Menopause is a phase every woman goes through, but one we often don’t talk about enough. Your body changes, your hormone levels fluctuate, and you may not feel quite like yourself anymore. Many women look for natural ways to get through this phase. Which supplements can help you do that? We’ll discuss that in this blog!
What happens during menopause?
Menopause usually begins between the ages of 45 and 55. Your ovaries gradually start producing fewer hormones, especially estrogen and progesterone. You’ll notice this change in many ways: not only will your periods become irregular (and eventually stop), but your entire body will react to it.
Many women experience hot flashes, mood swings, and sleepless nights. You might gain a few kilos that you didn’t have before, your skin might feel drier, or your hair might start to thin a bit.
What many women don’t know: your heart and bones also become more vulnerable during menopause. Estrogen provided them with extra protection for years, but lower hormone levels mean you have less of that natural protection. That’s why it’s especially important to take good care of yourself.
Which supplements are particularly beneficial during menopause?
Your body is changing and now has different needs than it did 10 years ago. You may not absorb some nutrients as well, while you may use up others more quickly due to all these changes. Eating healthy remains the most important thing, but supplements can help make this period a little easier.
Omega-3
After menopause, your heart receives less of that natural protection from estrogen and needs some extra support. EPA and DHA contribute to normal heart function*—and that’s more important now than ever.
Your brain could also use some extra support during this time. DHA is an important building block for the brain* and helps maintain normal brain function.* You may find that it’s a little harder to concentrate or that you’re at a loss for words more often—omega-3 gives your brain the nutrition it needs.
Many people don’t eat enough fatty fish to get enough omega-3. That’s why at Arctic Blue , we offer both fresh fish oil from wild cod and plant-based algae oil. Both are pure and freshly processed, and the fish oil doesn’t have an unpleasant fishy taste.
Vitamin D
Many people have a vitamin D deficiency. Your body produces vitamin D when sunlight hits your skin, but in the Netherlands, there often isn’t enough sunshine. Vitamin D supports the immune system* and contributes to normal muscle function*. Vitamin D also helps maintain normal bones*, which becomes especially important during menopause.
Magnesium
Magnesium is involved in more than 300 processes in your body. During menopause, your body uses more magnesium, so it doesn’t hurt to pay a little extra attention to this. For example, it helps with fatigue and tiredness*, which is helpful if you’re feeling a bit worn out due to all the changes in your body. Magnesium also supports the normal functioning of muscles and nerves*.
B vitamins
During menopause, you may not feel as energetic as you used to, and B vitamins can help improve that. You also absorb B vitamins less effectively from your diet as you get older. Vitamin B12 helps reduce fatigue and tiredness* and supports your energy levels.* Vitamin B6 helps regulate hormonal activity*.
Calcium
Now that you’re getting less protection from estrogen, your bones could use some extra support. Calcium is necessary for maintaining normal bones* and contributes to normal muscle function*, including that of your heart muscle. Calcium works best in combination with vitamin D: together, calcium and vitamin D help reduce bone mineral loss in menopausal women.*
In conclusion
Menopause is a new phase of life that brings challenges, but also opportunities for a healthier, more mindful way of living. By taking good care of yourself during menopause, you’ll navigate this period with greater confidence. Supplements provide valuable support—for your heart, your brain, your bones, and your overall well-being.
*Health claims approved by the EFSA. The beneficial effects on heart health are obtained with a daily intake of 250 mg of EPA and DHA; 250 mg of DHA for brain function; and 1,200 mg of calcium and 20 micrograms of vitamin D from all sources for the prevention of bone mineral loss in postmenopausal women aged 50 and older.
