A study from Harvard Medical School highlights the benefits of a plant-based diet for women experiencing menopause. The research indicates that women typically gain an average of 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) annually during this phase, primarily due to declining estrogen levels affecting metabolism and fat distribution. However, those who followed a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains, while minimizing red and processed meats and ultra-processed foods, gained significantly less weight. Over 12 years, the study tracked 38,283 American nurses, revealing that women on the planetary health diet gained about 0.28 kg (0.6 lbs) less annually, translating to a total of 3.4 kg (7.5 lbs) less than those with less healthy diets. Additionally, this diet was associated with a 50% lower risk of developing obesity and a 27% reduced risk of premature death from chronic diseases. The researchers advocate for integrating this dietary guidance into midlife care to enhance women's health during menopause.