Spanish nutrition agency to review menopause report based on male data

Spain's national food safety agency, AESAN, is set to re-examine a report offering nutritional advice for women during menopause. This review follows criticism from female scientists who pointed out that the report's recommendations were based on studies conducted exclusively on men.

The report, titled 'Food and Menopause: Keys on Nutritional Risks,' was released in March by the agency, which operates under the Ministry of Social Rights, Consumer Affairs and Agenda 2030. It advised women in menopause to consume foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and vitamins B, C, D, and E.

However, scientists from the Spanish Association of Women Researchers and Technologists (AMIT) raised concerns that some recommendations relied on data derived from male subjects without explicit disclosure. AESAN, an autonomous body responsible for health and lifestyle recommendations, has now requested its Scientific Committee to review the report. Agency sources confirmed to elDiario.es that there was an "omission of a warning" regarding the data's origin, which came from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA).

AESAN sources also reiterated the report's own conclusions about the need for additional research to establish specific dietary recommendations for women experiencing menopausal transition and post-menopause. The existing guide aims to help women prevent health issues like bone loss, muscle function decline, cognitive impairment, and cardiovascular problems through appropriate nutrition and regular exercise, which includes aerobic, vigorous, and strength training.