Gut health changed? You're not alone New breakthrough research by DR.VEGAN® reveals how peri- and menopause both trigger significant digestive imbalances L MENOFRIEND® HELPS TO REGULATE HORMONE IMBALANCE isten to your gut: it's a phrase we're all familiar with. But while it usually refers to trusting our instinct, in menopause it takes on a whole new meaning. Ninety-one percent of women have changes in their gut health at this time of life - that's the finding of a study by plant-based supplements company DR.VEGAN® that involved more than 1,500 women. It's not just an occasional discomfort - more than 75% of those with bloating and excessive wind and gas are experiencing these symptoms nearly every single day. Half of women who have acid reflux and constipation suffer almost daily, too. THE MENOPAUSE EFFECT So what's going on? Oestrogen is crucial for maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, so changes in levels triggered by menopause can impact gut health. The gut microbiome also helps to regulate oestrogen through enzymes, so any disruption in gut health can worsen signs of menopause. Women are twice as likely to first notice changes in gut health during perimenopause compared to menopause. WE ARE WHAT WE EAT When life feels busy, thinking about the food choices we're making can be low on our list of priorities. But 83% of the women surveyed said the following diet tweaks have helped to relieve symptoms of menopause: ◆ Increasing plants and vegetables ◆ Reducing or avoiding alcohol ◆ Reducing or avoiding dairy and/or gluten ◆ Increasing fibre intake