Postmenopause occurs after a woman has missed 12 menstrual cycles consecutively. Due to the hormonal changes that take place in this stage, women go through many bodily changes. These changes may warrant the use of multivitamins to assist in maintaining overall health. The best multivitamin for postmenopausal women should contain calcium, vitamin D, iron and antioxidants.
Women's Complete Multivitamins
Although many of the vitamins and minerals you need are obtained through food, it may become necessary to take a multivitamin supplements. Multivitamins contain vitamin A, B-complex vitamins, C, D, E and K as well as essential minerals such as calcium and iron. Complete multivitamins keep the body healthy and help to prevent future health problems.
Calcium Needs
Between the ages of 45 and 55, women go through hormonal change that brings about menopause. During menopause, several changes take place in the body, which include thinning of the bones. During this time, women may need more calcium than usual because the depletion of estrogen causes the bones to become thin, coupled with the bones' natural deterioration due to aging. Chose a multivitamin that contains at least 1,200 mg of calcium, which is the recommended daily intake for women over 50, according to Harvard Health Publications.
Iron Needs
If you have iron-deficiency anemia, your physician may suggest that you take an iron supplement in addition to a multivitamin. During postmenopause, some women may experience abnormal uterine bleeding, which may contribute to this form of anemia. Healthy adult women should obtain at least 18 mg of iron per day; however, your physician may suggest that you take a multivitamin that contains more than this amount, if you have iron-deficiency anemia.
Considerations
Look for vitamins formulated for women, rather than using general over-the-counter complete multivitamins. If you're over the age of 50 it may become necessary to take a multivitamin formulated for seniors. You may also find multivitamins that are made specifically for menopausal women. Do not take multivitamins if you're taking medications without consulting your physician first.
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