Insulin Levels May Predict Timing and Duration of Menopausal Vasomotor Symptoms

A woman’s insulin levels in midlife are linked to the timing and duration of menopausal hot flashes, night sweats and cold sweats, according to new research from the University of Victoria (UVic). The study found that having higher insulin levels at age 47 predicted younger onsets of hot flashes and night sweats,” says Faria Athar, lead author of the study, which is published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism .

“Higher insulin at age 47 was also associated with longer durations of hot flashes and cold sweats, and a rise in testosterone levels across the menopausal transition. Hot flashes, night sweats and cold sweats — collectively referred to as vasomotor symptoms — affect around 75% of women during the menopausal transition.

These symptoms can appear two years before a woman’s final menstrual period and persist for as long as 10 years beyond it. They dramatically impact women’s quality of life.

It is hard to present at a board meeting while experiencing a sudden sensation of feverish warmth, with a face turning beet red.