Long Read

What is Menopause?

menopause

Menopause is a crucial stage in any woman’s life, and it is important to understand the signs and symptoms whilst learning how to manage it. Read this blog for a quick guide on menopause including what it is, the symptoms and nutrition to help support your symptoms of the menopause.  

What is menopause?  

Menopause is the stage that marks the end of a menstrual cycle. It is often associated with symptoms and signs including hot flushes, period changes and mood swings. Menopause commonly affects women between the ages of 45-55 but can sometimes happen earlier or later. 

What are the signs and symptoms of menopause?  

Due to the changes in hormone levels, menopause is associated with a variety of signs and symptoms including:  

  • Changes to your period:  

The changes in hormone levels can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, which leads to infrequent and irregular periods, until they stop all together.  

  • Mood swings and mental health symptoms:  

Also associated with menopause and the changes in hormone levels, many people experience mood swings and mental health symptoms whilst menopausing, including low mood, low self-esteem and brain fog or memory problems.  

  • Hot Flushes: 

This occurs when you have sudden feelings of hot or cold in your face or neck, which can lead to dizziness.  

  • Reduced sex drive  
  • Muscle aches and joint pains  
  • Difficulty losing weight and bloating 

Nutrition and the menopause:  

Menopause is often associated with nutrient deficiencies including calcium, magnesium, zinc and vitamin D. It is important to consume foods rich in nutrients and minerals to avoid any deficiency related symptoms and to help ease physical symptoms.  

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Possible treatments for the menopause:  

1.Hormone replacement therapy (HRT):  

Hormone replacement therapy involves using oestrogen to replace your body’s own levels around the time of the menopause. If you have a uterus, you will also need to take progesterone to replace your uterus’ lining from the effects of oestrogen.  

2. Non-hormone medicines:  

These include non-hormonal medications prescribed by your GP if you cannot, or choose not to have HRT.  

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*Please consult a GP if you have a medical condition and are looking to change your diet. This blog is not intended to diagnose or treat any medical conditions.  

Source: NHS UK, 2022  



Lujain Alhassan

Lujain Alhassan

Writer and expert

Lujain is a Registered Nutritionist (ANutr) with a BSc in Nutrition from the University of Leeds. With a keen interest in Diabetes and performance nutrition, Lujain works closely with our team and medical partners as our in-house nutritionist and nutrition coordinator.