Unmasking the Hidden Links: Menopause, Andropause, and the Metabolic Puzzle. A Narrative Review

Aging is an inherent aspect of human life and is characterized by a plethora of physiological changes that occur within the body. One notable manifestation of aging is the onset of menopause in women and andropause in men, resulting in significant hormonal imbalances. During these transitional phases, the maintenance of optimal health and prevention of chronic diseases and metabolic imbalances are of utmost importance. Consequently, nutritional and dietary interventions have emerged as pivotal factors substantial in promoting healthy aging and mitigating the risk of these conditions. The aim of this literature review was to comprehensively explore the current understanding of the role of hormonal imbalances in metabolic disorders, with a specific emphasis on menopause and andropause. These life stages are known for their hormonal fluctuations that can have a significant impact on metabolic health. Nutritional and dietary interventions have gained attention as potential adjunctive treatments for imbalanced hormones and their associated metabolic consequences. By examining the available evidence, this review seeks to identify and evaluate the effectiveness of specific interventions and provide evidence-based recommendations for health-care professionals and individuals seeking alternative approaches to optimize metabolic health during menopause and andropause.