A succinate-based composition reverses menopausal symptoms without sex hormone replacement therapy

Area of Science:

• Biochemistry
• Gerontology
• Gynecology

Background:

• Menopausal transition presents adverse symptoms often treated with hormone replacement therapy, which carries health risks.
• Existing treatments for menopausal syndrome may have associated health risks, necessitating exploration of alternatives.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy of a succinate-based food composition (SBC) for treating menopausal syndrome.
• To evaluate the impact of SBC on the estral cycle, bone mass, and hormone levels in aging mice and menopausal women.

Main Methods:

• A 4-week SBC treatment was administered to aging mice to assess its effects on the estral cycle and bone parameters.
• A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical study evaluated SBC's impact on hormone levels and menopausal symptoms in early menopausal women over 5 weeks.

Main Results:

• SBC demonstrated a "rejuvenating" effect in mice, restoring the estral cycle and increasing bone weight and calcium content.
• In women, SBC monotherapy significantly reduced subjective menopausal symptoms, increased estradiol levels fourfold, and alleviated neurovegetative and psycho-emotional disorders.
• Succinate-based therapy showed no adverse side effects in either mice or women.

Conclusions:

• Succinate-based therapy is a promising, safe approach for alleviating biochemical and symptomatic aspects of menopause.
• SBC effectively addresses menopausal syndrome symptoms, including hot flushes, headaches, and anxiety, while improving hormonal balance.