Menopause is a period every woman goes through, but one we often talk about too little. Your body changes, hormones fluctuate and you may no longer feel completely yourself. Many women look for natural ways to get through this period. Which supplements can help you with that? We discuss that in this blog!
What happens during menopause?
Menopause usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55. Your ovaries slowly start producing fewer hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone. You notice that change everywhere: not only does your menstruation become irregular (and eventually stops), but your whole body reacts to it.
Many women experience hot flashes, mood swings and sleepless nights. You may gain a few kilos that were not there before, your skin may feel drier or your hair may become a bit thinner.
What many women do not know: your heart and bones also become more vulnerable during menopause. Estrogen gave them extra protection for years, but with the lower hormone levels you get less of that natural protection. That is why it becomes extra important to take good care of yourself.
Which supplements are extra valuable during menopause?
Your body is changing and now needs different things than 10 years ago. Some nutrients are absorbed less well, others you actually use up faster because of all the changes. Eating healthily remains the most important, but supplements can help you get through this period a bit more easily.
Omega-3
After menopause, your heart gets less of that natural protection from estrogen and needs some extra support. EPA and DHA contribute to the normal function of the heart*, and that now becomes more important than ever.
Your brain can also use some extra support during this period. DHA is an important building block for the brain* and helps keep your brain function normal.* You may notice that concentrating takes a bit more effort or that you lose a word more often: omega-3 gives your brain the nutrition it needs.
Many people eat too little oily fish to get enough omega-3. That is why at Arctic Blue we have both fresh fish oil from wild cod and plant-based algae oil. Both are pure and freshly processed, and the fish oil has no unpleasant fishy taste.
Vitamin D
Many people have a vitamin D deficiency. Your body produces vitamin D through sunlight on your skin, but in the Netherlands the sun often does not shine enough. Vitamin D supports the immune system* and contributes to the normal function of the muscles*. Vitamin D also contributes to the maintenance of normal bones*, and that becomes extra important during menopause.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in more than 300 processes in your body. During menopause your body uses more magnesium, so it does not hurt to pay some extra attention to this. For example, it helps with tiredness and fatigue*, which is useful if all the changes in your body leave you feeling somewhat exhausted. Magnesium also supports the normal function of muscles and nerves*.
B vitamins
During menopause you may no longer feel as energetic as before, and B vitamins can help improve that. You also absorb B vitamins less well from your food as you get older. Vitamin B12 contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue* and supports your energy level.* Vitamin B6 contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity*.
Calcium
Now that you get less protection from estrogen, your bones can use some extra support. Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones* and contributes to the normal function of the muscles*, including your heart muscle. Calcium works best together with vitamin D: together, calcium and vitamin D help reduce the loss of bone minerals in menopausal women.*
Finally
Menopause is a new phase of life and brings challenges, but also opportunities for a healthier, more conscious way of living. By taking good care of yourself during menopause, you get through this period with more confidence. Supplements are a valuable support in this: for your heart, your brain, your bones and your overall well-being.
*Approved health claims from the EFSA. The beneficial effects for the heart are obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA, 250 mg of DHA for brain function, and 1200 mg of calcium and 20 micrograms of vitamin D from all sources for the loss of bone minerals in menopausal women aged 50 and over.
