Summary
Weight gain is identified as the most commonly reported symptom among women experiencing perimenopause and menopause, surpassing more recognized symptoms such as hot flushes and sleep disturbances. Research conducted by Dr. Jilly Hendry from CSIRO reveals that 80% of women surveyed reported weight gain during this life stage. The discussion highlights the need for a shift in focus from the traditional "eat less, move more" advice to a more nuanced understanding of diet quality and timing, particularly regarding protein intake.
Dr. Hendry emphasizes the importance of protein for maintaining muscle mass and overall health as women age. She notes that many women fall short of their daily protein requirements, often consuming most of their protein at dinner rather than distributing it throughout the day. The conversation encourages women to incorporate protein-rich foods into all meals, including breakfast and lunch, to help manage appetite and support metabolic health. Additionally, the podcast addresses common misconceptions about dieting during menopause, advocating for a balanced approach that includes all food groups rather than extreme restrictions.
The CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet is presented as a supportive framework for women navigating menopause, promoting high-protein, well-balanced meals without eliminating any food groups. The program also offers personalized menu plans and tracking tools to help women maintain accountability and achieve their health goals. Overall, the discussion aims to empower women to take control of their health and well-being during this transitional phase of life.
Show Notes
Weight gain during perimenopause and menopause can feel frustrating, confusing and sometimes downright unfair – especially when the healthy habits that once worked no longer seem to make a difference. But what if the answer isn't simply to eat less? New research from the CSIRO has revealed that weight gain is the most commonly reported symptom of menopause, ahead of hot flushes, fatigue and sleep disturbances. And there's another surprising finding: many women in midlife aren't getting enough protein to support their changing bodies. In this episode of Thriving in Menopause, Prevention editor Zoe Meunier is joined by Dr Gilly Hendrie, Research Scientist at the CSIRO and part of the team behind the CSIRO Total Wellbeing Diet, to unpack what's really happening to our metabolism, muscle mass and nutritional needs during menopause. Together, they explore why traditional weight-loss advice can miss the mark, the importance of protein for healthy ageing and how small, realistic changes to what we eat can make a meaningful difference – without restrictive dieting or expensive supplements. If you've ever wondered why your body seems to be playing by a different set of rules in midlife, this is an episode you won't want to miss. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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