The role of lifestyle medicine in menopausal health: a review of non-pharmacologic interventions

OBJECTIVE: Menopause, typically occurring between ages 45 and 55 years, is a natural life stage marked by hormonal changes that can affect the symptom burden, quality of life and chronic disease risk. While not a disease, the transition often requires individualized, holistic care. Lifestyle medicine - encompassing healthy eating, physical activity, mental well-being, avoidance of risky substances, restorative sleep and healthy relationships - offers a promising non-pharmacological strategy to optimize health during this period. METHOD: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science (January 2000-December 2024) using the following keywords and combinations: 'menopause', 'lifestyle medicine', 'healthy eating', 'physical activity', 'mental wellbeing', 'avoidance of risky substances', 'restorative sleep', 'healthy relationships', 'weight management', 'chronic disease prevention', 'health equity and access' and 'general health frameworks'. Peer-reviewed human studies in perimenopausal, menopausal or postmenopausal women evaluating one or more lifestyle medicine pillars were included. Data were extracted on study design, population, interventions, outcomes and main findings. RESULTS: Lifestyle medicine interventions were associated with reductions in vasomotor symptoms, improved sleep quality, enhanced mental well-being, healthier weight regulation, and reduced cardiometabolic and osteoporosis risk. Multidisciplinary, person-centered approaches improved adherence and patient-reported outcomes. Strategies were cost-effective, adaptable and beneficial for long-term disease prevention across diverse populations. CONCLUSION: Lifestyle medicine offers a foundational, evidence-based framework for equitable menopause care. Integrating these strategies into clinical guidelines and public health policy can improve quality of care, empower women to manage their health and reduce disparities in access. Collaborative action among healthcare providers, policymakers and communities is essential to maximize impact.