Menopause impacts women's quality of life and metabolic health

Menopause presents significant physiological challenges for women, including vasomotor symptoms and metabolic shifts. According to Associate Professor Ebru Zülfikaroğlu, symptoms such as hot flashes and night sweats can severely impact sleep quality, daily comfort, concentration, and work performance.

Research indicates that these symptoms are widespread; some studies in Turkey show that approximately 95% of women experience moderate to very severe symptoms, while others suggest about half of women face moderate or severe levels. Night sweats, in particular, can disrupt rest and lead to daytime fatigue and energy loss.

Beyond vasomotor symptoms, a clinical review published in The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist highlights the role of estrogen in maintaining muscle and vascular health. As estrogen levels decline, women may lose an average of 0.6% of muscle mass annually. This loss can trigger a metabolic chain reaction, including insulin resistance, increased visceral fat, reduced vascular elasticity, and rising blood pressure.

To mitigate these effects, experts recommend resistance training at least 2-3 times per week rather than relying solely on walking, as well as increasing protein intake to 1.2-1.6 grams per kilogram of body weight to combat anabolic resistance.