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Dietary Patterns and Menopausal Health: A Comprehensive Literature Review


Authors : Dr. Kulsum Ahmed; Dr. Bashayer Khan

Volume/Issue : Volume 11 - 2026, Issue 5 - May


Google Scholar : https://tinyurl.com/ynfmrbe4

Scribd : https://tinyurl.com/4ex7kv4v

DOI : https://doi.org/10.38124/ijisrt/26May674

Note : A published paper may take 4-5 working days from the publication date to appear in PlumX Metrics, Semantic Scholar, and ResearchGate.


Abstract : Menopause represents a natural physiological transition marked by permanent cessation of menstruation and ovarian estrogen depletion, resulting in systemic effects on vasomotor regulation, metabolic processes, bone health, cardiovascular function, and psychological well-being. Dietary modification is a safe, non-pharmacological intervention that plays a central role in managing menopausal symptoms and reducing long-term disease risks. Evidence indicates that Mediterranean dietary patterns, phytoestrogen-rich foods, anti-inflammatory diets, and targeted micronutrient optimization improve vasomotor symptoms, bone mineral density, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health. According to Unani medicine, menopause is aligned with Sin-e-Sheikhookhat (ageing), characterised by decline in Harārat-e-Gharīziyya (innate heat), predominance of Barid-Yābis Mizāj (cold-dry temperament), and weakening of functional faculties. Unani dietotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Ghiza) emphasises consumption of warm, moist, temperament-balancing foods (Murattib Ghiza) to counter tissue dryness and preserve vitality. A Strong convergence was observed between traditional Unani dietary principles and evidence-based nutritional science. An integrative dietary framework is proposed to support menopausal health through culturally adaptable, safe, and holistic dietary strategies.

Keywords : Menopause, Diet, Mediterranean Diet, Phytoestrogens, Unani, Ghiza Perimenopause.

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Menopause represents a natural physiological transition marked by permanent cessation of menstruation and ovarian estrogen depletion, resulting in systemic effects on vasomotor regulation, metabolic processes, bone health, cardiovascular function, and psychological well-being. Dietary modification is a safe, non-pharmacological intervention that plays a central role in managing menopausal symptoms and reducing long-term disease risks. Evidence indicates that Mediterranean dietary patterns, phytoestrogen-rich foods, anti-inflammatory diets, and targeted micronutrient optimization improve vasomotor symptoms, bone mineral density, lipid metabolism, insulin sensitivity, and overall metabolic health. According to Unani medicine, menopause is aligned with Sin-e-Sheikhookhat (ageing), characterised by decline in Harārat-e-Gharīziyya (innate heat), predominance of Barid-Yābis Mizāj (cold-dry temperament), and weakening of functional faculties. Unani dietotherapy (Ilaj-bil-Ghiza) emphasises consumption of warm, moist, temperament-balancing foods (Murattib Ghiza) to counter tissue dryness and preserve vitality. A Strong convergence was observed between traditional Unani dietary principles and evidence-based nutritional science. An integrative dietary framework is proposed to support menopausal health through culturally adaptable, safe, and holistic dietary strategies.

Keywords : Menopause, Diet, Mediterranean Diet, Phytoestrogens, Unani, Ghiza Perimenopause.

Paper Submission Last Date
31 - May - 2026

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