Many popular menopause supplements, marketed to alleviate symptoms like hot flashes and brain fog, may be ineffective and could pose health risks, according to a new study from University College London (UCL) researchers.
The analysis of over 200 menopause supplements from nine major retailers found that roughly half of the products do not contain nutrients proven to support menopausal health, such as vitamin D and calcium. Instead, many contain botanical ingredients, some of which may have adverse effects when consumed in excess or over time.
Researchers flagged the potential for toxic effects, including vomiting, confusion, and liver damage, from certain ingredients. For instance, excessive vitamin D intake can theoretically lead to high calcium levels, causing adverse effects. The herb black cohosh, often included in supplements for night sweats, is known to carry a potential risk of liver toxicity.
"Some nutrients can have adverse effects when consumed in excess over time," said Poppy Sullivan, co-author of the research and menopause expert at UCL. "Certain botanical ingredients in some menopause supplements may also have risks."
The study suggests that consumers are caught in a "menopause gold rush," spending significant amounts on products that lack scientific evidence of efficacy. Professor Joyce Harper, lead author of the study and an expert in women's health, noted that the market is growing rapidly despite limited research substantiating the claims made for many of these products. She added that social media influencers often promote these supplements, contributing to misinformation.
The global market for menopause supplements is substantial, and experts caution that without better research and stricter regulations, women may be spending considerable sums on ineffective products.
The British Menopause Society recommends a daily 10mcg or 400IU vitamin D supplement for menopausal women, and adequate calcium intake is vital for preventing osteoporosis, a common post-menopausal condition, according to the International Menopause Society. However, the UCL investigation found that only half of the analyzed products contained vitamin D, and less than a quarter included calcium.
The cost of these supplements varies widely, with monthly prices ranging from £1.50 to £95. Experts suggest that for many women, a balanced diet might provide necessary vitamins and minerals, and general multivitamins or herbal products not specifically branded for menopause could offer cheaper alternatives.
Menopause typically occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, marking the cessation of a woman's periods due to lower hormone levels. Approximately 13 million women in the UK are estimated to be perimenopausal or menopausal. Common symptoms include hot flashes, difficulty sleeping, brain fog, and mood changes. While Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) is a first-line treatment, some women seek supplements for additional symptom management.
Researchers are calling for more high-quality research, including clinical trials, to determine which ingredients in menopause supplements are both effective and safe for women going through this life stage. Dr. Anne-Marie Boylan, an expert in qualitative health research at the University of Oxford, suggested that for symptoms affecting quality of life, seeking medical advice remains the best option, though some women may hesitate to consult healthcare professionals.