A study led by University College London (UCL) has found that supplements claiming to ease menopause symptoms lack key nutrients and show a “huge variation” in vitamin and mineral doses, which could cause side-effects when consumed long-term. Researchers examined the cost, doses and ingredients in menopause supplements across nine major retailers and online sellers, with 201 different products available to buy.
Half of supplements lack vitamin D
The analysis found no single common ingredient across all products. Half of those tested did not contain vitamin D, which helps protect bone health, and only 23.9% contained calcium. Most supplements contained herbs (80%), vitamins (77%) or phytooestrogens (74%), plant compounds with a chemical structure similar to human oestrogen. Vitamin B6 was the most common vitamin, while clover and sage were the most common herbs.
Prices ranged widely, from £1.50 to £95. Researchers also suggested some ingredients can have “adverse effects” over time. The study comes amid a growing “menopause gold rush” in the supplement industry, with social media influencers promoting products despite claims not being supported by scientific evidence, which can contribute to the spread of misinformation online.
Experts warn of long-term risks
Professor Joyce Harper, of the UCL EGA Institute for Women’s Health, said: “Menopause can cause symptoms that affect daily life. The menopause supplement market is growing rapidly, despite limited scientific evidence that many of these products improve menopause symptoms.”
Poppy Sullivan, also of UCL EGA Institute for Women’s Health and Queen Mary University of London, said: “The huge variation in vitamin and mineral doses is also a cause for concern. Some nutrients can have adverse effects when consumed in excess over time. For example, excessive vitamin D intake can theoretically lead to high calcium levels, which could cause adverse effects such as vomiting and confusion. Furthermore, certain botanical ingredients in some menopause supplements may also have risks. Black cohosh, in particular, is known to carry a potential risk of liver toxicity.”
Cheaper alternatives available
Experts said many ingredients in menopause supplements can also be found in herbal products and general multivitamins, which are often cheaper. Dr Anne-Marie Boylan of the University of Oxford said the findings, published in the journal Climacteric, highlight the importance of women having access to evidence-based information. “The British Menopause Society emphasises the importance of a healthy diet and regular physical activity,” she added. “For some women, ensuring a balanced diet may provide many of the vitamins and minerals found in menopause supplements.”
Dr Boylan noted that for symptoms affecting quality of life, the best option remains medical advice, though some women hesitate for fear of feeling dismissed by healthcare professionals.
