Menopause is a natural biological milestone that marks the end of a woman’s menstrual cycle, usually occurring between the ages of 45 and 55. While hot flashes, mood swings, and vaginal dryness are well-known signs of this transition, menopause brings with it a host of other physical and mental changes that are often overlooked.
In a recent Instagram post, renowned nutritionist Pooja Makhija shed light on some lesser-discussed symptoms that many women experience during menopause. She explained that the hormonal shifts during this phase can lead to uncomfortable digestive issues such as bloating, acidity, and gastric discomfort. Additionally, many women notice an increase in belly fat—an effect driven largely by changes in estrogen levels.
“During menopause, our body shifts its fat storage patterns,” Makhija shared. “Earlier, it may have been more common to store fat around the hips. But now, the body begins to store more fat around the abdomen. This is because, as the ovaries reduce their production of estradiol, the body relies on fat tissue to produce estrone, which is then converted into estradiol to help compensate for the declining hormone levels. Fat cells also have estrogen receptors, and with fluctuating estrogen, the body adapts by increasing visceral fat—especially around the belly.”
Beyond physical changes, menopause also has a noticeable impact on cognitive function. Brain fog becomes a common complaint. “Your thoughts feel sluggish, words don’t flow like they used to, and multitasking becomes a challenge,” said Makhija. “You may know what you want to say, but the right phrase just doesn’t come at the right time. It can feel like you’re mentally lost.”
Other surprising symptoms can include breath soreness and a burning sensation in the mouth—unpleasant but very real experiences for many women navigating this life stage.
Despite these challenges, research—and Makhija—emphasize that menopausal women still perform impressively well cognitively. In fact, even amidst hormonal upheaval, they often outperform men of the same age in memory, verbal fluency, and attention to detail. “An average menopausal woman can still match or surpass her male counterpart in these areas—even though men don’t experience a menopause of their own,” she noted.
Final Thoughts
Menopause is more than just the end of a reproductive cycle—it’s a transformative period that affects nearly every part of a woman’s body and mind. While the symptoms can be challenging, understanding what’s happening and why can make the journey smoother. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, don’t hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for personalized advice and support.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment.
