Menopause occurs in a woman's life when there is an absence of menstrual periods for one year. Women entering their menopausal years may be confused as to which vitamins they should take daily. Some vitamins can prevent or limit the development of illnesses during this time in a woman's life. Women should consult their physicians prior to taking any vitamins, as certain vitamins can have dangerous interactions with some medications.
Calcium
Calcium is an important vitamin for women of all ages. It is especially important following menopause as the body's natural decline in estrogen makes the bones more susceptible to osteoporosis. Calcium is best known for the building and maintenance of strong bones and healthy teeth. According to the National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements, calcium is also required for muscle contraction, blood vessel expansion and contraction, secretion of hormones and enzymes, and transmitting impulses throughout the nervous system. The recommended daily intake for calcium is about 1,200 mg per day. Foods that are rich in natural calcium include dairy products, green vegetables such as broccoli or kale, and fortified fruit juices.
Vitamin D
Vitamin D is an important vitamin to take during menopause. Vitamin D boasts an interdependent relationship with calcium, as it works to help the body absorb and utilize calcium. Your body can synthesize vitamin D from the sun, or you can obtain vitamin D from foods or supplementation. According to the Cleveland Clinic, women over age 50 should ingest at least 1,000 to 2,000 IU. Foods which contain vitamin D include eggs, fatty fish and fortified milk and cereals.
Vitamin K
Consuming vitamin K during menopause may help decrease bone loss. According to Menopause A to Z, taken in supplement form or from foods such as asparagus, dark green lettuce, turnip greens, broccoli and green tea, vitamin K is highly beneficial. However, women who take the anti-coagulant medication Coumadin should not take vitamin K supplements or eat foods which contain a high amount of vitamin K as they may alter the effectiveness of their medication.
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