In the midst of the plethora of dietary trends inundating social media platforms, one expert’s advice stands out for its clarity and concern for women’s health. Ekam Grewal, a renowned Physical Therapist and Director of Body by Ekam, recently shared insights addressing readers through GB News, highlighting the potential dangers associated with eliminating carbohydrates, particularly for menopausal women. Grewal’s cautionary stance sheds light on the delicate balance required in managing diet during a period marked by significant physiological changes.
Carbohydrates play a crucial role in women’s health, especially during menopause, contrary to the negative portrayal often seen in the dieting world. Grewal emphasizes that carbohydrates are essential for bone health, a critical concern for women experiencing menopause due to declining estrogen levels. Estrogen, vital for maintaining bone density, diminishes during menopause, making carbohydrate intake even more pivotal. Additionally, carbohydrates support bone metabolism, aiding in weight management and the prevention of osteoporosis.
Despite the allure of rapid weight loss, Grewal and the British Menopause Society warn against drastic measures such as eliminating entire food groups. Such actions not only jeopardize bone health but also impact overall metabolism and muscle mass maintenance. Undereating or adhering to restrictive diets can lead to nutritional deficiencies, compromising gut health and complicating weight management efforts. Instead, emphasis should be placed on adopting a balanced diet comprising healthy fats, proteins, and notably, carbohydrates to uphold overall health and well-being during menopause.
Grewal’s advice advocates for a balanced and sustainable approach to dieting, diverging from the narrative often rife with misinformation and extreme measures. Encouraging the consumption of a diverse range of foods ensures the intake of essential nutrients and supports gut health, critical for weight management and overall well-being during menopause. Rather than fixating on the elimination of specific food groups, which can have adverse effects, the focus should be on maintaining a varied diet that caters to individual nutritional needs.
As society grapples with the intricacies of diet and health, guidance from experts like Ekam Grewal serves as a beacon of reason. It underscores the importance of comprehending the unique requirements of our bodies during different life stages and the perils of adhering to one-size-fits-all dietary fads. For menopausal women, prioritizing health and well-being entails embracing a balanced and nutrient-rich diet. Such an approach not only bolsters bone health and metabolism but also fosters a positive relationship with food, ensuring long-term health benefits extending beyond weight management.