A recent investigation by consumer group Which? has raised concerns about the value of some supplements marketed towards women experiencing perimenopause or menopause. The report highlights that certain products, which can be priced up to 20 times higher than standard multivitamins, often do not deliver beneficial levels of key nutrients.
Which? examined 26 supplements aimed at women over 45 or undergoing menopause, analysing over 78 ingredients in light of the latest scientific understanding. The experts found that none of these supplements contained the optimal combination of nutrients, at effective doses, specifically for menopause-related health support.
During menopause, falling oestrogen levels make calcium and vitamin D crucial for maintaining bone health. Other potentially helpful nutrients include magnesium, iron, B vitamins, and vitamins C, E and K, alongside iodine, selenium and zinc.
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The consumer group suggests that a cost-effective strategy could involve purchasing a high-quality multivitamin and supplementing it with targeted nutrients as needed, rather than opting for expensive all-in-one menopause blends. For example, Asda’s A-Z Multivitamins & Minerals provide essential vitamins, 200mg of calcium and 100mg of magnesium at a daily cost of just 6p (£22 annually).
The report also indicated that many menopause supplements either contain “fairy-dusted” amounts of key nutrients-too low to offer health benefits-or omit important vitamins and minerals. Many products also include botanical ingredients such as black cohosh, soy, and red clover; however, evidence for their effectiveness is mixed, and their doses frequently fall short of those used in clinical trials.
Which? expressed concern over the supplement industry’s lack of stringent regulation, describing it as a “wild west” where dubious marketing and unchecked quasi-medical claims often exploit consumers' health anxieties.
The organisation recommends that shoppers scrutinise products beyond marketing claims by assessing their actual nutritional content and cost-effectiveness. Paying more does not necessarily guarantee a higher-quality or more effective supplement.
Which? nutritionist Shefalee Loth commented: “Navigating mid-life challenges is difficult enough, and with numerous products making bold claims, choosing the right supplement can be overwhelming and costly. Our research shows that, despite these claims, most products lack the foundational nutrients needed to address menopause-related deficiencies, even when priced at hundreds of pounds per year. We advise consumers to look beyond marketing and carefully consider their actual needs. A cheaper multivitamin may provide comparable support without the high price tag.”,