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The progression of perimenopause to menopause is marked by declines in estrogen and progesterone that translate to a variety of uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, anxiety and weight gain. This decline in estrogen has been shown to increase levels of oxidative stress and chronic inflammatory processes in the body. In fact, low levels of estrogen actually create antioxidant stress [1]. This leads to increases in inflammatory proteins and pro-oxidants in the blood that can wreak havoc in the body. So, it comes as no surprise that menopause is associated with an increased risk of heart disease, osteoporosis, cerebral ischemia and Alzheimer’s disease; all diseases that have oxidative stress and inflammation at their core [2].
Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory nutrition therapies can be used to mitigate perimenopausal symptoms and prevent disease. Many of the known botanicals used to treat perimenopausal symptoms also have antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory effects. Women are often overwhelmed by the multitude of nutraceutical options and find it difficult to know which choices are best for them and which ones are working. PhenomX has collaborated with Caligenix to create RNA expression testing for oxidative stress and inflammation that identifies the best nutritional therapies and promote healthy aging and longevity for women going through the perimenopause transition.