Menopause
Micronutrients are important for women during peri- and postmenopause
Women’s health requires special attention at all stages of life. Sound information about pregnancy, menstruation and menopause helps women improve their health, enhance their well-being and prevent illness. Women’s health, once underrepresented, is receiving increasing public attention.
A new generation of women
Peri- and postmenopause are among the most challenging times in a woman’s life. The body undergoes major changes, which are accompanied by various physical and mental symptoms. Within the last years a new generation of women has emerged who are active, open, well-informed and no longer prepared to keep quiet about this life phase.
For a long time menopause was a taboo subject and hot flushes, sleep disorders or cycle problems were topics of discussion only among those affected – but not for the public. That is now a thing of the past.
The different stages of peri-, post- and menopause
Perimenopause: The female body in transition
Estrogen plays a vital role in many metabolic pathways. For instance, it inhibits inflammation of neurons and glial cells, and controls memory. It is cardioprotective and prevents osteoporosis. Perimenopause is associated with a marked decrease in ovarian estrogen production, which leads to symptoms and an increased risk of diseases. Women may suffer from hot flashes, sleep problems, mood changes and memory problems, and are at higher risk for cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, depression, immune disfunction and osteoporosis, among others.
Micronutrients - the foundation of women's health
An adequate supply of micronutrients plays an important role in overall well-being during the peri- and postmenopausal periods. However, studies show that women’s intake of some vitamins and minerals is not optimal, even in Europe. For example, Vitamin D, iron and iodine are considered critical micronutrients for women.
The following vitamins and minerals are relevant during peri- and postmenopause:
| Ingredients | Function |
|---|---|
| Vitamin D, K2, calcium | Build and maintain adequate bone density |
| B-vitamins | Support mental well-being and cognitive performance, reduce tiredness and fatigue |
| B-vitamins, Vitamins C, D, E, zinc, selenium | Have immunomodulatory effects, assist in antibody production and act as free-radical scavengers |
| Vitamin B6 | Regulate hormonal activity |
| Vitamins B1, K2, D, magnesium, calcium | Support cardiovascular health |
| Chromium | Important for normal blood sugar levels |
| Vitamin D, calcium | Support a healthy gut microbiome |
More studies on the impact of micronutrients and functional ingredients on the health of peri- and postmenopausal women are needed, and will certainly be carried out in the coming years.
New market opportunity for the food, beverage, and supplement industry
In general, more studies on the impact of micronutrients and functional ingredients on health
of peri- and postmenopausal women are needed and will certainly be carried out in the
coming years.
This offers the food, beverage and supplement industry the opportunity to develop products customized to the needs of women during this stage. Micronutrients and other functional ingredients give products added value and offer the opportunity to promote certain health goals through health claims.