Have you anything that helps menopausal fatigue and lack of energy? I also have some tearful days and feel low.

The reason behind the low mood and weepiness is low oestrogen levels.

Oestrogen acts as a mild anti-depressant and generally makes us cheerier. With less of it around we can feel very emotionally vulnerable and weepy, even though our brain tells us that there is no real reason for our feelings. There are several things you can do to make yourself less vulnerable.

Firstly you could consider taking a phyto-oestrogen, which is gentle oestrogen found in plants, which can make you feel more emotionally robust without any of the side effects associated with a strong oestrogen like HRT. Check out Menopause Support for this one option.

Secondly you could consider taking Hypericum, if you are not on any other medication. This is a mild plant-based anti-depressant that many women find very supportive during the menopause. I suggest using the tincture (liquid) format if you go for this one, as it works faster than the tablets.

Thirdly, exercise makes you produce more natural antidepressants in your own body, so although it's usually the last thing you feel like doing with fatigue, a 10-20 minute walk around the block or even 5 minutes gentle breathing exercises will make you feel a lot better. If you get used to doing a small amount of exercise most days - just 10-20 minutes, nothing drastic - then you will be better protected against low mood and it will gradually help your energy levels too.

On that front, though, try using a natural iron tonic to up your energy levels in the short term - Floradix or Feroglobin are both good. Avoid caffeine, as that makes fatigue worse, and drink heaps of water to give you more protection against fatigue.

Eileen Durward