Which Dietary Supplements Work Best With Bioidentical HRT?

While menopause is not a disease, the changes it brings can produce hormonal imbalance. Many doctors prescribe creams, gels, pills, patches or rings made from substances found in soy, yams or the herb fenugreek. The use of these substances, which have similar molecular structure to naturally occurring hormones, is called bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Dietary substances also can alleviate symptoms, improve mood and lessen the risk of heart disease.

Antioxidants

• Coenzyme Q10 and Coenzyme A are antioxidants produced by the body to protect the heart. Levels of these important substances fall as a result of aging. Taking these antioxidants can increase energy, ease depression and fatigue, improve the processing of fats and boost your immune system.

  Vitamin E, 800 IU once a day, improves your blood vessel health.

Essential Fatty Acids

• Essential fatty acids reduce irritability by promoting relaxation, support estrogen production to relieve hot flashes, and have a diuretic effect that eliminates excess fluid in body tissues. Standard diets contain too much Omega 6 fatty acids and not enough of the Omega 3 type. Flax oil in particular has been found to alleviate hot flashes. Evening primrose oil, hemp oil or fish oil supplements may also help. Purchase fish oils that state they are free of mercury and other pollutants.

Herbs

• Black cohosh and Dong Quai (Angelica) may relieve vaginal dryness, depression and hot flashes. They are plant estrogens, so consult a physician or naturopathic doctor before adding these herbs to bioidentical HRT. Valerian root is calming and promotes sleep.