What phytoestrogens do?

Around 82% of perimenopausal women suffer sleep disturbance and

More than 50% experience brain fog, joint pain along with other symptoms.

30% of the female population is peri or post-menopausal.

Here’s a link to the podcast explaining this in more detail

A phytoestrogen is a naturally occurring plant compound that mimics the effects of oestrogen, the primary female sex hormone, in the body. Phytoestrogens work by having a similar structure to oestrogen and can therefore bind to oestrogen receptors.

Where do phytoestrogens come from?

Phytoestrogens are in various foods, such as soy, flaxseeds, lentils, and red clover. They are added to supplements to help manage symptoms of menopause, like hot flushes and night sweats, by providing a mild estrogenic effect, which can be beneficial when the body’s natural oestrogen levels decline during this stage of life.

Menotune is the capsule we have been making for many years, and contains both red clover and Chaste tree Berry.

What impacts the effectiveness of a supplement?

Here’s the thing: the outcome you experience using supplements will be as individual as your DNA. It’s as personal as your fingerprint.

That, when combined with the factors outlined in this article will create a unique response in each woman, meaning that a supplement that works well for one woman may not be as effective for another.

The effectiveness of phytoestrogens for managing menopause symptoms varies from woman to woman, according to the differences in gut microbiome diversity, genetics, diet, and overall health. Some women’s gut bacteria can convert phytoestrogens into more potent forms, offering better relief, while others may see less impact. Factors like hormonal balance, lifestyle, and absorption rates also play a role. To get the most out of phytoestrogen supplements, focus on maintaining a healthy gut and balanced diet, and consider your unique body chemistry.

· Gut Microbiome: The gut bacteria play a crucial role in breaking down and activating certain compounds in supplements, like phytoestrogens. Some women have gut bacteria that are more efficient at this, leading to better symptom relief, while others may not.

· Genetics: Genetic differences can affect how a woman's body metabolizes and responds to the ingredients in supplements. This includes how well her body can use phytoestrogens or other active compounds.

· Hormonal Levels: Each woman’s hormone levels during menopause can vary. Women with different baseline oestrogen levels or those on hormone replacement therapy may respond differently to supplements.

· Diet and Lifestyle: What you eat and how you live can impact the effectiveness of supplements. A diet rich in certain nutrients or a healthy lifestyle can support the body’s ability to use the supplements effectively.

How to get the best from a supplement

To get the most out of phytoestrogen supplements it is wise to focus on maintaining a healthy gut and balanced diet, and consider your unique body chemistry.

The effectiveness of phytoestrogens in managing menopause symptoms can vary significantly from one person to another due to several factors:

· Gut Microbiome Diversity

· As mentioned earlier, the gut microbiome plays a key role in metabolizing phytoestrogens. The diversity and composition of gut bacteria vary widely between individuals, influenced by diet, lifestyle, genetics, and antibiotic use. Some women have gut bacteria that can efficiently convert phytoestrogens into more potent forms like equol, which can lead to better symptom relief. Others may have less effective gut microbiomes, resulting in reduced benefits from phytoestrogen supplements.

· Genetic Factors

· Genetics also play a role in how your body responds to phytoestrogens. Some women may naturally produce more or less of certain enzymes that are involved in the metabolism of phytoestrogens, affecting their overall efficacy. Genetic variations can also influence hormone receptors, altering how the body responds to these plant compounds.

· Dietary Habits

· The regular diet impacts both the gut microbiome and the intake of phytoestrogens. Women who regularly consume foods high in phytoestrogens, such as soy, flaxseeds, and legumes, might already have a higher baseline of these compounds in their system, potentially enhancing the effects of supplements. Conversely, women with lower dietary phytoestrogen intake may experience different results.

· Hormonal Balance

· Each woman’s hormonal balance during menopause is unique. Women with different levels of natural oestrogen may find that phytoestrogens work differently for them. For some, phytoestrogens may complement their natural or supplemented hormone levels, while for others, the effects might be less noticeable. (we do not advocate taking phytoestrogen supplements with HRT)

· Overall Health and Lifestyle

· Other health conditions, stress levels, and lifestyle choices like smoking, alcohol consumption, and exercise can influence how well phytoestrogens work. For instance, chronic stress or poor diet can disrupt the gut microbiome and reduce the effectiveness of phytoestrogens. Additionally, underlying health issues can alter hormone metabolism and responsiveness to supplements.

· Absorption and Bioavailability

· Individual differences in digestion and absorption can also affect how much of the phytoestrogen is available to the body. Factors like stomach acid levels, digestive enzyme activity, and the presence of other nutrients in the diet can all impact how well phytoestrogens are absorbed and utilised.

Conclusion

Due to these factors, the response to phytoestrogen supplements can be highly individualised. Understanding your own body, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and possibly consulting with a healthcare provider can help optimize the benefits of phytoestrogens during menopause.

This article is not intended as medical advice. Please consult your practitioner for personal support and help.

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