Skip to content

From 2 episodes and 3 videos

What are the best macros for weight loss during menopause?

Answered by Nikkiey Stott and WarriorBabe's coaches · Updated

The short answer

WarriorBabe's menopause macros run slightly higher in fat, because the coaches say fat is the one macronutrient that directly supports hormones. One video gives 35% protein, 27% carbs and 38% fat; another gives 40% protein, 30% carbs and 30% fat. Neither is keto. Both keep protein high and keep carbs in the plan.

Hear it answered

Tap play to start right where it's answered. It keeps playing while you browse.

  1. A coach's 35/27/38 menopause macro split and why it isn't keto

    Plays from 1:48 · Video: Menopause Belly Fat Grocery List: What to Buy and Skip

  2. Nikkiey on whether postmenopausal women need higher fat and lower carbs

    Plays from 12:20 · Video: Training Less After Menopause: Why Less Can Be More

  3. A coach shares the 40/30/30 split for energy, recovery and fat loss

    Plays from 5:06 · Video: 5 Fat Loss Lies Women Over 40 Believe: Cardio, Carbs, Age

  4. Nikkiey on getting your macros set and adjusted by a professional

    Plays from 7:34 · Ep. 67: How to Build Muscle and Lose Fat During Menopause

The full answer

The two splits differ, and that is worth knowing. One WarriorBabe coach shares 35% protein, 27% carbs and 38% fat, and points out that keto would put carbs at something like 10%, which would make it harder to build muscle. Another video gives 40% protein, 30% carbs and 30% fat, described as balanced and sustainable, supporting energy, muscle recovery and fat loss without burnout. What they share: protein stays high, fat is slightly elevated for hormone support, and carbs are never slashed.

Nikkiey adds an important layer. Asked whether postmenopausal women need higher fat and lower carbs, she says there are no specific dietary restrictions or added needs for that stage. The real priority is eating enough food to fuel recovery, so your body isn't under added stress from too little fuel. One coach makes the same point about 1,200-calorie diets: eating too little after 40 can push your body into survival mode, and cutting carbs too low can leave you tired, moody and losing muscle instead of fat. If you've been starving yourself and stalling, that was the plan, not you.

Percentages are a starting point, not a prescription. On Ep. 67, Nikkiey says the best way to tailor your macros is to work with a professional who sets your starting numbers and adjusts them as you go. She also explains why tracking helps during menopause:

  • It gives you the right balance of nutrients for muscle growth and fat loss as hormones shift.
  • It keeps you accountable and shows where you fall short, like low protein.
  • It gives you a clear, measurable way to stay consistent.

For workouts, Nikkiey suggests around 20 grams of protein and 30 grams of carbs before and after training as a good starting point. If you have a medical condition or take medication, work with your doctor alongside any macro plan.

From WarriorBabe's coaches (how we write our answers). For education, not medical advice: talk to your doctor about your own health.

Part of

Menopause & Perimenopause Weight Loss →

Women also ask

More questions →
  • Menopause & Perimenopause Weight Loss

    What should a menopause weight loss plan include?

    A menopause weight loss plan should be built on strength training three to four times a week, enough food with protein throughout the day, balanced carbs and fats, and real recovery. The show is clear on what to leave out: crash dieting, endless cardio and six-day training weeks that keep your body in survival mode.

    Read the answer →

  • Menopause & Perimenopause Weight Loss

    Should I eat fewer carbs during menopause?

    Moderately, yes, but not to keto levels. Nikkiey explains that WarriorBabe lowers carbs and raises fats during perimenopause and menopause because insulin resistance changes how your body handles carbs, using a split of 35% protein, 27% carbs and 38% fat. Carbs are never eliminated, and guest Louise Digby warns that going too low can slow your metabolism.

    Read the answer →

  • Menopause & Perimenopause Weight Loss

    Do I need to do cardio to lose weight in menopause?

    No. WarriorBabe's coaches say cardio isn't what drives fat loss in menopause, and leaning on it can backfire. They explain that too much cardio spikes cortisol and burns muscle, especially in a calorie deficit. What they recommend instead is strength training as the foundation, plus enough protein, daily walking and proper recovery.

    Read the answer →

Watch or listen in full

More on this topic →

Free Body
Transformation Assessment

Apply now