Menopause marks the end of menstruation and fertility and is a natural occurrence in a woman's life. Symptoms include night sweats, irregular periods, hot flashes, insomnia, cold hands and feet, vaginal dryness and mood changes. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, post-menopausal women are at risk for various health conditions, including osteoporosis, heart disease and colon cancer. Consuming certain vitamins may be helpful in relieving and controlling some symptoms of menopause. Consult your doctor before taking supplements, and never replace other forms of treatment with supplements.
Vitamin D
Menopausal and postmenopausal women are at increased risk for osteoporosis, a condition in which the bones weaken and you are more susceptible to falls and fractures. Calcium is important to help form and maintain healthy bones, and your body requires vitamin D to absorb calcium. Your levels of vitamin D can decrease with age, and you should consult your doctor about whether a supplement might help you. You can naturally obtain vitamin D from the sunlight, fatty fish and fortified low-fat dairy. According to UMMC, women of menopausal age, 50 to 70, should consume 400 IU of vitamin D per day.
Vitamin E
Vitamin E may play a role in relieving hot flashes that many women may experience during menopause. However, MayoClinic.com cautions that research has not shown a clear benefit. More studies are required to confirm an association between hot flashes and vitamin E. Consuming higher than 400 IU of vitamin E supplements per day may not be safe. Naturally boost your intake of this vitamin by consuming foods such as avocado, vegetable oils, nuts, nut butters and spinach.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant that can help protect your body from free-radical damage. Free radicals are harmful bacteria and viral agents that can cause cellular damage, infection and illness in your body. Consuming vitamin C may help strengthen your body's ability to combat the symptoms of menopause. Menopause Canada suggests that taking vitamin C may assist in maintaining a healthy body and relieving symptoms of menopause. Consult your doctor about taking a supplement and an effective dose. You can also find this vitamin in foods such as oranges, limes, lemons, grapefruits, kiwis, strawberries, broccoli and bell peppers.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is also an antioxidant, and Menopause Canada says that this vitamin can help in maintaining a healthy body and may assist in relieving symptoms of menopause. Consult your doctor about supplements. You can naturally find this vitamin in foods such as liver, milk, eggs, cheese, carrots, sweet potatoes, squash and pumpkin.
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