Nutritional Deficiencies

Menopause is often a time when nutritional deficiencies become even more pronounced. Years of wear and tear, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, dieting and living life in our fast-paced stressful world can all challenge our nutrient stores and low levels of nutrients have both negative impacts on both our brain chemistry and hormone function.

UNICEF’s 2023 Report: Identified 1 billion+ women affected by undernutrition, with acute malnutrition rising 25% since 2020

Early studies we involved with at the Women’s Nutritional Advisory Service in the UK found that women with PMS often had low levels of important nutrients including the mineral magnesium, which was the most common deficiency. Other nutrients including B vitamins, zinc, iron and essential fatty acids were also often in short supply. More recent research now shows that around one billion women have nutritional deficiencies

More recent research shows confirms that women have serious Nutritional Challenges in both perimenopause and post-menopause.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2021 showed that pre-menopausal women 31- 44, as well as perimenopausal and postmenopausal women had intakes from food significantly below the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) for calcium, magnesium, vitamins A, C, E and E. And, in the case of vitamin D it was up to 97% below the EAR. The study conclusion stated that Specific guidance is needed to ensure adequate nutrient intakes and nutrient status during these critical life stages.

The N-HRP focuses on teaching women how to detect nutritional deficiencies and in our community you will have access to tools to help you correct them in an enjoyable way. You can learn how to detect and correct nutritional deficiencies by using our Nutritional Assessment Guide.