Comparison of nutritional, biochemical and anthropometric measures as comparative risk factors between young and postmenopausal women

Objective: To determine the differences between young women and postmenopausal women in terms of bone mineral density, body composition, physical activity, nutrition; and levels of serum leptin, homocysteine, folate and blood lipids. Methodology: This descriptive study was carried out on 60 young women and 45 postmenopausal women. It was designed to include anthropometric measurements, biochemical analyses, bone mineral density, nutritional assessment and calculation of energy expenditure. Results: Cholesterol, triglyceride, homocysteine, leptin and folate levels of postmenopausal women were found to be significantly higher than those of young women (p<0.05). The daily energy intake from foods and daily energy consumption levels of the postmenopausal women were higher than those of young women (p<0.05). Daily amounts of protein, thiamine and riboflavin consumed by the postmenopausal women were also higher than those of the women (p<0.05). Conclusion: Age is an important parameter affecting body composition, energy and nutrient intakes. Young women and postmenopausal women are significant risk groups in terms of nutrition and health. It is suggested that some nutritional recommendations specific to young women and postmenopausal women should be formulated.