The Protein Question Every Woman in Menopause Should Be Asking
Are you getting enough protein - or just eating less because the scale isn't cooperating? Midlife is a great time to think about muscle, strength and nourishment, not just weight.
9/9/20261 min read
Let's talk about something that doesn't sound very exciting until you hit midlife: protein.
If you're noticing changes in your weight, strength, energy, or muscle tone during menopause, protein deserves a place in the conversation. A new analysis from Australia's national science agency has highlighted a protein gap among women ages 40 to 55. That's especially interesting because those are prime years for perimenopause and menopause.
As we get older, maintaining muscle becomes increasingly important. And simply eating less isn't necessarily the answer to midlife weight changes. This is where protein can become part of the bigger picture.
Protein-rich foods can help you feel satisfied after meals and provide the building blocks your body needs to maintain and repair muscle. Think eggs, Greek yogurt, fish, chicken, beans, lentils, cottage cheese, tofu (not a favorite of mine but others may feel differently), nuts, and other protein-rich foods.
And no, this doesn't mean you need to start drinking enormous protein shakes or eating chicken breasts at every meal. It means taking a look at your meals and asking: "Where's the protein?"
Breakfast is often an easy place to start. Instead of toast by itself, try eggs or Greek yogurt. Add beans to lunch. Include a protein source at dinner. Small changes can add up.
Menopause isn't the time to punish your body for changing. It's the time to give it what it needs to stay strong.
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