Evidence supporting the use of: Fish oil
For the health condition: Menopause

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Fish oil, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids (particularly EPA and DHA), has some scientific evidence supporting its use for certain symptoms associated with menopause, though the evidence is limited and mixed. Several studies have evaluated the impact of fish oil supplementation on menopausal symptoms, especially vasomotor symptoms such as hot flashes, and mood disturbances like depression and anxiety, which can be common during menopause.

A few randomized controlled trials suggest that omega-3 fatty acids may provide modest relief from depressive symptoms in menopausal women. For example, a 2015 study in Menopause found that omega-3 supplementation reduced the frequency of hot flashes compared to placebo, though the effect size was small. Other studies, however, have failed to demonstrate significant benefits on hot flashes or night sweats. The proposed mechanisms include the anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of omega-3s, as well as their potential role in modulating neurotransmitters involved in mood regulation.

It is important to note that major medical organizations do not currently recommend fish oil as a primary treatment for menopause symptoms, because the overall quality and consistency of evidence is not strong. Fish oil is not a traditional remedy for menopause, but its use is based on emerging scientific studies. Women considering fish oil for menopausal symptom relief should consult their healthcare provider, as it may interact with certain medications and is not universally effective for all symptoms.

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