Diet and Menopause

Lim et al. (2020) conducted a multi-center, randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial testing the efficacy of Lactobacillus acidophilus YT1 (MENOLACTO) on menopausal symptoms among a female population (aged between 40 and 60) with menopausal symptoms. The women included in the study scored ≥ 20 in the Kupperman index (KMI), which is a measure of menopausal symptom severity. The subjects were assigned to take either 1 × 108 CFU/day MENOLACTO or placebo, and completed a quality of life questionnaire (MENQOL questionnaire) plus were examined on their symptom severity (overall KMI score). Compared to placebo, total and modified KMI scores of the MENOLACTO-taking group were lower (total KMI scores significantly decreased) after 12 weeks. As with KMI scores, the quality of life of the intervention group improved significantly in all 4 of the symptoms examined (physical, psychosocial, vasomotor, and sexual symptoms). No significant differences were found between the groups in levels of blood follicle-stimulating hormone, estradiol, nor endometrial thickness. Without notable side effects, the MENOLACTO alleviated menopausal symptoms and improved the women’s quality of life. The findings suggest its potential role as an alternative supplement to reduce menopausal symptoms in women ineligible for hormonal therapy.