Comparison of nutrient intakes in menopausal and perimenopausal women Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS)

¯Abstract Background: Regarding the increasing number of women suffering from one or more chronic disease-associated risk factors following the cessation of their reproductive cycle, it is necessary to consider their needs over nutrient intake and lifestyle. Objective: To compare the nutrient intakes in menopausal and perimenopausal women. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study in which a total of 96 women (47 in menopausal and 49 in perimenopausal periods), aged 45 and over with no hormone therapy, were enrolled. The study was conducted within the framework of the TLGS, using anthropometric assessments and a 24-hour dietary recall for 2 days. Anthropometric indices were measured, using standard protocols. Mean intakes of nutrients were compared with EAR and DRI recommendations. The mean differences between two groups were analyzed for any statistical significance using a two-tailed unpaired student’s t-test or a Mann-Whitney test whenever the assumption of normality was not met. Findings: Waist to hip ratio for the menopausal women was higher than perimenopausal group (p<0.01). The menopausal group consumed less fat (p<0.01) and more fiber (p<0.05) than did the perimenopausal subjects (28% and 10±1 g/d vs. 32% and 7±2 g/d for fat and fiber, respectively). Mean intake of vitamin C, thiamin, riboflavin, manganese, phosphorus, and potassium were within the optimal ranges for both groups. However, the mean intake of magnesium, copper, zinc, calcium, pyridoxine and vitamin D were lower than recommendations for menopausal and perimenopausal women, respectively (97 and 98% for magnesium, 91 and 92% for copper 89 and 94% for zinc 93 and 91% for calcium 93 and 98% for pyridoxine 61 and 50% for vitamin D). Conclusion: Menopausal women met the recommendations for the nutrient intakes better than perimenopausal women, although both groups were found to have insufficient nutrient intakes.