I can add just a little here. Bioidentical hormones are plant (soy) based and are "suppose" to match our chemistry better than synthetic. Synthetic estrogen is derived from the urine of pregnant horses, and doesn't match our biological make up. Suzanne Sommers is a strong supporter of bioidentical hormones, according to her, they helped her fight breast cancer.
(They believe synthetic HRT is what caused my mother's breast cancer)

I am currently listening to a program on lead contamination in Washington DCs water supply and a couple of things came up that may be of interest to those approaching or in menopause.

First, lead gets stored in the bones because, somehow, it tricks the body to thinking it's calcium. They say it does not present a health danger if it's in the bones and stays there.

However, during menopause, your body may pull calcium from your bones to be used if your dietary intake is inadequate. In this case, your body may be pulling out the lead putting it back into your system which can cause problems. Toxic lead levels do have neurological implications. Apparently, this is also true during pregnancy.

I would venture to say that optimizing your mineral intake, along with vitamin D, at this point in your life can be helpful.

Marlene