New research shows that for 67% of women, HRT is not the best course of action during menopause, and they feel left behind in the conversation. A new survey found that over a quarter of women aged 45-55 are unable to take HRT and a further 39% don’t wish to use it.
This can be for a number of reasons, the main one being that nearly a third of those surveyed do not wish to use medical treatments. For those who did opt for HRT, one in ten realised it was not the right option for them within the first 1-2 months.
Two thirds of women do not feel there is enough awareness and education focused on alternative and natural options to help them manage their symptoms and nearly three quarters (71%) did not feel represented in the conversation during Menopause Awareness Month. Lack of information is the biggest barrier to women getting the right help and support they need.
Two thirds of women are not aware that diet and lifestyle can impact menopause symptoms and only 4% of people are advised on this by their GP.
The findings follow the launch of a new book, The Menopause Journal, written by Viridian Nutritionist and menopause expert, Aimée Benbow which aims to support women in identifying and understanding their symptoms so they can prepare for appointments with medical professionals and get the solutions they need. The book guides women on the best foods to support the body when oestrogen reduces and highlights how supplements such as red clover, hops and sage can help.
Dr Siobhan Brennan, an NHS GP has written a foreword for the journal and believes there is a clear correlation between diet and wellbeing “The most supportive management includes self-care, being mindful of our emotions, investing in what we eat and when we eat as well as consideration of the benefits of complementary therapies and supplements.”
To help women seeking natural options, Viridian has launched Menopause Complex, a plant-based combination of botanical extracts to support menopause symptoms. Formulated by Viridian’s nutritionists it includes hops, lemon balm, saffron and sage.
Aimée said: “Whilst HRT has an important role to play in supporting and enabling some women to manage what can be debilitating effects of the menopause, for too many others, there is limited knowledge on what alternative options are available. The good news is that there are a number of approaches out there and independent health stores are a great place to start. Advisors there are nutritionally trained and with a wealth of knowledge can help women find what works for them.
“HRT is the most discussed treatment option by GPs but there are many alternatives and diet is one of the fundamental aspects that can make a noticeable difference. In launching The Menopause Journal, I wanted to take away some of the mystery, and help women thrive during and after menopause.”
An extract of The Menopause Journal is available to download at https://www.viridian-nutrition.com/Menopause. Copies are available from independent health stores.
