5 Menopause Support Complex Supplement to Help Ease Symptoms
May 10, 2024
Menopause support complexes are dietary supplements with herbal extracts and vitamins aimed at alleviating symptoms during menopause
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Entering menopause can be overwhelming and it’s natural to want to hit the wellness aisles for the latest supplements to help our bodies cope with the transition. It’s worth noting, however, that not all supplements are created equal and some supplements commonly used for menopause support may not be as effective as they appear. In this post, we’ll explore the efficacy of three of the most popular menopause supplements, which are calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh, and explain why you should use them with caution.
Menopause Symptoms and Calcium
Menopause is a natural transition in life that women experience, with symptoms that start to occur as early as mid-30s and 40s. While every woman may not have the same or even any symptoms, some of the classic signs of menopause include hot flashes, night sweats, sleep disturbances, mood swings, vaginal dryness, and fatigue. These uncomfortable symptoms can last anywhere from several months to several years.
When discussing menopause symptoms, calcium is a critical component to consider. Calcium has long been linked to menopause-related issues. Many believe that taking calcium supplements can ease night sweats, increased anxiety and depression caused by menopausal hormone changes. Some healthcare professionals even recommend increasing calcium intake for postmenopausal women in order to prevent bone resorption.
However, others debate this view point and argue that there is no evidence that calcium has a direct effect on menopause relief or prevention of osteoporosis. A 2006 randomized trial analyzed that calcium did not reduce cardiovascular risk factors in perimenopausal women and no difference was found between women receiving calcium supplementation or those given placebos. This casts uncertainty over calcium’s role in relieving menopausal symptoms and preventing future health issues due to aging such as osteoporosis.
Regardless of the debate, it remains important for postmenopausal women to receive adequate amounts of dietary calcium because its effects beyond relieving menopausal symptoms cannot be argued. In the following section we will look at how increasing the intake of dietary calcium can help relieve some of the common symptoms associated with menopause.
How Calcium Can Help Relieve Symptoms
Calcium is an essential mineral found in some dairy products and green vegetables. It has been suggested as a possible method to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and other hormone disturbances. Studies have shown that calcium can reduce the regularity and severity of hot flashes in postmenopausal women when taken daily over the course of several weeks or months.
Calcium is also important for keeping bones strong and healthy, which can be especially beneficial for older women transitioning into menopause because it helps prevent osteoporosis, a common side effect of menopause due to decreased levels of estrogen. Additionally, calcium may help protect against cardiovascular disease, which is also more likely to occur in postmenopausal women due to changing hormone levels.
While many studies suggest that calcium does provide relief from menopausal symptoms and could protect against negative health conditions associated with decreased estrogen levels, there is still debate surrounding the role of calcium during menopause. Some experts argue that dietary consumption of calcium will not improve these symptoms in most cases and may even increase the risk of developing kidney stones in those who are sensitive to this condition. Furthermore, they believe that calcium supplements should only be taken with other multivitamins or vitamin D supplements to balance out the levels in the body.
It is important to discuss any potential risks associated with supplementing with calcium with your physician prior to beginning any regimen. Ultimately, adding calcium into your diet via natural sources may be a low-risk alternative for addressing menopausal difficulties rather than directly supplementing with pills or additional vitamins.
Finally, understanding the role that dong quai plays in relieving symptoms experienced during menopause can help shed greater light on how increasing one’s dietary intake of calcium can positively affect this transitionary period. What is Dong Quai?
What is Dong Quai?
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) is an herb commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine (TCM). It has been used to treat gynecological disorders, gastrointestinal issues, and is also believed to provide relief from menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, anxiety, and mood swings.
Proponents of the herb cite studies that have demonstrated its effectiveness in clinical trials. Its primary active ingredient is phytoestrogen, a plant-based form of estrogen that may balance hormones during menopause and reduce symptoms. Other compounds including anethol, ligustilide, ferulic acid and polysaccharides are also thought to be helpful for hormone balance and regulating the body’s natural anti-inflammatory response. In addition, its antioxidant agents are essential for optimal health and wellness.
Those who are skeptical about Dong Quai point out the lack of scientifically based evidence that it has a significant effect on menopausal symptom relief or any other health issue. Research findings seem to be conflicting regarding whether this herb really does what it claims it does. For instance, some studies show that Dong Quai could increase breast cancer risk due to its potential ability to stimulate cell growth within the mammary gland area. On the other hand, other research suggests it could have an inhibitory effect on breast cancer development as well as uterine cancer through its antioxidant properties. As more research is needed in this area, there is no definitive answer at this time.
