Sleep is the menopause symptom most women would like to relieve, according to a survey backed by supplement maker Natrol.
The Californian company, which has produced a soy isoflavone and black cohosh supplement with added melatonin to encourage sleep, said that the survey was designed to uncover challenges faced by menopausal women, following conflicting news on HRT to treat symptoms and potential health effects.
The nationally random survey, conducted by independent research firm IMR MarketEffect, found 66 per cent of women to experience sleep problems that affect their energy levels and 54 per cent and 50 per cent respectively said lack of sleep affected their concentration and motivation.
The other main symptoms women reported seeking relief for were hot flashes (43 per cent) and weight gain (37 per cent).
Only 15 per cent of women surveyed said they were currently taking prescription HRT, and 69 per cent said they had not explored other alternatives. Twenty-three per cent of women said they take nutritional supplements to help relieve menopause symptoms.
Natrol's supplement, Complete Balance AM/PM, combines calcium, B vitamins, soy isoflavones and black cohosh with melatonin, taken on its own to help reduce the effects of jet lag and promote sleep.