Polyphenols: The Plant Powerhouse Your Menopausal Mojo's Been Missing

Let’s talk polyphenols, shall we?

No, it’s not a fancy Italian wine (although some wines do contain them—cheers to that). Polyphenols are those naturally occurring compounds found in plants that do everything short of folding your laundry. And for us hot, bothered, and hormonally-challenged women over 40? They’re the kind of silent sidekicks we need more of—quietly handling the chaos like the one friend who actually reads the instructions.

So, what the heck are polyphenols?

Polyphenols are like the sassiest little molecules in fruits, veggies, herbs, spices, tea, coffee, dark chocolate (praise be) and yes, red wine. They help protect plants from stress and damage—and when we eat them, they return the favour.

Basically, they’re the badass bouncers at the door of our cells, blocking the toxic party crashers (aka oxidative stress, inflammation, and chronic disease).

Why should a perimenopausal or menopausal woman give a flying fig about polyphenols?

Glad you asked. Here's why polyphenols are your peri-to-post-menopause besties:

💓 Cardiovascular Queen

As oestrogen takes a nosedive (rude), our heart health can get a little wobbly. Polyphenols step in to support healthy blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and keep your ticker ticking like Cher on a comeback tour.

🔥 Anti-inflammatory A-listers

Inflammation during menopause? It’s real. One minute you’re fine, the next your joints feel like they’re auditioning for a zombie flick. Polyphenols cool that fire with anti-inflammatory effects that make turmeric jealous.

🧠 Brain Fog? Be Gone!

You know when you walk into a room and forget why you’re there? (Been there. Often.) Polyphenols support cognitive function and may help preserve memory and mental sharpness. Basically, they’re the mental multivitamin you didn’t know you needed.

😍 Gut Lovin'

Your gut is the command centre of your entire health empire. Polyphenols support a thriving microbiome, help improve digestion, and even help your body manage blood sugar like a boss. Your gut bugs love 'em—and a happy gut = a happier, less bloated you.

Where do I get my polyphenol fix?

Mother Nature’s stocked the shelves. Load up on:

• Berries – blueberries, strawberries, raspberries. Think of them as Botox in berry form.

• Dark Chocolate – minimum 70%. Maximum joy.

• Green tea and coffee – your morning ritual just got bonus points.

• Herbs & spices – turmeric, oregano, rosemary, and cinnamon are more than just pantry décor.

• Colourful veggies – eat the rainbow, glow like a goddess.

• Red wine – one glass - maybe two, but let’s not get carried away :)

The Takeaway

Polyphenols are your ride-or-die plant-based BFFs. They won’t erase your hot flushes, but they’ll sure as hell help your body handle the hormonal rollercoaster with more sass and less struggle.

So, eat the plants. Sip the wine. Sprinkle the spices. And remember: thriving through menopause is about stacking the small wins—and polyphenols are a deliciously simple one.

XO Jane