Poor nutrition during pregnancy has been linked to menopause, study claims

Here’s another reason pregnant women should eat healthily while they are expecting, as scientists say there’s a link between poor nutrition during pregnancy and early menopause.

A new study, which was published in the journal Menopause, has found that a bad diet during foetal development could lead to early menopause at the age of 45 or younger.

Poor nutrition during pregnancy can advance menopause, claim scientists

Researchers looked at nearly 2,900 Chinese women and specifically looked to address the effect of malnutrition on menopause.

“The findings showed that food deprivation during early foetal life affects how long the future ovaries function,” said Joann Pinkerton, executive director from the North American Menopause Society (NAMS).

Experts also found that prenatal malnutrition is associated with a higher risk of premature ovarian failure, and other studies show it is also linked to metabolic diseases, heart disease and diabetes.

When does menopause usually occur?

Menopause is defined as when menstrual periods have ceased for at least a year. 

If that happens earlier than the expected age of around 50 years old it is called premature or early menopause. This may be due to primary ovarian insufficiency.

According to experts, early menopause is associated with an increased risk of depression, osteoporosis, heart disease, memory changes and changes in vaginal and sexual health.

Nearly one in 10 women experience premature menopause before the age of 40 in Australia.

Women with early menopause have been linked to women who begin their periods earlier

Woman who went through menopause at 23 is expecting twins thanks to her sister

The Healthy Mummy Pregnancy Smoothies

Are you currently pregnant? Then you should try our yummy Healthy Mummy Pregnancy Smoothie.

The Healthy Mummy Pregnancy Smoothie is designed to complement, not replace, your prenatal vitamin intake. Our nutritionists ensured that the vitamins and minerals in the smoothie are at a low level so there is no risk of doubling up on any pregnancy vitamins.

You can learn more about our Pregnancy Smoothie here.