20-03-2025
Advocates warn consumers of misleading menopause supplement claims
(NewsNation) — Menopause, once only whispered about, is now front and center in mainstream discussions, and advocacy groups are cautioning consumers against alleged deceptive marketing practices for menopause supplements.
Celebrities such as Drew Barrymore, Serena Williams, Naomi Watts and Gwyneth Paltrow have endorsed various menopause supplements, ranging from cooling pajamas to specialty hot chocolates.
The Super Bowl aired its first menopause-focused commercial in 2023, signaling a growing industry — particularly in supplements, which dominate 95% of the market. The sector is projected to surpass $22 billion by 2028.
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More than 1 million women in the United States experience menopause annually, according to the National Institute of Aging. It can cause debilitating symptoms: hot flashes so severe that you sweat through your clothes, brain fog so extreme you can't focus at work, sleepless nights, anxiety and depression.
Though the topic has become less taboo, investigations by consumer advocacy organization Truth in Advertising and recent rulings by the Advertising Standards Authority found brands such as Equelle, Amberen, Happy Mammoth and Feel may be making misleading claims about menopausal relief.
Truth in Advertising filed complaints with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and Federal Trade Commission, citing nearly 2,000 claims, alleging some supplements were unsupported by 'competent and reliable scientific evidence.' The group also sent letters to 100 supplement companies, urging them to review their marketing practices to ensure they comply with the law.
The group also published an alert urging consumers to be cautious when shopping for menopause supplements.
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The Advertising Standards Authority has ruled against advertisements by several brands, including Happy Mammoth's menopause supplement MenoDaily, for misleading claims. The authority alleged the advertisements claimed supplements could prevent, treat or cure menopausal symptoms.
Last April, a MenoDaily advertisement was published on Facebook, featuring testimonials claiming significant weight loss, reduced bloating and improved energy and mood.
The authority challenged the ad, arguing it made false claims about treating or curing menopausal symptoms and referred to a specific amount of weight loss.
Happy Mammoth responded that the ad was mistakenly posted, and it was subsequently removed.
Regulators have emphasized that any product's claims about menopause must be scientifically substantiated.
Misleading marketing practices not only risk potentially exploiting women who are seeking relief but also potentially risk women's health by encouraging unproven products over medically supported treatments.
The real challenge is that menopause is not a one-size-fits-all experience. Early education and preparation are key, as some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as in their late 30s.
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