The Role of Polyphenols in Menopause

Abstract

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Menopause gives rise to an increase in the rate of the ageing process, thus causing premature ageing. • Oxidative stress occurs with menopause-related loss of oestrogens, this being responsible for premature ageing and much their of its associated physiological deterioration. • Polyphenols are a group of pigments widely distributed in plants and are responsible for colouring. Besides, they play a protective role due to their antioxidant activity. • Antioxidants, concretely polyphenols, can decrease the oxidative stress situation during menopause. • Diets rich in polyphenols, especially fl avonoids such as soy food and tea, can decrease the physiological consequences and symptoms of menopause, improving the state of health. • Diets and supplements containing fl avonoids such as iso fl avones (phytoestrogens) could be an alternative to the pharmacological treatments frequently prescribed for menopausal and postmenopausal women. • Since polyphenols improve immune system function, which is a marker of health, biological age and a predictor of longevity, the ingestion of these antioxidants could aid in slowing down the ageing process during menopause.