W-Wellness, the UK’s first expert-led wellness platform and marketplace, has revealed the most-searched menopause-related questions in the UK. With October being Menopause Awareness Month, culminating in Menopause Awareness Day on 18th October 2024, W-Wellness aims to support those experiencing peri- and menopausal symptoms by offering guidance from their team of nutritionists and practitioners.

It is estimated that around 13 million people in the UK are peri- or menopausal, representing a third of the UK’s female population. Menopause can lead to a wide range of physical and psychological symptoms, often lasting several years.

Laura Southern, nutritionist for W-Wellness, explained: “For many women, the menopause transition can cause unwelcome physical and psychological changes. Symptoms are varied, but common ones include blood sugar changes, weight gain, bone loss, sleep disturbances, anxiety, fatigue, brain fog, and hot flushes.

“These changes are challenging, but nutrition and lifestyle adjustments can make a meaningful difference. Increasing fibre, particularly foods rich in phytoestrogens, can support hot flushes, mood changes, and hormone balance. Additionally, ensuring a diet rich in magnesium, calcium, and vitamin D can bolster bone density, while omega-3 fatty acids support blood sugar, mood, and brain fog.”

Top menopause-related searches in the UK

W-Wellness has also shared the top menopause-related searches in the UK over the last 12 months:

• “Perimenopause”
• “Menopause symptoms”
• “Menopause”
• “Perimenopause symptoms”
• “Symptoms”
• “What are the 34 symptoms of perimenopause?”
• “BMS” (British Menopause Society)
• “Low estrogen symptoms”
• “Peri menopausal”
• “Hot flushes”

Emma Olliff, head of digital and e-commerce at W-Wellness, noted the increasing demand for information on the platform: “We have seen a sharp rise in searches by consumers seeking expert advice or supplements to support them through the peri and menopause stage over the past 12 months. It’s encouraging to see more people actively seeking information, and we encourage open conversations around this important topic.”

Foods that combat hot flushes

Maz Packham, a Nutritionist for W-Wellness, shared their top five foods to help alleviate hot flushes, one of the most well-known symptoms of menopause:

• Flaxseeds. Rich in lignans, a powerful phytoestrogen that supports hormonal balance.
• Soybeans. Contain isoflavones (genistein and daidzein), phytoestrogens that help with hormone regulation.
• Lentils. Another source of isoflavones, aiding hormonal balance.
• Salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids in oily fish can reduce inflammation and potentially improve mood and hot flushes.
• Spinach. Leafy greens, like spinach and kale, are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, which support hormonal balance.

Practical tips for managing menopause symptoms

Maz Packham also offered practical advice for addressing common menopause symptoms:

• Anxiety. Focus on the positive aspects of your life. Gratitude journaling can be effective for reframing your thoughts and emphasising the positive. Take a few moments each day to write down three things that brought you joy.
• Disturbed sleep. Set aside 30 minutes before bed to wind down. Try a short meditation, or elevate your legs against a wall for 5–10 minutes to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, helping prepare the body for sleep.
• Dry skin. Incorporate healthy fats into your diet, such as avocado, olive oil, nuts, seeds, and oily fish like salmon. Omega-3 fatty acids can support skin elasticity and hydration.
• Brain fog. Stay hydrated. The brain is 75% water, so even slight dehydration can impact focus and memory. Aim for two litres of water per day – herbal teas count too.
• Aching joints. Include anti-inflammatory foods in your diet, such as ginger and turmeric. Turmeric’s curcumin has strong anti-inflammatory effects, while ginger can help reduce pain.

W-Wellness menopause essentials

To help manage menopausal symptoms, W-Wellness offers two curated product collections:

• Menopause Essentials (£99). This duo includes True Collagen, which supports skin health and joint comfort, and Equi Menopause Formula, which helps with energy levels, hormone balance, and cognitive function.
• Ultimate Menopause Edit (£271.90). This set of four products includes Totally Derma and Artah Cellular Hydration for skin and joint health, Equi Menopause Formula for overall well-being, and HdT Mico-Rei, which leverages the benefits of Reishi mushrooms to further support the body during perimenopause.

By offering this range of products and expert guidance, W-Wellness continues to provide valuable support to women navigating the complex journey of menopause.