HRT medications are primarily broken up into two categories: those with estrogen, and those with a combination of estrogen and progesterone. It is important to remember that the link between HRT and nutrient deficiencies arises from the use of estrogen. Below are some common names of HRT medications:

• Estrogen Only

• Estrace

• Premarin

• Cenestin

• Ogen

• Climera and Estraderm (skin patches)

• Estrogen plus Progesterone

• Activella

• Prempro

• Femhrt

Why do I need hormone replacement during menopause? 
The main reason for your doctor to prescribe hormone replacement medicines during menopause is to treat symptoms such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, and to help prevent osteoporosis. A doctor might also prescribe these medicines if a woman has had a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus). If taken long term, HRT can increase the risk of breast cancer, heart attack, and stroke so it is important to talk with your doctor regarding your personal risks. Some side effects of HRT include bloating, cramps, appetite changes, and breast tenderness. HRT can prevent caffeine breakdown therefore it is important to try and avoid caffeine containing foods and beverages while taking HRT. As stated above, hormone replacement therapy has been shown to deplete vitamin C, vitamin B-2, vitamin B-6, folic acid, vitamin B-12, magnesium, and zinc. 
  
What do these essential nutrients do?
* Vitamin C deficiency is related to an increased incidence of heart disease, high cholesterol, muscle and joint pain, cataracts, and osteoporosis. 

* Inadequate levels of vitamin B-2 are associated with fatigue, cataracts, migraines, and thyroid disease. 

* Low levels of vitamin B-6 are associated with carpal tunnel syndrome, migraine headaches, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and asthma. 

* Marginal folic acid and vitamin B-12 levels have been shown to cause high levels of a chemical called homocysteine (an amino acid metabolite). When elevated, homocysteine is a risk factor for osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and Alzheimer's. In addition, low levels of folic acid and vitamin B-12 are related to fatigue, anemia, and depression. 

* Magnesium plays a role in more than 300 chemical reactions in the body. Some of the conditions related to inadequate levels are osteoporosis, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, muscle and joint pain, heart arrhythmias, and fatigue. 

* Zinc is responsible for more than 200 chemical reactions in the body. Low levels of zinc are related to osteoporosis, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes, psoriasis, and acid-base balance disorders.

The nutrient depleting side effects of hormone replacement therapy are not common knowledge. Ask your doctor today about these potential side effects, and if you are taking one of these medications make sure you are also taking  menopause supplements so that you can get the most from your medicine and minimize nutrient losses. 

In summary, hormone replacement therapy prescribed by your doctor is necessary to treat your condition; however, you should also be aware that the long term potential nutritional side effects can negatively affect your health. Put the odds in your favor and maintain your health with menopause essential nutrients.

 

Return to articles index.