Posted on 2 May 2023
The links between menopause, HRT, and osteoporosis

Through the work of powerful women, public awareness of menopause is higher than ever. But did you know post-menopausal women are at a much greater risk of developing osteoporosis?
We all know that vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining good bone health, especially in women during menopause. You may not know that HRT can impact the body’s ability to generate new bone. This can increase your risk of experiencing bone health problems.
Don’t worry, though. In this article, we answer some of the frequently asked questions (FAQs) about vitamin D and its relationship to bone health, menopause, osteoporosis, and Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT).
What is Vitamin D, and why is it essential for bone health?
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin naturally produced in the body when exposed to sunlight.
You can also get vitamin D from fatty fish, eggs, and other fortified foods.
Vitamin D is crucial to helping your body and bones absorb calcium and phosphorus, essential minerals for building and maintaining healthy bones. It works to help regulate the levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood, which helps to maintain bone density and strength.
How does Vitamin D deficiency affect bone health?
If you’re getting enough vitamin D through your diet, sunlight, and supplements, then happy days!
Vitamin D deficiency can lead to a decrease in calcium absorption, weakening bones and leading to osteoporosis.
Osteoporosis is a condition characterised by low bone mass and increased bone fragility. While it affects all bones in the body, it significantly increases the risk of fractures in the hip, spine, and wrist.
How much Vitamin D do I need for optimal bone health?
Your recommended daily intake of Vitamin D varies depends on your age, sex, and overall health.
The Institute of Medicine, for example, recommends every adult sgetts between 600 to 800 IU of Vitamin D a day.
However, some experts suggest taking up to 2,000 – 4000 IU is necessary for optimal bone health, especially in those at risk of Vitamin D deficiency.
Your doctor can recommend the optimal amount of vitamin D for you.
How does menopause affect bone health?
During menopause, women experience a fall in oestrogen production, which can lead to bone loss and increase the risk of osteoporosis.
Specifically, the reduction in oestrogen production can affect the bone remodelling process, which can cause a decrease in bone density and strength.
A woman’s risk of developing osteoporosis increases significantly in the first five years after menopause. During this critical period, women are advised to take measures to maintain optimal bone health, including ensuring they get enough vitamin D.
Can Vitamin D supplementation help prevent osteoporosis in menopausal women?
Scientific studies have shown that vitamin D supplementation can lower osteoporosis risks for menopausal women.
It can improve calcium absorption, increase bone density, and reduce the risk of fractures.
If that’s not enough, vitamin D supplementation can also help improve muscle strength, which is crucial for maintaining balance and preventing falls in older women.
Can Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) help prevent osteoporosis in menopausal women?
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) involves taking oestrogen to replace the hormones lost during menopause. HRT has been shown to help prevent bone loss in menopausal women and reduce the risk of fractures. However, HRT is not without risks. It could increase your risk of blood clots, stroke, and breast cancer.
All women should discuss the potential risks and benefits of HRT with their doctor before starting to take it.
Can Vitamin D supplementation be taken with HRT?
Yes, Vitamin D supplements are safe to take alongside HRT.
In fact, it is recommended that women taking HRT should also take a Vitamin D supplement to maintain optimal bone health.
Vitamin D and HRT work together to improve bone density. This can help to reduce the risk of fractures in menopausal women.
Are there any risks associated with Vitamin D supplementation?
Vitamin D supplementation is generally safe – as long as you stick to the recommended dosage.
Too much vitamin D can cause vitamin D toxicity. Symptoms of Vitamin D toxicity can include nausea, vomiting, constipation, weakness, and confusion. However, this is rare.
How can I get enough Vitamin D naturally?
The single best source of vitamin D around is the sun! It’s 100% natural, and 100% free!
Spending 10-15 minutes in the sun is enough for the body to produce enough Vitamin D. However, excessive exposure to sunlight can increase the risk of skin cancer.
Vitamin D is also in food, including fortified foods like milk, yoghurt, and cereals, egg yolks, and fatty fish
Taking a daily supplement is the most effective way to ensure you’re getting enough.
What lifestyle changes will help me build stronger bones?
Healthcare professionals recommend all women undertake regular weight-bearing exercises. These can include walking, jogging, and strength training. Together, these can help improve bone density and strength.
As we’ve explained, a diet that’s rich in calcium and vitamin D is important for bone health.
Stopping smoking and cutting down on drinking are essential.
Final words…
We know that vitamin D is crucial in maintaining optimal bone health, especially in women during menopause and those at risk of developing osteoporosis.
Vitamin D supplementation and HRT can help reduce the risk of osteoporosis and fractures in menopausal women. Still, you must ensure you take the recommended dose.
At Stronger Bones, we stock the UK’s best vitamin D supplement tablets, sprays, and gummies. You can find low-priced supplements from the best brands, including Higher Nature, Solgar, and Better You.
Shop online today and get free delivery when you spend over £25. We’re on a mission to improve the UK’s bone health, supporting every woman to stay healthier and live better.