How important are supplements during the menopause?

Posted on October 12, 2023 by Sally-Anne Turner

When women go through menopause, they are approaching the point at which they can no longer menstruate or reproduce, and as a result, their hormones, vitamins and minerals are constantly fluctuating. This transitional phase typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, though some women may experience it earlier or later. During this time, the body undergoes profound physiological changes that extend far beyond the cessation of menstruation. The decline in reproductive hormones, particularly oestrogen and progesterone, creates a cascade effect throughout the body, influencing everything from bone density and cardiovascular health to mood regulation and cognitive function. In order to combat the negative health effects of menopause, research shows that taking supplements to rebalance your general health is a great way to improve quality of life and maintain optimal wellbeing during this significant life transition.

The importance of proper nutrition and supplementation during menopause cannot be overstated. As hormonal levels shift, the body's ability to absorb and utilise certain nutrients may be compromised, whilst the demand for other nutrients increases significantly. This creates a perfect storm where deficiencies can develop even in women who maintain what they consider to be a healthy diet. Many women find themselves struggling with symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, mood swings, brain fog, weight gain, and decreased bone density without understanding that nutritional deficiencies may be contributing to the severity of these experiences. The good news is that with proper assessment and targeted supplementation, many of these symptoms can be significantly alleviated, allowing women to navigate menopause with greater comfort and confidence.

Here at Bodyline, we want to help menopausal women reach their optimum health levels once again and get back to their best selves. That's why we've put together this comprehensive guide to taking supplements, including vitamins, minerals and hormones, during menopause. Our approach is rooted in clinical excellence and personalised care, recognising that every woman's experience of menopause is unique. We understand that the one-size-fits-all approach to menopause management simply doesn't work, which is why our specialist team takes the time to understand your individual symptoms, health history, and wellness goals before recommending any treatment pathway.

Based on blood testing and analysis, medical wellness clinics like us here at Bodyline can identify the vitamins, minerals and hormones that are lacking in a menopausal woman's body and prescribe the best, personalised recipe of supplements to return them back to their pre-menopause selves. Our comprehensive blood testing examines over 11 key biomarkers that are particularly relevant to menopausal health, providing a detailed picture of your hormonal status, nutritional levels, and overall metabolic function. This scientific approach ensures that recommendations are based on your actual physiological needs rather than generalised assumptions about what menopausal women require. We can also advise the best lifestyle changes, diet, and exercise to improve their overall health, creating a holistic treatment plan that addresses menopause from multiple angles for the most effective and sustainable results.

What Are Supplements?

Supplements are dietary products that contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other substances intended to supplement one's diet. They are commonly available in various forms, including capsules, tablets, powders, and liquids. Supplements can be used to fill potential nutrient gaps in the diet and support overall health and well-being. The supplement industry has grown tremendously over recent years, with an ever-expanding range of products claiming various health benefits. However, not all supplements are created equal, and the quality, bioavailability, and efficacy can vary significantly between manufacturers and formulations.

Understanding what supplements actually are and how they function in the body is crucial for making informed decisions about their use during menopause. Supplements work by providing concentrated amounts of specific nutrients that may be difficult to obtain in sufficient quantities through diet alone. For menopausal women, this becomes particularly relevant as hormonal changes can increase the body's requirements for certain nutrients whilst simultaneously impairing the absorption of others. For example, the decline in oestrogen affects how the body processes calcium, making it more challenging to maintain adequate levels through diet alone, even when consuming calcium-rich foods regularly.

The regulatory landscape for supplements differs from that of prescription medications, which is why it's essential to source supplements from reputable providers and, ideally, under the guidance of qualified healthcare professionals. At Bodyline, we only recommend pharmaceutical-grade supplements that have been tested for purity, potency, and bioavailability. This ensures that when you take a supplement as part of your menopause management plan, you're receiving exactly what the label promises in a form that your body can effectively utilise. Our clinical team stays informed about the latest research in nutritional science to ensure that our recommendations reflect current best practices in menopausal health management.

