Kefir and Menopause
Menopause is the time of life when your hormones decide to throw a wild party, and it can feel like you’re not even invited. Suddenly, it’s hot flashes, sleepless nights, mood swings, and wondering if you can actually survive another day without snapping at someone. Many women find this stage challenging, both physically and mentally. There are lots of dietary strategies to support women during this time, such as sharpening up your diet and supporting your gut. This is where kefir comes in. Yes, the tangy fermented drink you’ve probably seen in the dairy aisle
could be just the thing to help support your health during this time - and it’s all thanks to the friendly lactic acid bacteria it contains.
What’s so special about lactic acid bacteria?
Lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are the real heroes in kefir. They’re known for helping with gut health, boosting your immune system, and improving how well your body absorbs nutrients. But what’s even more interesting is that they could also help women going through menopause.
Vaginal Health
As oestrogen levels dip, so does the balance of bacteria in the vaginal microbiota, which can lead to dryness and irritation. LAB, however, can help maintain that balance by helping to keep those vaginal bugs in check.
Supporting strong bones
Menopause isn’t just about hot flushes - there’s also the issue of bone health. Oestrogen decline can lead to bone loss, increasing the risk of osteoporosis. LAB may help boost calcium absorption and improve bone metabolism, making kefir a tasty way of keeping your bones strong and healthy as you age.
Mood swings and anxiety
We’ve all been there—the mood swings, the anxiety, the moments when the minor thing can send you spiralling. Studies suggest these probiotics can influence the gut-brain connection, helping to regulate mood and reduce stress. LAB supports the gut microbiome, which in turn may help calm those menopausal nerves.
How to increase LAB?
Getting more LAB in your life is as easy as pouring yourself a glass of kefir. It’s packed with probiotics and other good bacteria, and it’s surprisingly simple to work into your routine. Drink it on its own, throw it in a smoothie, or even add it to recipes—you’ve got plenty of options to make it part of your day.
Other ways kefir can support health and longevity:
Boosts immunity: menopause can weaken your immune system, but the probiotics in kefir may help strengthen it, keeping you healthier in the long run.
Supports digestive health: menopause can cause bloating and general discomfort. Kefir can work wonders for balanced gut health and promote better nutrient absorption. Fights Inflammation: kefir is packed with antioxidants and other bioactive compounds, which help reduce inflammation, a common issue as we age.
We’re only just scratching the surface when understanding how probiotics like LAB can help during menopause. However, the research we have is encouraging, and more and more women are turning to natural solutions like kefir to support their health with or without HRT. By improving gut health, maintaining vaginal balance, supporting bone strength, and even calming the mind, LAB is shaping up to be an essential part of a healthy menopause.
What’s not to love about kefir?
Blog post written by Charlotte Hunter, The Menopause Nutritionist.
To see more of Charlottes work visit her website: https://charlottehunternutrition.co.uk/ or find her on instagram @menopausenutritionist