Menopause and Cholesterol: Plant-based supplements research
Menopause isn’t just about hot flushes and night sweats - it’s also a time when cardiovascular risk begins to rise. That’s why new research into natural ways to support heart health during this stage of life is so important.
A recent meta-analysis published in Maturitas reviewed 60 clinical trials with over 6,000 participants, all focused on one question: Can plant-derived supplements improve blood lipid profiles in menopausal women? [1]
Here’s what they found.
A Closer Look at the Study
This was a comprehensive systematic review and meta-analysis, meaning it pooled together data from many individual trials for a clearer overall picture. The researchers:
- Included 60 randomised controlled trials with a total of 6,127 menopausal women
- Analysed the impact of various plant-derived supplements on cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Assessed the quality of each trial using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool
- Focused especially on studies lasting 3 to 12 months
Key Results
Women who took plant-derived supplements experienced statistically significant improvements in their lipid profiles. That included:
- Lower total cholesterol
- Reduced triglycerides
- Lower LDL (bad) cholesterol
Subgroup analysis revealed that:
- Phytoestrogens, particularly from soy, were especially effective
- The best results were seen in postmenopausal women
- Supplements taken for at least 3 months were more beneficial
However, variations in formulation, dosing, and study quality did limit how specific the conclusions could be.
What This Means for You
If you’re in or beyond perimenopause and thinking about heart health, here’s what to consider:
- Soy is your friend: Supplements containing soy isoflavones or phytoestrogens may support lipid levels.
- Timing matters: The benefits were clearer in women further into menopause.
- Consistency counts: Effects were most noticeable when supplements were taken for 3–12 months.
This review adds to a growing body of evidence suggesting that plant-based supplements, especially soy-based phytoestrogens, can offer gentle but meaningful support for cholesterol management in menopause. Combined with diet, cholesterol balancing herbs like Artichoke, gentle movement, and other lifestyle shifts, they could become a helpful part of a heart-healthy plan tailored during and post menopause.
Reference:
[1] https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/ptr.8511?af=R