It's also important to understand that whilst supplements can be incredibly beneficial, they are intended to complement, not replace, a healthy diet. The term "supplement" itself indicates that these products are meant to add to or enhance your nutritional intake, not serve as a substitute for proper nutrition. A balanced diet rich in whole foods remains the foundation of good health during menopause and throughout life. However, even with the best dietary practices, many menopausal women will benefit from targeted supplementation to address the specific challenges posed by hormonal changes and the natural ageing process.

Why Do You Lack Supplements During the Menopause?

During the menopause, hormonal changes can lead to various symptoms and changes in the body. These changes can affect nutrient absorption, metabolism, and hormonal balance. Additionally, the natural ageing process can contribute to a decline in certain nutrients, further exacerbating potential deficiencies. As a result, menopausal women may lack certain vitamins, minerals, and hormones that are essential for maintaining health and managing menopausal symptoms. The reasons for these deficiencies are multifaceted and interconnected, creating a complex picture that requires professional assessment and personalised intervention.

One of the primary reasons for nutrient deficiencies during menopause relates to the dramatic decline in oestrogen levels. Oestrogen doesn't just control reproductive function; it plays a crucial role in numerous physiological processes throughout the body. This hormone influences how the body absorbs and utilises various nutrients, particularly calcium and vitamin D, which are essential for bone health. As oestrogen levels drop, the efficiency of these processes decreases, meaning that even if you're consuming adequate amounts of these nutrients, your body may not be processing them as effectively as it did in your pre-menopausal years. This is why many women experience accelerated bone density loss during and after menopause, increasing their risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

The metabolic changes that accompany menopause also contribute to nutritional challenges. Many women notice that they gain weight more easily during menopause, particularly around the abdomen, even if their eating habits haven't changed significantly. This shift in body composition isn't just about aesthetics; it reflects fundamental changes in how the body processes and stores energy. These metabolic alterations can affect the absorption and utilisation of various nutrients, creating a situation where nutritional needs increase at the same time that the body becomes less efficient at extracting and using nutrients from food. This metabolic shift also affects blood sugar regulation, which is why some menopausal women develop insulin resistance or experience increased cravings for carbohydrates.

Digestive changes during menopause further compound nutritional challenges. Many women experience changes in gut function, including slower digestion, increased bloating, and altered bowel habits. These digestive issues can impair nutrient absorption, particularly of fat-soluble vitamins like vitamins D, E, and K. Additionally, as we age, stomach acid production naturally decreases, which can affect the absorption of certain nutrients, particularly vitamin B12, iron, and calcium. This is why blood testing becomes so important during menopause – it allows healthcare professionals to identify specific deficiencies and tailor supplementation accordingly rather than taking a scattergun approach.

Lifestyle factors associated with menopause can also contribute to nutritional deficiencies. Sleep disruption, which affects a significant proportion of menopausal women, can impact appetite regulation, food choices, and the body's ability to repair and regenerate tissues. Stress, which often increases during the menopausal years due to various life circumstances, depletes certain nutrients, particularly B vitamins and magnesium. Many women also find that their dietary habits change during menopause, perhaps eating less due to reduced appetite or making different food choices in an attempt to manage symptoms or weight. These changes can inadvertently lead to nutritional gaps that supplementation can help address.

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Which Vitamins and Hormones Can Be Low in the Menopause?

Several vitamins and hormones can be low or imbalanced during the menopause. It is personalised to everyone, so you may only be deficient in a few. That's why personalised treatments are vital in targeting menopause-related ailments. At Bodyline, our M Plan includes comprehensive blood testing that measures multiple biomarkers to create a complete picture of your hormonal and nutritional status. This scientific approach ensures that any supplementation or hormone replacement therapy is precisely targeted to your individual needs rather than based on generalised assumptions about what menopausal women require. Understanding which specific vitamins and hormones commonly become depleted during menopause helps explain why targeted supplementation can be so transformative for managing symptoms and maintaining overall health.

