Menopause is the time that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle.
It is a natural phase in a woman’s life marked by significant hormonal changes.
During this time, the body can experience several changes that may lead to the development of Menopause symptoms.
Such symptoms may include fatigue, joint pain, night sweats, hot flashes, and mood swings.
Although the symptoms of Menopause are quite common, the uncommon ones can often disrupt one’s life.
In such cases, probiotics may help relieve these symptoms or reduce their severity.
This article will explore the benefits of probiotics for Menopause and how to choose the best probiotics.
How Probiotics Help Menopause
Menopause is the time when your ovaries stop releasing eggs and your period comes to an end.
During menopause, the body may undergo several changes, leading to symptoms like fatigue, infections, and mood swings.
The symptoms of Menopause can cause distress and discomfort that may interfere with your daily life.
Over time, several Menopause treatments, including probiotics, have emerged to manage its symptoms
Probiotics refer to live bacteria and yeast known for having several health benefits.
One such benefit of probiotics is relieving Menopausal symptoms or reducing their severity.
Taking probiotics may support the digestive system, mental health, and weight loss.
They may also reduce the risk of frequent infections and Osteoporosis related fractures.
Reduce Vaginal Infections
Estrogen helps maintain the vaginal pH level by supporting the colonization of healthy bacteria like Lactobacilli, which may reduce the risk of vaginal infections.
Declining Estrogen levels may increase the vaginal pH level and raise the risk of vaginal infections.
Using probiotics may help reduce vaginal infections and related symptoms.
Bone Health
There is a gradual decline in Estrogen levels as a woman approaches Menopause. Declining Estrogen levels can contribute to the development of Osteoporosis.
Research suggests that 1 in 3 women over the age of 50 are at risk of Osteoporosis-induced fractures.
Incorporating probiotic supplements for Menopause may help increase bone mineral density (BMD) in the lumbar spine in postmenopausal people.
Managing Digestive Issues
Women in the stages of Menopause, like perimenopause and postmenopause, have a high prevalence of disturbed bowel function and gastrointestinal issues like bloating.
Probiotics can support a healthy gut environment that may improve bowel function and reduce bloating.
Mood and Mental Well-being
Source: pixelshotThe gut and the brain communicate through the endocrine, nervous, and immune systems. The bacteria present in your gut can also affect your mood.
A review suggests that probiotic or combined prebiotic-probiotic therapy may improve symptoms related to Depression.
Weight Loss
Declining Estrogen levels and ovarian function can contribute to Menopause-related weight gain.
Lack of exercise and a diet high in sugar, salt, and fat can also contribute to weight gain.
A review of studies suggests that short-term probiotic supplementation may help slightly reduce weight.
How to Choose the Best Probiotics for Menopause
While probiotics may help relieve Menopause symptoms, it is essential to choose the right one.
You may need to consider the following factors while choosing the best probiotics for Menopause. Such factors may include:
Strain Specificity
Look for probiotic supplements that contain strains known for their benefits in addressing Menopausal symptoms, such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium species.
CFU Count
The colony-forming units (CFUs) indicate the number of viable microorganisms in a probiotic supplement. Opt for products with sufficient CFUs to ensure effectiveness.
Prebiotics
Prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that nourish and support the growth of beneficial bacteria. Choose probiotic supplements that also contain prebiotics for optimal results.
While several studies have found that probiotics are helpful in the management of menopausal symptoms, further research is needed on their efficacy.
For this reason, doctors may suggest taking Menopause medications like Clonidine Hcl and Estradiol to manage the symptoms effectively.
Conclusion
Menopause is a natural phase in a woman’s life marked by several changes in the body and the end of her period.
During this time, several symptoms, including weight gain, mood swings, and a higher risk of infections and fractures, may emerge.
Among several treatments for Menopause, probiotics have evolved as a potential therapy for effective management of its symptoms.
Scientific evidence suggests that probiotic therapy may support bone health, the digestive system, and mental health.
They may also help with weight loss and reduce the risk of vaginal infections.
Your healthcare provider may help you select suitable probiotics for Menopause by considering factors like CFU count, strain specialty, and prebiotic component.
While probiotic therapy is helpful in the management of Menopause symptoms, further research is needed.
For this reason, your doctor may suggest taking medications for Menopause symptoms management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any side effects of taking probiotics during Menopause?
No, generally, probiotics are safe for most people during Menopause, but some individuals may experience mild digestive discomfort initially. Consult your doctor if concerns arise.
How long does it take to see results from probiotics during Menopause?
Individual results may vary during Menopause, but noticeable improvements in digestive health may occur within a few weeks.
Can probiotics replace hormone therapy during Menopause?
No, probiotics are not a substitute for hormone therapy for managing Menopause symptoms. Consult with your healthcare provider to explore appropriate options.
Are fermented foods sufficient for obtaining probiotics during Menopause?
While fermented foods are beneficial during Menopause, they may not provide an adequate quantity of diverse probiotic strains.
Supplements may offer targeted support for better management of Menopause symptoms.
Is it safe to take probiotics if I have lactose intolerance during Menopause?
Yes, probiotics are generally well-tolerated during Menopause, even for those with lactose intolerance, as most probiotics do not contain significant amounts of lactose.
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