Perimenopause is a time of discomfort and pain. Many options are available to reduce unwanted symptoms or adapt to this new stage of life. Some of the best supplements for perimenopause are natural and can lower your chance of developing conditions related to menopause. Be sure to talk to your doctor about any changes you make to your current routine to get PMS relief, including adding new supplements and medications.
Why do You Need Perimenopause Supplementation?
When you are approaching menopause, your ovaries produce a decreasing amount of progesterone and estrogen. The two hormones have a crucial role to play in the regulation of your menstrual period and other bodily processes.
Random and unpredictable symptoms can occur during the perimenopause due to hormonal fluctuations.
1. Phytoestrogens
The phytoestrogens in plants have estrogenic properties. Some studies have claimed that they can reduce hot flashes and prevent osteoporosis. They also claim to treat acne and improve cardiovascular health. The research has not been conclusive on whether they can help with other perimenopausal symptomatologies.
It is important to note that phytoestrogens have some adverse effects. Studies link excessive soybean consumption with altered ovarian functioning and possibly certain types of cancer.
2. Calcium
The perimenopause and a decrease in hormonal levels can also be attributed to the loss of bone density. This is made worse by insufficient calcium intake and bone resorption, which occurs when the body transfers calcium from bones into the blood. Sadly, osteoporosis is often undiagnosed and goes undetected until a sudden fracture.
This is why women between 31 and 50 should have 1200 mg of calcium daily. The daily calcium requirement for individuals over 50 is between 1200 and 1500 mg.
3. Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
DHEA can be purchased as a supplement. It is produced naturally by your adrenals. Research has linked low DHEA concentrations in menopausal women with increased cardiovascular diseases, osteoporosis, and decreased libido.
DHEA is not widely used as a supplement to treat perimenopause due to its side effects.
4. Vitamin D
Vitamin D is one of the best natural supplements during perimenopause. This supplement is proven to help with heart disease and other conditions such as osteoporosis. It also helps fight depression, anxiety, diabetes, hypertension, depression, and certain types of cancer.
While maintaining a menopause-friendly diet, it can be challenging to get enough vitamin D. You can choose to take a vitamin D daily supplement, or you can increase sun exposure. Most calcium supplements also include vitamin D, crucial to calcium absorption.
5. Bioidentical Hormones
Pharmacists can customize bioidentical supplements to suit your individual needs. They are structurally similar to the hormones made by your body.
There isn’t any evidence to support using these supplements as an alternative to conventional HRT. The HRT hormones are safer than custom-made preparations since they are produced under strict regulations and standards.
6. Vitamin E
Vitamin E can reduce the intensity and frequency of hot flashes in perimenopausal women. Vitamin E’s antioxidant properties can also help reduce the risk of depression, heart disease, weight gain, and stress. Increase your vitamin E intake by eating nuts, seeds, and wheat germ. Also, eat broccoli, spinach, or shellfish. Many multivitamins available on the current market contain enough vitamin E to meet the daily recommended allowance.
