A new study from the University of the Sunshine Coast in Australia suggests that what women eat might affect their menopause symptoms and overall health.
The study looked at the diets of over 200 women, with an average age of 51, and compared their food habits to the Mediterranean diet—a diet known for its benefits to physical and mental health.
The research was published in the European Journal of Nutrition.
The Mediterranean diet focuses on healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains, olive oil, and fish, while limiting red and processed meats, sugary drinks, and processed foods.
These foods have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may help improve overall health.
Lead researcher Tilly Byrne-Kirk and her supervisor, Dr. Anthony Villani, found that most of the women in the study were not following the Mediterranean diet.
Their diets were lacking important food groups like vegetables, fruits, nuts, fish, and legumes.
At the same time, many of the women reported experiencing common menopause symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, joint pain, and trouble sleeping.
While the study didn’t prove a direct link between the Mediterranean diet and fewer menopause symptoms, it did reveal some important findings.
Women who drank fewer sugary drinks had fewer joint and muscle pains, and those who ate less red and processed meat had better overall health.
Additionally, women who followed the Mediterranean diet more closely reported better physical function, including improved muscle strength, flexibility, and ability to exercise.
Dr. Villani noted that menopause is a natural part of aging for women, but there’s increasing evidence that following a Mediterranean-style diet can help improve physical function and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
This becomes even more important as women age, especially past their 60s, to help prevent frailty and maintain independence.
In summary, adopting healthier eating habits, such as cutting back on sugary drinks and red meat, may help women feel better during menopause and improve their long-term health.
Source: KSR.
