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Menopause & Weight Loss Supplements

Menopause can bring many things into a woman's life. Besides relief from monthly periods she can also experience nausea, hot flashes, insomnia and even weight gain. While it's a common phenomena for women in menopause to gain weight, there's no universal reason as to why. Changes in hormones and a shifting metabolism could contribute to weight gain. Women can fight some of these symptoms. Women who are peri-menopausal or have already entered menopause may choose to use weight loss supplements to ward off the extra pounds.

  1. Black Cohosh

    • Black cohosh has been a favorite supplement prescribed by herbalists for menopause symptoms including weight gain. This North American herb tempers hormonal surges that often lead to compulsive over-eating. Black cohosh is harvested for the root and ground into a supplement. This supplement can be taken once a day with a meal to keep stomachs from being upset. Black cohosh is not regulated by the Food and Drug Administration so it's recommended that you buy this herb from reputable manufacturers. It is also recommended that this herb only be used for six months at a time and shouldn't be taken while using hormone replacement therapy. High doses of the herb can make you feel nauseous and cause vomiting.

    Calcium Supplements

    • In recent years calcium supplements have been credited with weight loss in menopausal women. Calcium helps women reverse weight gain, raise the metabolism and prevent the body from storing fat. According to the International Journal of Obesity and Related Metabolic Disorders, daily calcium supplements work more efficiently than weight loss drugs like Orlistat. This study shows that diets high in calcium show a loss of more than 24 pounds in 16 weeks. Addidtional benefits of taking calcium supplements include strengthening bones.

    Vitamin D

    • Vitamin D deficiency can cause numerous health care problems in women experiencing menopause. Besides heart disease and stroke risks, women who lack the appropriate amounts of vitamin D can gain weight faster. Vitamin D helps regulate blood sugar and mineral absorption in the blood. It will also boost energy and decreases fatigue in menopausal women. The recommended dosage is 2,000 IU every day. Ask your doctor to check your Vitamin D levels to determine if you need this supplement. Scientists don't yet fully understand how vitamin D works in the body nor the mechanisms that causes weight loss.

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