Why our Menopause Ultimate Calm Bundle is so good

MenoFriend^® contains a targeted blend of 19 ingredients, including 6 botanicals, non-soy phytoestrogens and Vitamin B6 to naturally regulate hormones. Menopausal signs present themselves as the levels of oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone decline at different speeds during menopause. The short-term imbalances that are created between the hormones as they decline exacerbate feelings and discomfort until the hormones find a new equilibrium and when your signs should subside. Therefore it’s important to regulate hormones as they naturally decline, so you can thrive during this natural phase. 

Red Clover Extract is a source of phytoestrogens, which are natural plant compounds with oestrogen-like properties. Isoflavones are a specific type of phytoestrogen that has been extensively researched for providing support from menopausal discomfort. The frequency of hot flushes is significantly reduced with the intake of isoflavones, without the side effects that can be experienced with conventional treatments such as HRT.

The root and bulb of Wild Yam have been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. Wild Yam Root contains ‘diosgenin’, a naturally active plant compound with phytoestrogenic and phytosteroid properties. The compounds are used to help women transition through a calm and comfortable menopause. Research shows that when Wild Yam is taken in combination with other botanicals, including Dong Quai, the blend of botanicals supports a reduction in the number and severity of menopausal signs, including hot flushes, mood changes, poor sleep and insomnia.^7-9

Sage Extract, which has been used for generations of menopausal women, owes its natural attributes to its abundance in polyphenols and particularly to ‘rosmarinic acid’, a very important active component of sage leaf. Research shows that Sage Extract can alleviate both the number of hot flushes and night sweats, among other signs. Studies also show Sage reduces the intensity of hot flushes by 50% within 4 weeks.

Hops contain one of the most potent phytoestrogens known, called ‘8-prenylnaringenin’ (8-PN). Some research indicates Hops is 8x more potent than other phytoestrogens, and it has been shown to be particularly beneficial during perimenopause.^12-13

Dong Quai, which is also known as the ‘female ginseng’, is one of the most famous herbal remedies in China. It provides a source of phytoestrogens which relieve vasomotor signs (hot flushes and night sweats), particularly when combined with other plants.^7,14

Mung Bean, regularly consumed in Asian countries and particularly by women as a remedy for menopause, is a type of legume with a long history of use in traditional medicine. Mung Bean contains an abundance of isoflavones, polyphenols and polysaccharides amongst many other active compounds. Rich in the protein ‘isolate 8 S globulin’, Mung Bean has been shown to play a role in regulating Insulin levels and glucose metabolism which can otherwise be negatively influenced by hormonal changes.

Full list of references.

Brain fog is the most common sign of menopause, affecting 80% of perimenopausal and menopausal women, and it is the most common issue that MenoFriend^® helps support. 

Hormonal changes affect our cognitive function and the ability to think clearly, make decisions and generally function well mentally. As a result, while supporting the changing hormonal levels, it is also important to assist cognitive function so you can thrive through your menopause journey.

Research shows that Sage supports cognitive function during the menopause, helping to maintain memory, reasoning, mental clarity and brain performance.

MenoFriend^® also contains optimal dosages of B vitamins in their most bio-available forms, including Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12. Vitamin B6 is vital for maintaining hormonal balance, while both Vitamin B6 and Vitamin B12 are vital for our cognitive function and energy through the menopause and beyond. MenoFriend^® also contains highly absorbable Vitamin B3 and Vitamin B5 which contribute to psychological function.

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Mental resilience and mood support

• Maca Root, which is a key ingredient in MenoFriend^®, is often referred to as a ‘hormone-balancing wonder’, and has traditionally been used for physical and mental health support, stamina and vitality. Research shows it helps reduce psychological signs, including depression and stress.^20-22
• Isoflavones from Red Clover Extract, phytoestrogens and Hops help support mood swings, reduce stress, and reduce restlessness and irritability. Hops are said to have a soothing effect on the nervous system by acting on GABA receptors in the brain. This, in turn, may support restorative sleep and generally, a calmer state of mind.^12,23
• Magnesium supports the nervous system and psychological wellbeing. Magnesium can help support women’s transition through the menopause because it plays a vital role in supporting a healthy, balanced stress response. Research has shown that a deficiency in magnesium induces anxiety and ‘HPA axis dysregulation’. Magnesium deficiency is much more common in women, particularly if taking a form of oestrogen replacement, like HRT, so It is important to correct the deficiency when entering perimenopause to minimise the potential worsening of menopausal signs.^26-27

