My tummy, just below my breasts, is really bloated. I'm also getting pain in my lower back and in my abdomen. I've not had any periods for about a year now. I'm 54 years old. Is this normal?

Bloating is very common in the menopause and can be caused by several factors.

Lowering levels of oestrogen can affect the digestion itself, causing bloating.

Also, lowering oestrogen can have an effect on carbohydrate  metabolism making it more difficult to digest carbohydrates and this can often lead to bloating.

I would suggest Molkosan Vitality as this is traditionally used for bloating.

Try to avoid white bread, pasta, cakes, biscuits, and also white rice - you may notice a difference very quickly doing this!

However, it is also important to check with your doctor if the bloating has been going on for more than a couple of weeks.

Eileen Durward