Menopause and Body Composition: A Complex Field.

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Endocrinology
• Metabolic Health
• Body Composition Analysis

Background:

• Menopause affects approximately 50% of the global midlife population.
• Body composition changes during menopause can negatively impact metabolic health.
• Traditional menopausal symptomology often overshadows crucial body composition shifts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the influence of menopause on skeletal muscle and adipose tissue.
• To explore the mechanisms driving menopausal body composition changes.
• To consider interventions like hormone therapy and exercise.

Main Methods:

• Narrative review of existing literature.
• Analysis of changes in skeletal muscle mass and strength.
• Examination of adipose tissue gain and redistribution, including visceral adiposity.

Main Results:

• Menopause is associated with a decline in muscle mass and strength.
• Significant gain and redistribution of adipose tissue occur, particularly increased visceral fat.
• Mechanisms remain unclear, with ongoing debate on hormonal vs. aging/lifestyle factors.
• The effect of menopause on resting energy expenditure is debated.

Conclusions:

• Menopausal body composition changes require further longitudinal study.
• Clarifying mechanisms is essential for targeted health strategies.
• Hormonal shifts, aging, energy balance, and lifestyle all likely play roles.
• Menopausal hormone therapy and exercise may mitigate adverse changes.