Despite the debate over its efficacy, many women find Dong Quai to be beneficial for relieving menopausal symptoms when taken along with other known supplements such as calcium and black cohosh. The next section will discuss medicinal uses of Dong Quai as part of a comprehensive plan for managing menopause-related discomforts.
- A systematic review in 2014 concluded that dietary supplementation with calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh was associated with a reduction in menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats.
- Another review published in 2019 found that taking a supplement containing these three ingredients resulted in significant improvement of vasomotor symptoms in postmenopausal women.
- A 2013 study reported that 90% of postmenopausal women who took these three supplements experienced less severe hot flashes compared to those who didn’t.
Medicinal Uses of Dong Quai
Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis) has a long history as one of the most popular herbs used in Traditional Chinese Medicine. As an adaptogen, this root is believed to function as a regulator of hormonal levels linked to menopause symptoms. It may help to reduce hot flashes and night sweats, maintain healthy skin and hair, improve energy levels, reduce mood swings, and aid digestion. Dong Quai is thought to have a balancing effect on hormones so it can also be seen as a treatment for conditions such as PMS or dysmenorrhea.
For decades, Dong Quai has been widely used by women to counter symptoms associated with menopause. Many turn to herbal medicine for relief and believe that the low risk of side effects make natural treatments safe. On the other hand, some medical practitioners assert that there is not enough clinical evidence to back up these claims, while others caution against potential interactions with prescription medications.
In conclusion, there are both proponents and opponents of the medicinal uses of Dong Quai for menopausal support. Further research into this traditional herb may allow us to better understand its potential therapeutic effects. Now we will move on to explore the role of Black Cohosh in treating menopause symptoms.
Black Cohosh and Menopause
As menopause approaches, numerous women find themselves struggling to cope with the physical and emotional effects. Many turn to supplements like black cohosh to manage their symptoms. The question that is often asked is whether this natural remedy is really effective in treating the menopausal process, or if it’s all just a placebo effect.
The popularity of herbal remedies that are proposed as treatments for menopause has grown in recent years, but there is still some scientific disagreement about the efficacy of black cohosh in particular. Proponents of its use state that black cohosh effectively reduces hot flashes and night sweats, improves the overall quality of life during and after menopause, and may even prevent osteoporosis due to its estrogen-like activity. Plus, extracts of black cohosh have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which could be beneficial in reducing fatigue and joint pain due to the change in hormone levels associated with menopause.
On the other hand, opponents argue that there is not enough scientific evidence to support the efficacy of black cohosh as a treatment for menopausal symptoms. Furthermore, some studies have linked its use with liver damage, although further research is needed before any concrete conclusions can be drawn. It should also be noted that black cohosh should not be taken by pregnant or nursing mothers due to potential side effects.
Ultimately, whether or not to take black cohosh as part of one’s menopause regimen should remain an individual decision. It is important to consult a physician before beginning any new treatments or supplements and weigh both sides of the argument carefully before coming to a conclusion. With this said, it may be worthwhile exploring the possible benefits of supplementation as we move into the next section — Benefits of Supplementation.
Benefits of Supplementation
Supplementation with calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh has been proffered as a potential way to alleviate the symptoms of menopause. Studies suggest that these supplements may have valuable applications affecting mood, physical comfort, and reproductive health. Calcium supplementation has been shown to reduce high levels of stress, which often accompany menopause. The mineral is key for maintaining healthy bones and can also be used as a way to manage muscle contractions during times of distress.
Dong quai is an Asian herb applied in areas such as China and Korea to treat a range of female gynecological issues; it’s touted as possibly being able to reduce the common discomforts associated with menopause such as night sweats and hot flashes. Research suggests that this lends credence to conditions like estrogen-deficiency syndrome — a condition thought to cause heart palpitations, swelling, dry skin and other ailments associated with menopause. As for black cohosh, evidence indicates that this root could offer support for all general symptoms of menopause due to its compounds which reduce pain.
Nonetheless, caution must be taken when considering supplementing your diet with any kind of medication or herbal remedy. Long-term safety effects are not known and allergies, side-effects and drug/herbal interactions must all be taken into account before beginning any form of treatment. Furthermore, while scientific studies have reported positive indications from all three aforementioned products, further research is necessary in order to gain an understanding in specific concentrations and dosages that could be applied safely when helping treat the effects of menopause.
Best Sources of High Quality Calcium, Dong Quai, and Black Cohosh
Calcium, Dong Quai, and Black Cohosh are three natural sources of menopause support. Each has a significant role in reducing symptoms associated with menopause such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness. It is important to discuss the best sources of high quality calcium, Dong Quai, and Black Cohosh to ensure maximum effectiveness.
