Do I need a prescription in order to take health supplements?

No, you do not need a prescription to take health supplements as they are not considered drugs. However, you should always consult your doctor before using any supplement because some of them may have unwanted side effects or interfere with other prescription or over-the-counter medications or supplements you're already taking. Asking your doctor before taking a supplement is especially crucial if you're expecting or breastfeeding, going through surgery, have a medical condition like high blood pressure, heart disease, or diabetes, or are pregnant or nursing. Additionally, never give children below the age of 16 a supplement without first consulting their doctor.

What health supplements are best for overall health?

Studies show that the five best health supplements to include in your diet for overall health are folic acid, vitamin B12, magnesium, vitamin D, and fish oil.

Why should I buy health supplements from NutriLife?

Carefully formulated in Singapore, NutriLife’s health supplements were established in 2014 with an aim to improve the quality of life for the entire family through high quality, natural health care products and health supplements. Joint care and joint pain relief products, beauty and skincare supplements, gut health and probiotics supplements, daily vitamins, and even weight reduction supplements are some of our main product categories. From children to ageing loved ones, there is something for everyone at NutriLife. NutriLife’s health supplements are manufactured in Europe and the US under strict quality controls.

What to Know About Menopause Joint Pain

October 23, 2024

Menopause can bring about changes in a woman’s body, with one of the lesser-known yet disruptive symptoms being joint pain, often referred to as menopausal arthralgia. According to The Straits Times, over 60% of 1,054 Singaporean women reported experiencing joint pain during menopause. And for many women, this menopausal transition can cause discomfort in the knees, hips, shoulders, and even hands.

Given how common and disruptive this pain can be, understanding its causes and exploring different management strategies can help you maintain comfort and quality of life throughout the menopausal journey.

Causes of Menopause Joint Pain

These are some of the reasons why some women experience joint pain during menopause:

1. Hormonal Fluctuations

Oestrogen is a hormone that helps maintain joint health, and it declines significantly during menopause. Oestrogen has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to regulate the body's inflammatory response and protect the joints. When oestrogen levels drop, the risk of inflammation symptoms flaring up increases, resulting in pain and stiffness in the joints. This is why many women first notice joint discomfort as they approach or enter menopause.

2. Ageing

Ageing naturally increases the risk of degenerative joint conditions such as osteoarthritis. As we age, the cartilage that cushions joints starts to deteriorate, leading to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. Age-related degeneration combined with the hormonal changes of menopause can often exacerbate joint discomfort for women in their 40s and 50s.

3. Weight Gain

Another common issue during menopause is weight gain, and it directly impacts joint health. Extra weight can increase the stress on weight-bearing joints like the knees, which can exacerbate joint pain. Additionally, weight gain can increase inflammation in the body, further contributing to discomfort.

4. Decreased Muscle Mass

Sarcopenia, or the loss of muscle mass, tends to accelerate during menopause. This reduction in muscle mass affects joint support, making joints more susceptible to injury and pain. Muscles provide the necessary strength and stability for the joints, and when they weaken, joints are left more vulnerable.

5. Inflammatory Conditions

Hormonal changes associated with menopause could also contribute to the development or worsening of inflammatory conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. Although rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition, the hormonal imbalance during menopause may trigger flare-ups, leading to joint inflammation and pain.

6. Bone Density Changes

A decline in oestrogen levels can also negatively affect bone density. That's why menopausal women are at a higher risk of osteoporosis, which is a condition where bones turn brittle and become more prone to fractures. Changes in bone density can also lead to joint pain, as weaker bones struggle to provide adequate support to the body.

7. Physical Activity and Lifestyle Factors

Both a sedentary lifestyle and overexertion can contribute to menopause-related joint pain. For instance, lack of exercise can cause stiffness, while overexertion can strain the joints, worsening pain. Women experiencing menopause need to find a balanced approach to physical activity, as the right amount can improve joint flexibility and reduce pain.

Managing Menopause Joint Pain

To address joint pain symptoms, there are a few healthcare options, lifestyle adjustments, and remedies to consider:

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is a common option for addressing menopause symptoms, including joint pain. HRT works by replenishing oestrogen levels in the body, helping to manage inflammation and promote joint health. While HRT can help with menopausal joint pain, you should ask advice from a healthcare professional before starting this therapy, as it may carry risks for certain individuals.

Stay Active

Regular physical activity is crucial in managing joint pain during menopause. Some suitable exercises that can help improve joint health include:

Low-impact aerobics: Swimming, cycling, and walking are excellent for maintaining joint flexibility without putting too much stress on the joints.
Strength training: Building muscle strength can support joint stability, minimising the risk of pain symptoms and promoting mobility.
Yoga and stretching: These activities can improve flexibility, reduce stiffness, and promote better joint function.

Eat a Nutritious Diet

A well-balanced diet can help manage inflammation symptoms and support joint health. Some foods that are particularly beneficial for managing menopause joint pain include:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Found in salmon and flaxseeds, omega-3s help minimise the risk of inflammation and improve joint health.
Fruits and vegetables: Fruits and vegetables that are rich in antioxidants help with inflammation and provide essential vitamins and minerals.
Whole grains: Quinoa, brown rice, and oats are high in fibre and can help regulate weight and address inflammation.
Soy products: Soy isoflavones may help mimic oestrogen in the body, which means it could help manage menopausal symptoms.

Foods to avoid include:

Saturated and trans fats: These are mainly found in processed foods and are known to increase the risk of inflammation.
Sugar and refined flour: These can cause weight gain and exacerbate inflammation.
Alcohol and caffeine: Both can contribute to dehydration and potentially worsen joint pain.

Supplements

Several supplements in Singapore have been shown to help with joint pain during menopause. Some potentially helpful options include:

Glucosamine and chondroitin: These joint caresupplements help support cartilage health and may help address joint stiffness and pain.
Curcumin: A compound found in turmeric, curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties that can aid with joint pain.
Collagen: Collagen supplements can help support joint cartilage and manage discomfort symptoms.

But before you start taking any type of supplements or vitamins for menopause joint pain, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional to know what would be the right ones for your condition.

Manage Menopause Joint Pain the Right Way

Joint pain from menopause can be challenging, and while, in some cases, it may not go away completely, it can still be manageable. Knowing the causes and implementing the appropriate strategies to manage pain symptoms can help women take proactive steps to care for their joints during this stage of life. However, to determine the appropriate lifestyle adjustment and health option that accommodates your condition and needs, you should always seek help from a healthcare professional.