Can Pasta Trigger Menopause?

Fettucine Carbonara Tastes So Good, But Now Its Suggested That Pasta AndOther Refined Carbohydrates Could Bring On An Early End To Your Menstrual Cycle

- Natalia Lubomirski

Whatever our age, we all know that a diet high in refined carbohydrates – such as white bread, pasta and rice – isn’t the best for us. It can pile on the pounds during our 20s, 30s and 40s, and even put us at risk of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. But, it turns out, it could also be responsible for bringing on menopause prematurely. So why is a bowl of tagliatelle to blame?

We look at the research and speak to nutritionist Dr Marilyn Glenville to find out more.

THE PROBLEM WITH PASTA

When the experts say to eat a Mediterranean diet, sadly they don’t mean bowls of Bolognese. And the latest research from the University of Leeds has revealed that eating large amounts of white pasta and rice could bring menopause forward by one and a half years. The average age for this hormonal change is 51, meaning women could be suffering from symptoms in their 40s.

“It’s thought that refined carbohydrates cause problems with blood sugar and insulin resistance,” explains Dr Glenville.

“This could lead to your egg supply running out faster,” she adds. And the end of egg production signals the start of menopause.

WHY DOES IT MATTER?