Menopause in the Workplace – How Nutrition Talks Can Support Your Team

As a nutritionist who regularly delivers corporate wellbeing talks, I have seen how important it is to address menopause in the workplace. A corporate menopause nutrition talk is one of the simplest ways to support employees during this life stage and give them practical tools to manage symptoms at work.

Menopause is a significant life stage for many employees, yet it is still often missing from workplace wellbeing strategies. When this happens, the impact on health, confidence and performance can be considerable.

Workplace nutrition talks are a practical way to support menopausal employees. They help normalise the conversation, offer clear information and give women realistic tools they can start using straight away. In this post, I outline how nutrition fits into menopause support at work and what my talk Nutrition for the Menopause covers.

You can find more information about my corporate nutrition talks and workplace wellbeing workshops

Why menopause is a workplace issue

Menopause is not only a personal health experience. It is also a workplace topic. Symptoms such as hot flushes, night sweats, disturbed sleep, brain fog, mood changes and joint pain can all affect daily performance. The NHS provides a helpful overview of common symptoms here.

For some women, these symptoms make it harder to concentrate, participate fully in meetings or feel confident in their role. Many employees also feel uncertain about how much to share, which can lead to people struggling in silence. When organisations acknowledge menopause and offer structured support, it helps reduce stigma and shows employees that their wellbeing is taken seriously.

Supporting menopause at work through nutrition

Nutrition talks are a simple way for employers to add value to their menopause awareness plans. They sit well alongside policy changes, HR guidance and flexible working support.

When I deliver Nutrition for the Menopause as part of a corporate wellbeing programme, the focus is always on realistic, evidence-based strategies. The aim is to help women understand how food can support their symptoms, energy and long-term health without adding pressure or strict rules.

Key themes in a corporate menopause nutrition talk

Although every organisation is different, several themes usually resonate strongly with menopausal employees.

Nutrition for hormone health
We look at how balanced meals support more stable energy and mood. This includes protein, fibre, healthy fats and foods that contain phytoestrogens such as flaxseeds, tofu and lentils.

Managing common symptoms through diet
Blood sugar fluctuations can worsen hot flushes, irritability and fatigue. Building meals that support consistent energy can make a noticeable difference. We also look at caffeine, alcohol and spicy foods and how they may affect symptoms for some individuals.

Bone health and menopause
Falling oestrogen levels can affect bone density. We cover how to include calcium-rich foods, the role of Vitamin D and lifestyle factors that support bone health.

Heart health and metabolic changes
We also explore how menopause can influence cholesterol, metabolism and blood pressure. Heart-supportive nutrition strategies such as increasing fibre and colourful plant foods are practical ways to help.

Weight changes and body image
Many women notice shifts in weight or body composition. We discuss why this can happen and focus on supportive approaches such as meal structure, protein intake and mindful eating rather than restrictive dieting.

Authoritative guidance on menopause is also available through NICE.

Creating a safe and supportive environment

Menopause can feel like a vulnerable topic. In corporate nutrition talks, I create a space that is respectful, inclusive and practical. Employees can ask questions anonymously if they prefer, and the tone is always non-judgemental.

The aim is not perfection. It is to give women tools they can use in everyday life, tailored to their own cultures, needs and preferences.

Support beyond the session

A one-off talk is a helpful starting point, but ongoing support often makes a bigger difference. After Nutrition for the Menopause I provide a factsheet and some recipes. Some organisations also run follow-up Q&A sessions or create internal groups where employees can share experiences.

For companies wanting more tailored support, I also offer individual nutrition consultations for menopausal employees.

The role of employers in menopause support

During menopause, many women are at the peak of their careers. When employers provide support, it becomes easier for staff to stay well, engaged and productive.

Alongside nutrition talks, organisations often consider:

• Clear internal guidance around menopause
• Manager training
• Flexible working options where possible
• Access to occupational health or specialist clinicians

To conclude

As more organisations work to build inclusive, supportive workplaces, it makes sense to include menopause in the conversation. Including a corporate menopause nutrition talk in your wellbeing plans is a practical way to support staff through this transition.

My talk Nutrition for the Menopause works particularly well during Menopause Awareness Month in October or as part of a wider women’s health programme. To learn more, you can visit my workplace wellbeing page or email me at info@sophietrotmannutrition.com. I currently work with over 100 businesses in this way and would be happy to discuss what might suit your team.