5 Common Hormonal Changes Women Above 40 Go Through

A whole lot of changes. It's chaotic, hot, and just a bit jumpy, as Radhika, who is forty-five, puts it while 'still figuring it out'. But she adds that knowing what's coming can help you manage menopause and its onset far better. 

One of the most significant hormonal changes after 40 is the decrease in estrogen levels. This drop usually happens during perimenopause and menopause, triggering various shifts in your body. Estrogen is vital for maintaining several body functions, including bone health, skin elasticity, and muscle mass. As estrogen levels dip, you may notice thinning hair, reduced skin elasticity, and increased body fat, especially around the abdomen. 

What Kind Of Hormonal Changes Do Women Above 40 Face?

The reduction in estrogen also significantly impacts muscle mass. Age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, becomes more noticeable as estrogen wanes. This muscle loss can affect strength, metabolism, and even balance, increasing the risk of falls and fractures. Increasing your protein intake can help maintain muscle mass and support overall health during these transitional years. 

Thyroid hormone levels can also fluctuate as women age. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, and any hormonal imbalance can lead to weight gain, fatigue, and other metabolic issues. Proper protein intake can support metabolic function and alleviate some of these effects. 

Insulin sensitivity often decreases with age, elevating the risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Protein helps stabilize blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity, making it a critical nutrient for women over 40 to manage their metabolic health. 

Saroj Bahadur runs a boutique in Ahmedabad. At fifty-two, she works out three times a week, ensures she gets her protein fix five times a week and has read extensively on mood swings. "These changes vary from person to person, but something will affect you. It’s not easy. Knowledge is the key to maintaining your sanity." 

Bahadur adds that the challenge with this phase is unpredictability. "Regular checks and tests are a good idea. Don’t fear its onset; embrace it and prepare for it. Eat well, and eat carefully. Up your protein based on your body's needs and, yes, please exercise." Bahadur recommends Gytree’s plant protein with monkfruit.

Sleep disturbances and mood swings are common, further complicating how you feel day to day. As you approach your 40s, it's essential to consider these hormonal shifts and adapt your diet and lifestyle to support your changing body.