Vitamin D

Menopausal women may have lower levels of vitamin D due to decreased sun exposure and age-related changes in skin. Vitamin D is crucial for bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Studies show that vitamin D improves quality of life in menopausal women by reducing the risk and symptoms of osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. The importance of vitamin D during menopause extends far beyond its well-known role in calcium absorption and bone health. This fat-soluble vitamin functions more like a hormone in the body, influencing the expression of hundreds of genes and playing a role in virtually every organ system.

In the UK, vitamin D deficiency is particularly common due to our northern latitude and frequently overcast weather, which limits the skin's ability to synthesise vitamin D from sunlight exposure. During the winter months, from October to March, the sun isn't strong enough at UK latitudes for the skin to produce vitamin D, making supplementation especially important during this period. For menopausal women, maintaining adequate vitamin D levels becomes even more critical as the protective effects of oestrogen on bone density decline. Research suggests that vitamin D supplementation, particularly when combined with calcium, can significantly reduce the risk of fractures in postmenopausal women.

Beyond bone health, vitamin D deficiency has been linked to increased severity of menopausal symptoms, including mood disturbances, fatigue, and muscle weakness. Some studies suggest that adequate vitamin D levels may help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flushes, though more research is needed to confirm this relationship. Vitamin D also plays a crucial role in immune function, which is particularly relevant as immune function naturally declines with age. Many healthcare professionals now recommend that menopausal women maintain vitamin D levels in the optimal range rather than just avoiding deficiency, which may require supplementation of 1000-2000 IU daily or more, depending on individual blood test results and risk factors.

B Vitamins

Hormonal changes and stress during the menopause can deplete B vitamins, including B6, B12, and folate. These vitamins are important for energy production, mood regulation, and cognitive function. Clinical researchers say that the role of B vitamins like vitamin B12 cannot be overestimated, as correct dosage can reduce the cognitive decline through the menopause and even decrease the risk of dementia. The B vitamin complex consists of eight distinct vitamins, each with unique functions, though they often work synergistically in the body. During menopause, several B vitamins become particularly important for managing symptoms and maintaining overall health.

Vitamin B6 plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter production, including serotonin and dopamine, which influence mood, sleep, and appetite. Many menopausal women find that B6 supplementation helps with mood swings, irritability, and depression. This vitamin is also involved in the metabolism of oestrogen, which may help the body adapt to changing hormone levels more smoothly. Vitamin B12 is essential for nerve function, red blood cell formation, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency can cause fatigue, weakness, cognitive difficulties, and mood disturbances – symptoms that can easily be mistaken for menopausal symptoms or simply attributed to ageing. As mentioned earlier, B12 absorption decreases with age due to reduced stomach acid production, making supplementation increasingly important for women over 50.

Folate, also known as vitamin B9, works closely with B12 in various metabolic processes and is particularly important for cardiovascular health. Adequate folate levels help regulate homocysteine, an amino acid that, when elevated, increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Since cardiovascular risk increases significantly after menopause due to the loss of oestrogen's protective effects, maintaining optimal folate levels becomes increasingly important. Other B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), and pantothenic acid (B5), all contribute to energy production and metabolic function, helping combat the fatigue that many menopausal women experience. A high-quality B-complex supplement can provide comprehensive support for these interconnected functions.

Calcium

Estrogen plays a role in calcium absorption, and its decline during menopause can lead to a higher risk of osteoporosis. Adequate calcium intake is essential for maintaining bone density and preventing fractures. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body, with 99% of it stored in bones and teeth, where it provides structural support. The remaining 1% circulates in the blood and is crucial for muscle contraction, nerve transmission, blood clotting, and numerous other physiological processes. During menopause, the dramatic decline in oestrogen levels disrupts the delicate balance between bone formation and bone resorption, leading to accelerated bone loss.

Women can lose up to 20% of their bone density in the five to seven years following menopause, with the most rapid loss occurring in the first few years after periods stop. This accelerated bone loss significantly increases the risk of osteoporosis, a condition characterised by weak, porous bones that are prone to fractures. Hip, spine, and wrist fractures are particularly common in women with osteoporosis and can have serious consequences for independence, quality of life, and even mortality, especially in older women. This is why maintaining adequate calcium intake during and after menopause is absolutely crucial for long-term skeletal health.

