.
Antioxidant Powerhouse: Packed with antioxidants, Reishi fights off free radicals, promoting overall cellular health and combating premature ageing
READ MORE: Best diet for menopause – an interview with Dr Clare Bailey
Supplement #5 Correxiko Marine Collagen Powder
Collagen, the protein responsible for skin elasticity and joint health, tends to decrease as we age.
How does it work?
Promoting Skin Health: By replenishing the body’s collagen supply, it aids in maintaining skin elasticity, reducing the appearance of wrinkles, and promoting a youthful glow.
Strengthening Hair and Nails: Collagen plays a role in strengthening hair and nails, preventing breakage and promoting growth.
Joint Health: Regular intake can relieve joint pain, a concern for many women during menopause.
Vaginal health: Vaginal dryness and vaginal atrophy are common symptoms experienced during perimenopause and menopause due to decreased estrogen levels. Ostrogen helps maintain the tissue lining the vagina, ensuring it remains thick, elastic, and moist.
When oestrogen levels decline, these tissues can become thinner, less elastic, and drier, leading to the symptoms of vaginal dryness and atrophy. The vaginal wall is rich in collagen, which provides structure, elasticity, and strength.
Collagen is crucial for maintaining the thickness and resilience of vaginal tissues. As women age and undergo hormonal changes, collagen production decreases. This reduction, coupled with the drop in estrogen levels, can lead to the degradation of vaginal tissue, causing it to become thin and less elastic.
READ MORE: Signs of menopause? 7 things every woman needs to know
Supplement #6 Australian Bush Flower Essences Woman Oral Spray
This unique oral spray is specifically formulated to help women balance hormones. Created by top flower remedies guru Ian White this easy to use spray combines the essence of various Australian wildflowers.
How does it work?
Emotional Balance: Supports emotional well-being, especially during the hormonal swings of perimenopause and menopause.
Reducing Fatigue: Helps revitalise energy levels, combating the fatigue associated with hormonal changes.
Enhanced Intuition and Self-Esteem: By grounding and harmonising energies, it encourages women to trust their intuition and reinforces self-worth.
The journey through perimenopause and menopause, while uniquely personal, doesn’t have to be navigated alone. Remember, while these natural allies offer significant benefits, consult a healthcare professional before introducing new supplements into your regimen. Here’s to empowered and healthy ageing!
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