Folate contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue

Folate (vitamin B9) plays a crucial role in energy metabolism, helping to reduce tiredness and fatigue by supporting the production of red blood cells and the synthesis of DNA. In menopausal women, hormonal changes—particularly a decline in oestrogen—can exacerbate feelings of fatigue due to its effects on energy levels and overall well-being. Adequate folate intake can help alleviate these symptoms by maintaining energy production and reducing the common exhaustion associated with menopause.

Folate contributes to normal psychological function

Folate contributes to brain function and psychological well-being, playing a key role in neurotransmitter synthesis, particularly in the production of serotonin, a hormone associated with mood regulation. Menopausal women are at increased risk of mood fluctuations and depressive symptoms due to the decrease in oestrogen, which influences serotonin levels. By supporting the synthesis of this neurotransmitter, folate may contribute to more stable mood regulation and improved psychological function, helping mitigate the psychological challenges of menopause.

Folate contributes to normal amino acid synthesis

Folate is involved in the conversion of homocysteine into methionine, an essential amino acid necessary for protein synthesis. This process is important for the maintenance of muscle mass, tissue repair, and overall metabolic function. In menopausal women, muscle mass and metabolism can decline due to hormonal changes, making the role of folate in amino acid synthesis particularly important. Adequate folate intake contributes to the body’s ability to synthesise proteins efficiently, which can help maintain muscle health and metabolic stability during menopause.

Folate contributes to normal blood formation

Folate supports the production and maturation of red blood cells, ensuring normal blood formation. During menopause, women may experience increased risk of anaemia due to fluctuating hormone levels and changes in iron metabolism. Anaemia can lead to symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. Folate supports the production of healthy red blood cells, supporting in mitigating the risk of anaemia and helping maintain healthy blood function and energy levels.

Folate contributes to normal homocysteine metabolism

Folate helps regulate homocysteine levels by converting it into methionine. Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases, and postmenopausal women can be particularly vulnerable due to the protective effects of oestrogen being reduced. By contributing to normal homocysteine metabolism, folate helps reduce cardiovascular risk, offering an additional layer of protection to menopausal women against heart disease.

Folate contributes to the normal function of the immune system

Folate is crucial for the synthesis of DNA and RNA in immune cells, which are important for their normal function and proliferation. During menopause, the immune system may weaken as oestrogen levels decline, making women more susceptible to infections and slower recovery. Adequate folate intake supports the normal function of the immune system by facilitating the production of new immune cells.

Folate has a role in the process of cell division

Folate is important for DNA synthesis and repair, processes that are critical for healthy cell division. As cells in the body are constantly dividing and renewing, folate supports this process to occur efficiently and reduce errors. In menopausal women, cellular health can be impacted by the ageing process and oxidative stress, which accelerates with declining oestrogen levels. Folate’s role in cell division may help maintain healthy tissue repair and regeneration, supporting overall cellular health during and after menopause.