A recent study conducted by researchers at University College London (UCL) has raised concerns about the growing market for menopause supplements, highlighting significant inconsistencies in their ingredients, dosages, and overall efficacy. The analysis examined over 200 products from nine major retailers and found wide variation in vitamin and mineral content, with many supplements lacking key nutrients essential for managing menopausal symptoms effectively.

The researchers reported that no single ingredient appeared consistently across all tested products, and many contained doses of vitamins and minerals that may exceed recommended levels, potentially leading to adverse effects. Notably, only about half of the supplements included vitamin D, a nutrient important for bone health after menopause, while fewer than a quarter contained calcium. These findings contrast with guidance from major health organizations such as the British Menopause Society, which emphasize the importance of these nutrients for post-menopausal women.

Several of the supplements also contained botanical ingredients like black cohosh and red clover. These are often promoted for their supposed ability to mimic estrogen and alleviate symptoms such as hot flushes. However, some botanicals, including black cohosh, are associated with risks such as liver toxicity and related side effects, including jaundice and fatigue.

The study’s authors described the current market surge as a “menopause gold rush,” with companies increasingly targeting mid-life women. Professor Joyce Harper of UCL’s EGA Institute for Women’s Health noted that despite the rapid expansion of this sector, there is limited scientific evidence supporting many of the products’ claims. Co-author Poppy Sullivan, affiliated with UCL and Queen Mary University of London, further emphasized that the majority of active and inactive ingredients found in these supplements are not specifically recommended by major menopause organizations.

Experts also expressed concerns about the role of social media influencers in promoting these products despite the lack of robust evidence, potentially contributing to misinformation. Some specialists highlighted that many components found in menopause-specific supplements are also available in general multivitamins, which are often more affordable.

Given these findings, medical professionals advise that women experiencing menopausal symptoms seek personalized medical guidance rather than relying solely on supplements. Dr. Anne-Marie Boylan of Oxford University underscored that professional advice remains the best approach for managing symptoms that affect quality of life, especially since hormone replacement therapy continues to be the first-line treatment recommended by healthcare providers.

The study's findings come at a time when approximately 13 million women in the UK are perimenopausal or menopausal, mostly aged 45 and over, facing common symptoms such as hot flushes, sleep difficulties, mood changes, and cognitive challenges. As interest in menopause-related health products grows, these insights highlight the need for increased regulation and clearer information to help consumers make informed decisions.