THE REFINED FIT

Menopause can feel like your body suddenly switches the rules—especially when it comes to weight. Even women who have stayed active and eaten well for years may notice weight creeping up, particularly around the abdomen. This shift is common, normal, and heavily influenced by hormonal changes—but that doesn’t make it any less frustrating. As estrogen declines, it affects metabolism, muscle mass, fat distribution, insulin sensitivity, mood, sleep, and hunger cues. These change

Menopause marks a major transition in a woman’s life—physically, mentally, and emotionally. While it is a natural biological process, the fluctuating hormones that lead to the end of menstruation can bring uncomfortable symptoms such as hot flashes, weight changes, sleep disruptions, mood swings, and shifts in metabolism.

Introduction As we move into middle age (roughly ages 40–65, though individual variation applies), our bodies undergo gradual changes in metabolism, hormone levels, muscle mass, and nutrient absorption. One of the most underappreciated but critical dietary factors during this life stage is protein. Getting protein right in middle age can help slow age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia), support metabolism, maintain bone health, and even influence longevity and disease risk. In