Don't you like to eat greasy food during menopause

Menopausal women often experience a dislike for greasy foods, which is related to factors such as changes in hormone levels, weakened digestive function, and altered taste sensitivity. Dietary adjustments during menopause should focus on the needs of balanced nutrition, reduced digestive burden, and emotional regulation.

1. Hormonal fluctuations affect appetite

Decreased estrogen levels directly affect the hypothalamic appetite regulation center, leading to rejection of high-fat foods. At this time, the body tends to choose light and easily digestible foods, which is a manifestation of the body's self-protection mechanism. It is recommended to choose foods rich in plant estrogens and healthy fats, such as soy products and deep-sea fish.

2. Decreased digestive function

Menopausal gastrointestinal motility slows down, digestive enzyme secretion decreases, and the ability to break down fat decreases. Greasy food can exacerbate discomfort symptoms such as bloating and acid reflux. Hawthorn, tangerine peel and other digestive aids can be added appropriately, and low-temperature cooking methods such as steaming and stewing can be used.

3. Changes in Taste Perception

Taste sensitivity decreases with age, but aversion to greasiness actually increases. This is related to reduced saliva secretion and dry oral mucosa. It is recommended to consume more fruits and vegetables with high water content, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, etc., which can not only replenish water but also provide a refreshing taste.

4. Decreased metabolic rate

The basal metabolic rate decreases by about 2-5% every decade, naturally reducing the demand for high calorie foods. It can increase coarse grains such as oats and quinoa, which are rich in dietary fiber, to control calorie intake and maintain satiety.

5. Emotional related anorexia

Emotional changes such as anxiety and depression can affect appetite through the brain gut axis, manifested as resistance to specific foods. It is recommended to maintain regular exercise and supplement with vitamin B and magnesium elements appropriately to help stabilize emotions and improve appetite.

Menopausal diet should follow the principle of small meals and multiple meals, with 5-6 meals per day arranged. Focus on supplementing high-quality protein such as fish and egg white, increasing calcium intake to prevent osteoporosis. When cooking, olive oil is often used instead of animal oil, and natural spices such as vanilla and lemon are used for seasoning. Maintain moderate aerobic exercise to promote digestion and absorption, and pay attention to taking a walk after meals to help with gastrointestinal peristalsis. If there is persistent loss of appetite or rapid weight loss, seek medical attention promptly for digestive system diseases.