The recommended daily calcium intake for postmenopausal women is typically 1200mg, though individual needs may vary based on factors such as diet, bone density, and other health conditions. It's important to note that calcium supplementation is most effective when combined with adequate vitamin D, as vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption. Additionally, calcium should ideally be taken in divided doses throughout the day rather than all at once, as the body can only absorb a limited amount at one time. At Bodyline, we help patients understand not just whether they need calcium supplementation, but also the optimal form, dosage, and timing to maximise absorption and effectiveness whilst minimising potential side effects such as constipation or kidney stones in susceptible individuals.

Zinc

Zinc is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions, including hormone regulation, immune system function, and cell growth. During menopause, the body undergoes hormonal changes, and maintaining adequate levels of zinc becomes even more important. Zinc supplementation helps alleviate menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Additionally, zinc is known for its immune-boosting properties. By supplementing with zinc, women can strengthen their immune response and reduce the risk of infections.

Zinc is involved in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, making it essential for numerous physiological processes. For menopausal women, zinc's role in hormone metabolism is particularly relevant. This mineral is necessary for the production and regulation of various hormones, including thyroid hormones and sex hormones. Adequate zinc levels support the body's ability to adapt to changing hormone levels during menopause, potentially easing the transition and reducing symptom severity. Zinc also plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy skin, which many women notice becomes drier and less elastic during menopause due to declining oestrogen levels. Supplementing with zinc can help support skin health, wound healing, and the maintenance of collagen structure.

The immune-supporting properties of zinc are well-documented and become increasingly important as we age and immune function naturally declines. Zinc is necessary for the development and function of immune cells, and deficiency can impair immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections and illnesses. Many people are familiar with zinc lozenges for treating colds, but maintaining adequate zinc levels through regular supplementation may help prevent infections in the first place. Zinc also has antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from oxidative damage, which contributes to ageing and various chronic diseases. For menopausal women, who face increased oxidative stress due to hormonal changes, zinc's antioxidant effects provide additional protective benefits.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a crucial role throughout the body, including in muscle and nerve function, blood sugar regulation, blood pressure maintenance, bone formation, and mental health. These health concerns often become more prevalent during menopause. Magnesium supplements are known for their benefits in promoting heart health, reducing blood pressure, lowering the risk of diabetes, combating osteoporosis, and, when taken in the form of magnesium citrate, relieving constipation – another symptom of the menopause.

Magnesium is sometimes referred to as nature's tranquiliser due to its calming effects on the nervous system. For menopausal women struggling with anxiety, irritability, or sleep disturbances, magnesium supplementation can be particularly beneficial. This mineral helps regulate neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and sleep, including GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid). Many women find that taking magnesium in the evening helps improve sleep quality and reduces the frequency of night-time awakenings, which are common complaints during menopause. Magnesium also helps relax muscles, which can reduce tension headaches and muscle cramps, both of which some women experience more frequently during menopause.

The role of magnesium in bone health is often overlooked, with calcium receiving most of the attention, but magnesium is equally important for maintaining strong bones. Approximately 60% of the body's magnesium is stored in bone tissue, where it contributes to bone structure and influences the activity of osteoblasts and osteoclasts, the cells responsible for bone formation and resorption. Magnesium also affects the metabolism of vitamin D and parathyroid hormone, both of which regulate calcium levels and bone health. Research suggests that adequate magnesium intake is associated with higher bone density and reduced fracture risk in postmenopausal women. At Bodyline, we often recommend magnesium supplementation as part of a comprehensive approach to maintaining skeletal health during and after menopause.

Omega 3s

These fatty acids are important for health of the brain and the heart, as well as being involved in the function of the immune system and dealing with inflammation. They are also beneficial for bone health. All the benefits of taking omega 3 fatty acids supplements align with the needs of menopausal women, and since women generally do not get enough of these important acids, it's a good idea to supplement them.

Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), are essential fats that the body cannot produce on its own, meaning they must be obtained through diet or supplementation. The primary dietary sources are fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, but many people, particularly those who don't regularly consume fish, don't get adequate amounts through diet alone. For menopausal women, omega-3s offer multiple benefits that directly address common concerns during this life stage. These fatty acids have powerful anti-inflammatory properties, which is particularly relevant as inflammation increases with age and contributes to numerous chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, arthritis, and cognitive decline.

Cardiovascular health becomes a primary concern after menopause, as the protective effects of oestrogen on the heart and blood vessels diminish. Omega-3 fatty acids support heart health through multiple mechanisms: they help reduce triglyceride levels, lower blood pressure, decrease the risk of abnormal heart rhythms, and reduce the formation of arterial plaques. Research has shown that regular omega-3 supplementation can significantly reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke, making these fatty acids an important component of cardiovascular disease prevention in postmenopausal women. The brain health benefits of omega-3s are equally important, as these fatty acids are crucial components of brain cell membranes and support cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation.

Many menopausal women report experiencing brain fog, memory difficulties, and mood disturbances, and omega-3 supplementation may help alleviate these symptoms. Some research suggests that omega-3s may help reduce the frequency and severity of hot flushes, though more studies are needed to confirm this benefit. The anti-inflammatory properties of omega-3s also support joint health, which is relevant as many women experience increased joint pain and stiffness during menopause. At Bodyline, we typically recommend omega-3 supplements that provide at least 1000mg of combined EPA and DHA daily, though individual needs may vary based on dietary intake and specific health concerns.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is another vitamin involved in maintaining bone density, which is vital in preventing osteoporosis. Its antioxidant effect may also help reduce the risk of heart disease which is more common after menopause. Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that serves numerous functions in the body. As a powerful antioxidant, vitamin C protects cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable molecules that contribute to ageing and the development of various diseases. During menopause, when oxidative stress increases due to hormonal changes and natural ageing processes, maintaining adequate vitamin C levels becomes increasingly important for overall health and disease prevention.

The role of vitamin C in collagen synthesis is particularly relevant for menopausal women. Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body, providing structure to skin, bones, tendons, and blood vessels. As oestrogen levels decline during menopause, collagen production decreases, leading to visible signs of ageing such as wrinkles, sagging skin, and reduced skin elasticity. Adequate vitamin C intake supports collagen production, helping to maintain skin health and appearance. Beyond cosmetic concerns, collagen is also essential for bone health, as it forms the framework upon which minerals like calcium are deposited. Some research suggests that higher vitamin C intake is associated with greater bone density and reduced fracture risk in postmenopausal women.

Vitamin C also plays a crucial role in immune function, supporting the activity of various immune cells and enhancing the body's ability to fight infections. This immune support becomes increasingly important as immune function naturally declines with age. Additionally, vitamin C enhances the absorption of non-haem iron (the type of iron found in plant foods), which is relevant for menopausal women who may be at risk of iron deficiency, particularly if they experience heavy periods during the perimenopausal transition. The cardiovascular benefits of vitamin C include supporting healthy blood vessel function and potentially reducing blood pressure, both of which contribute to heart health in postmenopausal women. Most adults can meet their vitamin C needs through a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, but supplementation may be beneficial for those with inadequate dietary intake or increased needs.

Hormone Replacement Therapy

Luckily, hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be prescribed to help manage the effects of estrogen decline and keep levels steady to alleviate the symptoms of low hormone levels. When personalised with prescriptions titrated to your blood analysis, symptoms are targeted and will alleviate over time to improve health and overall quality of life. At Bodyline, our approach to HRT is highly individualised, recognising that every woman's hormonal needs are unique. Through comprehensive blood testing and detailed symptom assessment, we create bespoke HRT prescriptions that address your specific hormonal deficiencies and symptoms rather than using a standardised approach.

