Is Omega-3 Good for Menopause?

There is no single solution to manage all menopausal symptoms. But dietary and lifestyle changes can reduce the intensity of the transition.

One nutrient that has garnered attention for its potential benefits is omega-3 fatty acids. In this blog post, we will explore whether omega-3 is indeed good for menopause relief.

Menopause and Inflammation

Recent research indicates that the transition to menopause can cause inflammation in the body.

Inflammation is known to worsen common symptoms of menopause, such as weight gain and joint pain. Furthermore, inflammation can increase the risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Inflammation

Omega-3s work by reducing the production of these pro-inflammatory molecules, thus helping to decrease inflammation. They also inhibit the activation of enzymes involved in the production of other inflammatory compounds.

Omega-3 and Menopausal Symptoms

Research specifically targeting menopause and omega-3 fatty acids is limited. However, several studies have suggested potential benefits for women experiencing menopausal symptoms.

Joint Health

Menopause Brain Fog

Menopause has been associated with cognitive changes, such as memory lapses and reduced mental performance.

The term cognitive performance refers to how well the brain works. It’s about how we think, remember things, solve problems, and make decisions.

When our cognitive performance is good, we can pay attention easily, remember things better, understand things quickly, and solve problems effectively.

Omega-3 fatty acids — particularly DHA — play a crucial role in brain health and have been linked to improved cognitive function. Including omega-3 in the diet may help support brain health during this transitional phase.

Improve Mood

Omega-3 fatty acids also can have a positive impact on your mood. 

It is unclear how omega-3s impact mood. However, it’s known that including them in your diet is beneficial for your mental health.

Weight Gain

Inflammation, gaining weight, and obesity form a vicious cycle. This makes it challenging to lose weight when going through menopause.

Chronic inflammation can impact the hormone leptin. This hormone signals to the brain when you should eat or stop eating. Inflammation can also cause insulin resistance, which leads to weight gain and makes weight loss more difficult.

By reducing inflammation, omega-3 can stop this cycle.

Adding Omega-3 to the Diet

To ensure an adequate intake of omega-3 fatty acids, consider the following dietary options.

Fatty Fish

Cold-water fish like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout are excellent natural sources of EPA and DHA.

Flax Seeds and Chia Seeds

These seeds are rich in ALA, which can be converted to EPA and DHA in the body to some extent.

Walnuts

Walnuts are a plant-based source of omega-3, providing ALA as well as other beneficial nutrients.

Supplements

If you find it difficult to get sufficient fatty acids through your diet, omega-3 supplements can help. Supplements are especially important when omega-3 fatty acids are used to treat disease.

It’s interesting to note that supplements from marine sources are more effective than plant-based ones.

The Bottom Line

There are more than enough studies to suggest that adding omega-3 to your diet may have positive effects on health. But further research is needed to establish conclusive evidence regarding the specific benefits of omega-3 fatty acids for menopause.

Eating certain omega-3 sources, like fatty fish, flax seeds, and chia seeds, can help improve joint health. They may also help manage menopausal symptoms, such as brain fog, mood swings, and weight gain. Supplements can be a great way to ensure you are getting adequate EPA and DHA.

Keep in mind that it’s always important to talk to your healthcare provider about taking supplements.