Gut health and physical wellbeing

• Other areas of your wellbeing that need support during the menopause include your gut health, including IBS-related signs, bloating, vaginal signs and declining libido.
• The Dandelion Root has traditionally been used for liver support and is useful in women’s hormonal imbalances. Rich in Inulin, Polysaccharides, Potassium and Sesquiterpene Lactones, Dandelion Root provides a natural source of Prebiotics and Fibre. Research shows it exerts antioxidant properties, which contribute to gastrointestinal wellbeing.^30-33
• Dandelion has been shown to stimulate the growth of 14 strains of bifidobacteria in vitro and helps reduce the overgrowth of pathogenic (disease-causing) bacteria.
• The health of our gut microbiome is essential to our body’s production of hormones - learn more in ‘How menopause affects the gut microbiome’. The Dandelion Root and leaves are commonly used as ‘tonics’ for the gallbladder, and it is taken to support the body’s ability to eliminate the effects of pollution and toxins. As a result, Dandelion Root can play a role in reducing bloating, abdominal cramps and constipation through menopause.^34-36

Intimate wellbeing

• Vaginal discomfort: Vaginal dryness (vaginal atrophy, VA) and dyspareunia (pain during sex) are common signs that can be experienced during menopause, and MenoFriend^® is uniquely formulated to provide support from VA. Learn more in ‘What is vaginal atrophy’. 
• Vitamin D3 has been shown to keep signs of vaginal discomfort at bay. One study has shown oral Vitamin D supplementation for 12 weeks improved vaginal health outcomes in postmenopausal women with vulvovaginal atrophy signs.^38-40
• The vagina’s delicate inner lining is a mucous membrane and Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) within Menofriend^® contributes to the healthy lining of the mucus membranes. 

Libido

• Hot flushes and low libido are among the 10 most common signs of menopause, with more than 60% of women experiencing these signs.
• With its natural plant oestrogens, research has shown Dong Quai to help support libido in men and women. 

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Alleviating interrupted sleep by balancing hormonal levels and easing feelings of stress can also help reduce fatigue, all the while supporting optimal energy levels so you can thrive through your daily activities.

B vitamins including Riboflavin (B2), Niacin (B3), Pantothenic acid (B5) all contribute to a reduction in tiredness and fatigue. Kelp is a rich source of Iodine, a key nutrient for the production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function, as well as supporting energy levels. Selenium also contributes to normal thyroid function and protects against oxidative stress, and also provides support to the maintenance of healthy hair and nails.

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Musculoskeletal pain and arthralgia’s are more common in women; their frequency increases with age and is aggravated by the menopause. After the menopause, oestrogen concentrations decrease dramatically, triggering a greater risk of osteoporosis. MenoFriend^® includes levels of key ingredients to support your muscles and bones, however, taking a high-quality Bone & Muscle Support supplement alongside MenoFriend^® is also recommended when going through menopause. 

Calcium is needed for the maintenance of normal bones and teeth, as well as muscle function and neurotransmission.

Vitamin D contributes to the absorption of Calcium. Supplementing with Calcium and Vitamin D could prevent osteoporosis fractures in post-menopausal women.

Vitamin K2 and Vitamin D3 contribute to the maintenance of bones.

Magnesium provides normal muscle function support and evidence shows it may improve bone density and reduce bone loss in postmenopausal women while also improving cells’ sensitivity to hormones, which can help ease menopause signs.

In a clinical study, combining Red Clover Isoflavones with Probiotics attenuated the oestrogen-deficient bone mineral density loss and improved bone turnover, even in postmenopausal women with osteopenia.

Full list of references.

As women go through the menopause, the changes in hormones and body composition may put them at risk of conditions and medical conditions prone to cardiovascular risks, including obesity and diabetes mellitus.^51,52

Vitamins B6, B12 and Folate, in particular, play an important role in preventing the buildup of the harmful compound referred to as homocysteine, a cardiovascular risk factor.

Menofriend^® includes the Vitamins B6 and B12 in their methylated and biologically active forms for efficient absorption and utilisation by the body.

