Insulin resistance during the menopause
23 July 2024

Insulin resistance during the menopause

As our review of additional hormones which affect our bodies draws to a close. Over the past months, I have tried to cover the most well-known hormones which can impact our bodies during the menopause, however, this list is by no means complete.

No menopausal hormone review would be complete without considering Insulin.

As women approach the menopause our metabolic health can be negatively influenced by the reduction of oestrogen and fluctuations in the release of adrenaline and thyroxine leading to insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance during the menopause can cause fatigue and weight gain, especially around the tummy area, it is also associated with poor concentration. This change in body shape can seriously challenge our confidence and self esteem and can be difficult to reverse. We then get caught up in a cycle of negative self talk which isn’t helped by an inability to concentrate.

But what is the role of insulin?

Once our digestive system has broken down food into micronutrients, protein, and glucose. The glucose which is the body’s fundamental fuel source for cells then travels around the body via the bloodstream bringing cells energy for essential biological processes. When the system is working optimally, insulin acts to direct the cells to absorb the glucose as needed from the blood.

However, when hormone balance becomes dysregulated such as during the menopause insulin resistance can occur, now the muscle, fat and liver cells don’t respond optimally to the released insulin and therefore glucose stays in the blood instead of transferring into the cells.  This is known as insulin resistance which leads to elevated levels of blood glucose which can lead to Prediabetes and Type 2 diabetes.

The good news is that Lifestyle changes can significantly improve blood sugar management:

  • A reduction in consumption of processed food and carbohydrate management to 15 grams a day can help.
  • Consumption of healthy fats, such as avocado, salmon, flaxseeds and eggs.
  • Regular exercise 3-5 times a week, can improve hormone and metabolic balance.
  • Stress reduction can reduce the impact of adrenal function on insulin levels.