The benefits of properly prescribed and monitored HRT extend far beyond symptom relief. Research has shown that HRT, when initiated at the appropriate time and used by suitable candidates, can provide significant health benefits including protection against osteoporosis, reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, maintenance of cognitive function, and improved quality of life. The key is personalisation and ongoing monitoring to ensure that hormone levels are optimised and any potential risks are minimised. Our M Plan provides comprehensive support throughout your menopause journey, with regular reviews and adjustments to ensure your treatment remains effective and appropriate for your changing needs.

Estrogen

The decline in estrogen levels during menopause is what ultimately ends a woman's ability to produce eggs in the ovaries, but it can also impact various aspects of health, including bone health, heart health, and vaginal health. It also leads to weight gain, particularly around the stomach area. Some foods contain phytoestrogens, which when eaten in high enough quantities can balance hormone levels naturally. Phytoestrogens are present in soy products and flaxseeds and can mimic the effects of estrogen in the body, however some scientists question the effectiveness of phytoestrogens.

Oestrogen is often thought of primarily as a reproductive hormone, but its effects extend throughout virtually every system in the body. This hormone influences brain function, cardiovascular health, bone density, skin quality, urinary tract health, and metabolic function. The dramatic decline in oestrogen during menopause is responsible for many of the symptoms women experience, including hot flushes, night sweats, vaginal dryness, mood changes, sleep disturbances, and cognitive changes. Beyond these immediate symptoms, oestrogen deficiency increases the risk of several serious health conditions, including osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and potentially cognitive decline and dementia in later life.

Oestrogen replacement therapy, when appropriately prescribed and monitored, can effectively alleviate menopausal symptoms and provide protection against some of the long-term health risks associated with oestrogen deficiency. Modern HRT offers various forms of oestrogen delivery, including tablets, patches, gels, and creams, allowing treatment to be tailored to individual preferences and needs. The type of oestrogen, dosage, and delivery method are all factors that should be carefully considered based on your individual health profile, symptoms, and risk factors. At Bodyline, our experienced clinicians work with you to find the most appropriate oestrogen therapy for your needs, with ongoing monitoring to ensure optimal results and safety.

Progesterone

This hormone is produced in the ovaries and controls the uterine lining during menstruation, but also aids in blood pressure regulation and sleep cycles. A lack of progesterone can lead to symptoms like irritability, blood pressure issues, low mood, migraines, and weight gain around the stomach. Progesterone HRT can mitigate these symptoms and make the menopause a remarkably better experience.

Progesterone plays a crucial role in hormone balance and is essential for women who still have their uterus and are taking oestrogen replacement therapy. Oestrogen stimulates the growth of the uterine lining, and without the balancing effect of progesterone, this can lead to endometrial hyperplasia (excessive thickening of the uterine lining) and increase the risk of endometrial cancer. This is why women with a uterus taking HRT are prescribed a combination of oestrogen and progesterone (or a synthetic progestogen), whilst women who have had a hysterectomy typically take oestrogen alone.

Beyond its protective role for the uterus, progesterone has several other important functions in the body. It has calming effects on the nervous system, promoting relaxation and sleep. Many women find that progesterone helps improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and stabilise mood. Progesterone also has mild diuretic properties, helping to reduce water retention and bloating, which many menopausal women experience. The form of progesterone used in HRT matters, as different types have different effects and risk profiles. Micronised progesterone, which is bioidentical to the progesterone produced by the body, is generally preferred as it appears to have a more favourable safety profile compared to some synthetic progestogens. At Bodyline, we carefully consider which type of progesterone is most appropriate for each individual patient based on their symptoms, health history, and personal preferences.

Testosterone

Testosterone is a sex hormone and an anabolic steroid. Although it is typically considered a male hormone, women also produce testosterone, just in smaller amounts. Testosterone levels in women are at their highest during adolescence and early adulthood, but decrease as they age. As a result, menopausal women can experience symptoms including a decreased sense of well-being, a loss of vital energy and reduced sexual libido. The benefits of testosterone include an increase in libido, energy, muscle mass, and bone density. It has also been shown to improve memory and can boost self-confidence. The personalised HRT prescription may include testosterone.

