Postprandial metabolic and inflammatory responses in women: impact of aging and menopause

Author(s)

Amanda Domingos Vasconcelos

• Document type: Master's Dissertation
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Conjunto das Químicas (IQ e FCF) (CQ/DBDCQ)
• Defense date: 2024-08-30

Examining board members

Jarlei Fiamoncini; Maria Fernanda Cury Boaventura; Eliana Bistriche Giuntini; Thomas Prates Ong

• Advisor: Jarlei Fiamoncini

Abstract

The increase in the population\'s life expectancy is a phenomenon observed globally. It is accompanied by an increase in the incidence of chronic non-communicable diseases, which primarily manifest in elderly individuals. Female aging is accompanied by menopause, a natural and inseparable process from advanced age in women, usually beginning in the fourth decade of life. This phase is characterized by a decrease in follicular ovarian activity, which leads to endocrine and metabolic changes, inducing changes in body composition and intermediary metabolism, which can compromise responses in intermediate metabolism. The postprandial period include the first hours after food intake, when processes such as food digestion, absorption and distribution of nutrients, as well as changes in cellular metabolism take place to adapt to the incoming supply of nutrients. To understand the influence of menopause/aging in these processes, this study evaluated and compared postprandial biochemical and inflammatory parameters in postmenopausal (PM) and women of reproductive age (RA). Forty-four women were recruited, divided into two groups (PM and RA), who underwent a food challenge after 10 hours of fasting. The PM group tends to be overweight and has a more significant accumulation of visceral fat associated with increased risks of cardiometabolic diseases. Dietary analysis indicated lower energy and fat intake in PM, but this did not translate into a more favorable metabolic profile. In the postprandial period, higher serum levels of glucose and lipids were observed in the PM group, reinforcing the predisposition to chronic non-communicable diseases. Furthermore, increased gene expression of inflammatory markers and changes in plasma cytokine levels in PM highlight a pro-inflammatory state, possibly linked to menopause and aging. These findings demonstrate the need for adjusted dietary and lifestyle approaches to mitigate chronic disease risks in this population. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 22/08109-0 - Evaluation of the aging effects on postprandial responses: comparison between reproductive-age and postmenopausal women.
• Grantee: Amanda Domingos Vasconcelos
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master