Lowerestrogenlevels also affect metabolism.
Fortunately, lifestyle and diet changes can improve some menopause symptoms.
Lower estrogen levels slow metabolism and change how the body digests carbohydrates.

Mumemories / Getty Images
Healthy dietary changes can support the body during this transition.
Focusing on nutrient-dense foods can improve some symptoms during menopause.
A nutritious diet can boost energy levels, improve sleep, reduce weight gain, and help withmood swings.
This is the age when certain hormones naturally start to decline.
Surgical menopause is permanent and happens when a person has theiruterusor ovaries removed.
Chemical menopause is temporary and shows up when a person takes medications calledgonadotropin-releasing hormone agonists(GnRHa).
Chemical menopause is reversible and stops once the medication stops.
They are rich in vitamins, minerals,fiber, andantioxidants.
Dairy Products
Dairy products provide protein andcalciumto strengthen bones and protect them from fractures.
Good dairy options include low-fatmilk, yogurt, and cheese.
Healthy Fats
Higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids are associated with better health during menopause.
People with chronic conditions like diabetes or heart disease tend to have lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids.
Because menopause raises the risk of heart disease, whole grains are an important part of the menopause diet.
These foods may improve bone health and lower the risk of heart disease in people going through menopause.
Habits to Support Weight Loss
It is common togain weightbefore, during, or after menopause.
Menopause raises the risk of obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis.
Erdelyi A, Palfi E, Tuu L, et al.The importance of nutrition in menopause and perimenopause-A review.Nutrients.
2017;24(4):371-378. doi:10.1097/GME.0000000000000775
International Association for Premenstrual Disorders.Chemical menopause.
National Institute on Aging.What is menopause?.
2014 Nov;10(6):599-608. doi:10.2217/whe.14.40
American Heart Association.Picking healthy proteins.
2017;28(4):1401-1411. doi:10.1007/s00198-016-3898-7
U.S. Department of Agriculture.What foods are included in the dairy group?
Ko SH, Kim HS.Menopause-associated lipid metabolic disorders and foods beneficial for postmenopausal women.Nutrients.
2016;353:i2716.
2021;24(2):128-138. doi:10.1080/13697137.2020.1828854
Oldeways Whole Grain Council.Whole grains 101.
Rowe IJ, Baber RJ.The effects of phytoestrogens on postmenopausal health.Climacteric.
2019;7(3):495-499. doi:10.3889/oamjms.2019.044