Spanish Nutrition Agency to Review Menopause Report Based on Male Data

The Spanish Agency for Food Safety and Nutrition (AESAN) is set to revise a report on dietary recommendations for women during menopause. This review follows criticism from scientists who pointed out that the report's findings were based on data derived exclusively from studies conducted on men.

Published in March, the report titled 'Nutrition and Menopause: Keys on Nutritional Risks' advised women in this life stage to consume foods rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, and various vitamins. However, scientists from the Spanish Association of Women Researchers and Technologists (AMIT) highlighted that some recommendations were extrapolated from male-centric studies without explicit disclosure.

AESAN, an autonomous body providing health and nutrition guidance, has acknowledged the "omission of a warning" concerning the data's source, which originated from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The agency has requested its Scientific Committee to re-examine the report. Sources within AESAN emphasized the need for additional research to establish specific, tailored recommendations for women experiencing menopausal transition and post-menopause. The agency also reiterated the report's existing advice on regular physical activity, including moderate aerobic exercise and strength training.