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Advanced adaptogenic formula

Stay Calm^® includes clinically studied plant extracts, including Ashwagandha KSM-66^®, Cordyceps, Rhodiola and Schisandra.⁹

Used for hundreds of years in traditional medicine for their ‘adaptogenic’ effects, these botanicals have been extensively studied for their support for the body’s adaptability and resistance to fatigue and stress. This process occurs through their action on the stress-hormone-producing adrenal glands and by modulating our nervous system.^9-11

Stay Calm^® includes Ashwagandha KSM-66^®, the most clinically trialled and world-wide acclaimed form of this wonder herb. Unlike standard ashwagandha supplements, Ashwagandha KSM-66^® is a full-spectrum extract obtained only from Ashwagandha’s root. The root is preferred to the leaves of the plans because it contains the highest concentration of the active compound called ‘withanolides’. The extraction process does not involve any chemicals, alcohol or solvents. Ashwagandha KSM-66^® is acclaimed for supporting mental wellbeing and the body’s coping mechanisms to stress, all while bringing a sense of calm.^13-16

Cordyceps is a rare and naturally occurring mushroom, traditionally used for mental and physical support, particularly when feeling run down.^17-19

Rhodiola is also commonly regarded as a ‘wonder-herb’, and is an adaptogen traditionally used for supporting stress-related fatigue while maintaining emotional balance.^21-22

Schisandra, also classified as an adaptogen, has traditionally been used for its positive influence on the body’s stress response. Schisandra has shown to support the menopause, from palpitations and stress to hot flushes, helping bring a sense of calmness to those going through such changes and feeling overwhelmed.^24-25

Full list of references. 

Stay Calm^® includes the amino acids L-theanine and L-tyrosine which are organic compounds in our body that form proteins. Amino acids are vital for the body to function properly.

L-theanine has been clinically shown to help the body relax, supporting a reduction in stress levels and an improvement in the quality of sleep.^26-27

L-tyrosine supports a balanced mood and can help improve both memory and physical performance in stressful situations.^26,31

Schisandra is also found to help bring balance to the body and mind.^24-25

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Stay Calm^® includes key nutrients and botanicals to support the nervous system and feelings of stress.

Our stress hormone, cortisol, can deplete our magnesium levels which is a key mineral involved in over 300 processes in the body. Stay Calm^® includes Magnesium in a highly absorbable form which supports the nervous system, helps relax the muscles and helps reduce tiredness and fatigue. By calming the nervous system and helping the mind ‘unwind’, research shows magnesium supports the body’s ability to better manage the sleep cycle, allowing a restful night of sleep. You may also enjoy reading ‘What is cortisol? Causes, Symptoms and Treatment of High Cortisol Levels’.^2-5

Chronic stress can have devastating effects on the mind and body. Vitamin B5 is a very important nutrient that regulates the production of the stress hormone cortisol and supports the normal function of the adrenal glands. Vitamin B5 also supports our normal mental performance, contributes to the normal synthesis of Vitamin D and key neurotransmitters, and reduces tiredness and fatigue.^2,6

Vitamin B6 is included in Stay Calm^® in an easily absorbable form which supports psychological function and wellbeing.

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When our bodies produce excess cortisol, which occurs during chronic stress, it interferes with thyroid function.

Selenium contributes to a strong immune function and the protection of cells from oxidative stress, as well as providing support for the normal functioning of the thyroid. It’s role in supporting our thyroid function is important, because stress and anxiety impact the thyroid gland and in turn slow our metabolism, depriving our body of key nutrients that can otherwise help our body protect itself against stress. Learn more about ‘The 6 big signs of stress’. 

Kelp Extract provides a natural and concentrated source of Iodine, which is also required for normal thyroid function. Low levels of Selenium and Iodine have been shown to contribute to the development of anxiety and depression.

Stay Calm^® includes optimal levels of Selenium, Iodine and L-tyrosine in highly absorbable forms which all have a role to play in a healthy thyroid function.

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Stay Calm^® provides 100% of the recommended nutrient intake of a well-absorbed picolinate form of Chromium. 

Chromium and Vitamin B6 contribute to the maintenance of normal blood glucose levels, which supports our insulin sensitivity. Imbalanced blood glucose levels throughout the night can contribute to early waking and disrupted sleep. This affects all the processes that should occur during restorative sleep to help better cope with anxiety and stress. Evidence shows poor glycaemic regulation has been shown to closely mirror mental health symptoms, including irritability, worry and stress. ^36-37

Research also shows Ashwagandha plays a role in improving sleep quality by lowering cortisol levels, shortening the time it takes to fall asleep and supporting restorative sleep.

Full list of references.