Menopause

Menopause is the time in a woman's life when the ovaries stop producing an egg cell each month and menstruation ceases. This usually occurs between the ages of 45-55. Whilst some women get through menopause with minimal fuss, there are many others who experience uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, irritability, headaches, mood changes and decreased libido. These are caused by the hormonal changes and fluctuations that occur in the menopausal phase.

Phytoestrogens (or plant oestrogens) are present in some plants and may help to relieve menopausal symptoms. These are found in soy beans and flaxseeds and herbs such as red clover, sage and black cohosh.

Women's calcium requirements also increase after menopause. This is because there is a reduction in oestrogen, which usually has a protective effect on the bones. It is important for menopausal women to increase calcium intake from the diet and/or via supplementation.