top of page
Writer's pictureDr. Rochelle Bernstein

What's Up With My Guts?

Updated: Dec 22, 2022

Menopause results in many changes within a woman's body, including disruptions in the gut. Evidence shows that reduced estrogen in menopausal women changes the gut microbiome (the types and amounts of bacteria in your digestive system.) Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes bacteria make up approximately 90% of your gut microbiome and are responsible for carbohydrate metabolism. They also participate in energy production and conversion, amino acid transport and metabolism, and production of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs). Maintaining Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes at the right balance in the gut is important.


In menopause, there is an increase in Firmicutes. The resultant imbalance in the microbiome increases inflammation, slows metabolism, and has been linked with obesity. These microbiome changes also are associated with multiple menopause-related symptoms to include weight gain, brain fog, and poor sleep quality.


In good news, simple changes in diet can restore the gut microbiome balance. Fruits and vegetables contain polyphenols, which have been shown to express prebiotic properties and exert anti-inflammatory properties. Be cautious about taking probiotics since different probiotics exert different effects on the Firmicutes/Bacteriodetes ratio and may make the situation worse.


Bottom line: menopausal women need to make special effort to eat fruits and vegetables in all colors of the rainbow and more often than during their reproductive years to maintain gut microbiome balance.


Fruits and Vegetables

Disclaimer - Information on this website is provided for informational purposes only. The information is a result of years of practical experience and formal training by the author. This information is not intended as a substitute for the advice provided by your physician or other healthcare professional or any information contained in any product label or packaging. Do not use the information on this website for diagnosing or treating a health problem or disease, or prescribing medication, or other treatment. Always speak with your physician or other health care professional before taking any medication or nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplement, or using any treatment for a health problem. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, contact your healthcare provider promptly. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking professional advice because of something you have read on this website. Information provided on this website and the use of any products or services mentioned on this website by you do not create a doctor-patient relationship between you and any of the physicians affiliated with this website. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.




82 views0 comments

Comentarios

Obtuvo 0 de 5 estrellas.
Aún no hay calificaciones

Agrega una calificación
bottom of page