Why Does IBS Often Worsen During Menopause?
Many women notice their digestive symptoms intensify in their late 40s and 50s. Bloating becomes more persistent. Bowel habits fluctuate more dramatically. Sleep becomes lighter and more fragmented.
While hormonal shifts are central, the gut microbiome may also be playing a role.
One emerging area of research focuses on microbial metabolites known as short-chain fatty acids.
The Role of Short-Chain Fatty Acids (SCFAs)
When gut bacteria ferment dietary fibre, they produce:
Acetate
A systemic energy source involved in metabolic signalling.
Propionate
Influences liver metabolism and glucose regulation.
Butyrate
The most clinically significant for midlife gut health:
- Maintains gut lining integrity
- Modulates inflammatory pathways
- Supports immune regulation
- Influences circadian rhythm gene activity
This circadian interaction may help explain why gut symptoms and sleep disturbances often occur together.
Evidence from a 12-Week Study
A 12-week placebo-controlled study evaluating sodium butyrate supplementation demonstrate