Menopause is a life change that all women go through at some point in their lives. Women reach menopause naturally or because of certain medical treatments. No matter how you arrive at menopause, most women encounter various symptoms along the way. These symptoms can make the menopause journey challenging and uncomfortable. However, some vitamins and minerals relieve menopause symptoms while simultaneously improving your overall health and wellbeing. Here’s an in-depth look at using vitamin E for menopause symptom relief.

What is vitamin E?

Vitamin E is a group of fat-soluble compounds that have antioxidant effects in the body. Antioxidants are compounds that fight free radicals inside your body. More specifically, they inhibit the process of oxidation, which is a chemical reaction that produces free radicals. The reason antioxidants are powerful is because they stop free radicals from damaging your cells and cellular processes that are necessary for optimal functioning. Free radicals are implicated in health conditions like cardiovascular disease and cancer. Currently, there is much research investigating whether vitamin E can delay or prevent these chronic diseases.

Along with fighting free radicals, vitamin E also reduces inflammation, which places significant stress on the body. Chronic stress can lead to physical and mental health conditions like depression, weight gain, and cardiovascular disease.  

What is vitamin E good for menopause symptoms? 

Women in menopause experience several symptoms caused by low estrogen. These symptoms may improve by increasing your vitamin E intake. For example, vitamin E may help:

• Depression
• Curb weight gain
• Improve fatigue
• Dry skin
• Hormonal acne

In an older small study vitamin E supplementation improved hot flashes. 

Low estrogen is not only linked to a slew of menopausal symptoms, but it also may be correlated with an increased risk of heart disease. Interestingly, women are at greater risk for high blood pressure after menopause compared to men of the same age. Studies suggested that vitamin E increases blood vessel size, which lowers your risk for blood clots and hypertension.

So, is vitamin E good for menopause? It sure is! 

Where can you get vitamin E?

Vitamin E is naturally found in many foods. For example, foods with vitamin E include:

• Nuts
• Seeds
• Green leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli
• Fortified cereals, fruit juices, and some dairy products
• Vegetable oils like soybean, corn, sunflower, and wheat germ oil

Vitamin E is also available as a supplement. Some people take oral supplements whereas others take vitamin E for menopause in an oil. Often, vitamin E is found in menopause supplements designed to treat several menopause symptoms with numerous herbs, vitamins, and minerals. If you struggle with skin challenges like hormonal acne or dry skin, you may want to consider a product that has vitamin E added either in a serum or moisturizer.  

Maximizing vitamin E absorption

Vitamin E is absorbed better when it is taken in combination with vitamin C. Indeed, both vitamin C and E work well together to optimize the same systems in your body. For example, both vitamins boost your immune system by decreasing inflammation and preventing infections. Also, these vitamins together add moisture to your skin and fight free radicals caused by sun exposure. Finally, when taken in combination, vitamin C and E act as a powerhouse against free radicals as they are both antioxidants. 

The final word on vitamin E for menopause

Vitamin E is an essential nutrient that we need throughout life. However, making sure you are getting enough vitamin E during menopause can improve menopause symptoms and ward off some health conditions. However, vitamin E may not be a cure-all for all of your symptoms. If you are struggling with menopause symptoms, certainly make sure you are optimizing your essential nutrients by eating a healthy diet or taking supplements. But most importantly, check in with your doctor to see what recommendations are best for you in managing your menopause symptoms and preventing chronic health conditions down the road.

Disclaimer: This is not medical advice, does not take the place of medical advice from your physician, and is not intended to treat or cure any disease. Patients should see a qualified medical provider for assessment and treatment.