Testosterone is produced in women's ovaries and adrenal glands, and whilst levels are much lower than in men, this hormone plays important roles in female physiology. Testosterone contributes to sexual desire, energy levels, muscle strength, bone density, and overall sense of wellbeing. During menopause, testosterone levels decline, though this decline actually begins in a woman's 30s and continues gradually throughout life. Some women experience more significant drops in testosterone than others, leading to symptoms such as reduced libido, fatigue, decreased motivation, loss of muscle mass, and reduced bone density.

Testosterone replacement therapy for women is less common than oestrogen and progesterone replacement, but it can be highly beneficial for women experiencing symptoms of testosterone deficiency, particularly low libido that doesn't improve with oestrogen therapy alone. Research has shown that testosterone therapy can significantly improve sexual desire, arousal, and satisfaction in postmenopausal women. Beyond sexual function, testosterone may help improve energy levels, mood, cognitive function, and physical strength. Testosterone also contributes to bone health, working alongside oestrogen to maintain bone density and reduce fracture risk. At Bodyline, we assess testosterone levels as part of our comprehensive hormone testing and can include testosterone in your personalised HRT prescription if appropriate for your individual needs and symptoms.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)

Dehydroepiandrosterone or DHEA for short, is a hormone produced in the adrenal gland, and aids in the production of female sex hormones in the ovaries. As woman age beyond early twenties, levels of DHEA gradually decrease, with around half lost in women by the age of 45. In turn, this will lower levels of oestrogen or testosterone and impact sleep, libido, and mental health. Supplementing DHEA when levels are low can improve many symptoms related to menopause, including mood, immunity, and libido. Enhanced DHEA levels can also have anti-aging properties and can protect against diabetes.

DHEA is often referred to as the "mother hormone" because it serves as a precursor to other hormones, including oestrogen and testosterone. The body converts DHEA into these sex hormones as needed, making it an important component of hormonal balance. DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline steadily with age, with most people having only about 10-20% of their peak levels by age 70-80. This decline in DHEA contributes to various age-related changes, including decreased muscle mass, reduced bone density, cognitive changes, and immune system decline.

For menopausal women, DHEA supplementation can offer several potential benefits. Research suggests that DHEA may help improve mood, reduce depression and anxiety, enhance cognitive function, increase energy levels, and improve sexual function. Some studies have found that DHEA supplementation can improve vaginal health and reduce symptoms of vaginal atrophy, a common and often distressing problem for postmenopausal women. DHEA may also support bone health, though more research is needed to confirm this benefit. Additionally, DHEA has immune-modulating effects that may help maintain immune function as we age.

It's important to note that DHEA supplementation should be undertaken with professional guidance, as inappropriate dosing can lead to side effects such as acne, hair loss, or changes in cholesterol levels. At Bodyline, we measure DHEA levels as part of our comprehensive hormone assessment and can recommend appropriate supplementation if your levels are low and your symptoms suggest you might benefit from DHEA therapy. We monitor levels regularly to ensure dosing remains appropriate and effective whilst minimising any potential side effects.

How Do I Know Which Supplements to Take During the Menopause?

With so many products marketed for menopause, knowing what you actually need can feel confusing. Start by discussing your symptoms, diet, medical history and any existing medicines or supplements with a qualified healthcare professional.

You do not automatically need every supplement listed in this article. Recommendations should reflect your individual needs, with tests considered where there is a clinical reason to investigate a possible deficiency or another cause of your symptoms.

Blood tests are not routinely needed to identify menopause in otherwise healthy women aged 45 or over with typical symptoms. A discussion about symptoms and changes to your periods is usually the starting point.

HRT is a medical treatment rather than a dietary supplement. Herbal products also need careful consideration: evidence for their effectiveness and safety is limited, and some can interact with prescribed medicines. A pharmacist or clinician can help you check whether a product is suitable.

Menopause Support with Bodyline Clinic

At Bodyline Clinic, we understand that you want clear advice about the changes you are experiencing. Our team can discuss your symptoms, review your health history and explain the care options available to you.

To find out more about our menopause services, contact Bodyline Clinic and speak to our team about your next steps.