Plant-based protein diet reduces risk of early menopause

According to a recent study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, women who consume more plant-based protein, have a lower risk of developing early onset of menopause. 

“I was suffering from headaches almost every day for weeks and was finding it difficult to sleep. I also had the urge to pass urine almost all the time. I was not aware that a woman could develop menopause at such an young age. As I was working, I would eat out a lot. Little did I know that it could have such a great impact,” said the woman, who works in a software company.  

The study that was published in the Journal found that eating plant-based protein benefits reproductive health, while women who consume just one serving of red meat per day, increase their risk of early onset menopause by 12 per cent. 

HIGHER RISK 

Early menopause is linked to higher risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders. “Food could impact hormonal changes in the body. The cycle of menopause is also linked to the genes. The body requires a good intake of lean proteins to help build immunity to deal with the change,” said Dr Pavithra Raj, an Obstetric Gynaecologist. 

“I see a number of cases of women developing their menopause when still young. With the change in lifestyle and eating habits, it tends to develop early. Many women do not have the time to exercise or choose not to do so. This is another factor, for the early onset of menopause,” added the doctor.  

As part of the study that was conducted, researchers had studied the dietary patterns of 85,682 women and found that those who consumed three to four servings (about 32.5 grams) of plant-based protein daily, slashed their risk of developing menopause before age 45 by 16 per cent. The researchers found that a one per cent increase in plant-based protein amounted to a six per cent decreased risk in early onset menopause. Consuming just one serving of red meat, led to a 12-per cent increase in developing the disorder. 

“Not only does this become a problem for women who opt for late pregnancies, but it has also been found to be linked to premature mortality and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Women should understand the link between a good vegetable protein and ovarian aging, which will help them identify ways to modify their risk of early onset of menopause and associated health conditions,” said Gynaecologist Dr Gowri.   

“Often, women who are weak are not able to bear the physical strain that the body undergoes due to the fluctuating levels of hormones. Proteins give the body strength to bear the changes. Hence its intake in good quantity is important. Consuming junk food is associated with higher risk and therefore should be avoided,” said nutritionist Raveena K.