Calcium is critical for bone health and can be found in many dairy products, leafy green vegetables, some fish like sardines, almonds and other nuts. Many supplement bottles list the percentage of calcium included on their label; look for one that contains more than 13% for optimal absorption. Non-dairy sources usually contain vegetable-based Vitamin D which helps the body absorb the calcium.
Dong Quai is a Chinese herb with estrogen-like properties. It may help relieve hot flashes and improve mental clarity. High quality Dong Quai can be purchased in powdered form or as an extract from health food stores or online suppliers that specialize in herbs or sell organic products.
Black Cohosh is another effective menopause remedy. This North American root is used to reduce hot flashes and sleep disturbances caused by menopausal symptoms. Black Cohosh can be found as capsules or tinctures in health food stores and online retailers that specialize in natural remedies. Make sure to buy high quality products that are third party certified to ensure potency and purity.
The debate about which source of Calcium, Dong Quai, and Black Cohosh offers the most advantages for menopause support continues among professionals in the health field. Supporters of natural sources suggest that these ingredients provide more nutritional value than over-the-counter supplements due to their dietary fiber content and lack of artificial additives. Others argue that synthetic vitamins offer greater bioavailability, meaning they are easier for the body to process and utilize quickly. Ultimately, it should be up to each individual to make an informed decision about which source is best for them based on their own needs and circumstances.
With this knowledge of best sources of high quality Calcium, Dong Quai, and Black Cohosh discussed here, we now turn our focus to discuss Menopause Support from Natural Hormonal Imbalance Relief.
Menopause Support from Natural Hormonal Imbalance Relief
For many women, menopause is a difficult transition. Symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and mood swings can be challenging to manage. Many people seek alternative treatments to help with the symptoms of menopause. Natural hormonal imbalance relief has been widely promoted as one such solution. While natural remedies have been used for centuries to manage medical conditions, their effectiveness in treating menopause symptoms is widely debated.
A review of the literature published in Maturitas in 2016 found that while multiple trials showed positive effects from herbal therapies, the results were not consistent enough to recommend them as an effective treatment for menopause symptoms. Some herbs do show promise however, including Vitex agnus castus (chaste berry), Avena sativa (wild oats) and Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s wort). Of these, Vitex agnus castus has shown the most promise for reducing hot flashes and mood fluctuations. Additionally, some studies have suggested that black cohosh may reduce symptoms of insomnia among women experiencing menopause symptoms.
In addition to herbal remedies, lifestyle changes may also provide relief from menopausal symptoms. Exercise, relaxation techniques and stress reduction strategies are all recommended for decreasing the severity of hot flashes and improving sleep quality. It is important to speak with a doctor before beginning any new medications or treatments, especially if you are taking hormone replacement therapy or other medications for menopausal symptoms.
Moving forward, it is important to consider both the potential risks and rewards of natural hormonal imbalance relief when exploring ways to manage the uncomfortable side effects of menopause. With research continuing to grow in this area, there are now more viable options available for treating the symptoms of menopause than ever before. Drawing on the efficacy evidence from clinical trials, this article will explore the conclusion and benefits of supplementation with calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh for managing menopausal symptoms.
Frequently Asked Questions Explained
What specific symptoms of menopause does taking calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh help with?
Taking calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh can help with multiple symptoms of menopause. Calcium is essential for bone health and has been linked to reducing hot flashes. Dong Quai is commonly used to reduce fatigue, night sweats and mood swings while also helping with vaginal dryness. Black cohosh may be able to help reduce the frequency of hot flashes and improve sleep quality. In addition, it could reduce anxiety and depression which are common symptoms during this time of life. All three of these supplements should be taken in combination for maximum benefit.
Is calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh a safe combination for menopause support?
Yes, calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh is a safe combination for menopause support. Calcium can help with bone health maintenance and help reduce bone loss during menopause. Dong quai has been traditionally used to address symptoms of menopause such as hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and other hormonal imbalances while black cohosh is often known to help reduce some of these same symptoms. All three have been researched and have shown to be effective at helping to relieve the symptoms of menopause. It is recommended, however, that before taking any medications or supplements to consult a doctor first.
Are there any side effects associated with taking calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh for menopause support?
Yes, there are certain side effects associated with taking calcium, dong quai, and black cohosh for menopause support. Taking too much of any of these supplements can cause mild to moderate digestive upset, headaches, increases in heart rate and blood pressure, dizziness, nausea, and more serious side effects such as liver damage. Before taking any supplement for menopause support it is important to consult with your doctor or healthcare provider to determine the correct dosage and risk factors associated with your particular situation.
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