A new study published in the journal Menopause found that replacing animal protein with plant-based sources can lead to weight loss in postmenopausal women, even when total protein consumption remains the same. The study, led by Hana Kahleova, MD, PhD, director of clinical research at the Physicians Committee for Responsible Medicine, tracked 84 postmenopausal women following either a low-fat vegan diet or an omnivorous diet for 12 weeks. Results showed that reducing animal protein intake and increasing plant protein intake led to measurable weight loss.

The study suggests that the amino acid methionine, found in higher concentrations in animal products, may play a role in the metabolic changes seen in the participants. Lower methionine intake was associated with reductions in BMI and improved fat oxidation. Additionally, the vegan diet was also linked to a significant decrease in hot flashes, possibly due to the isoflavones in soy. These findings provide insight into how dietary changes can impact weight loss and alleviate menopausal symptoms in postmenopausal women.