A Placebo Randomized Cross-Over Controlled Trial of Inulin Supplementation to Improve Cardiometabolic, Gut, and Vaginal Microbiome in Perimenopausal Women
This study aims to evaluate the effects of 2 weeks of inulin supplementation in perimenopausal women with overweight or obesity. The primary questions this study seeks to answer are: 1. Does 2 weeks of inulin supplementation alter the gut and vaginal estrobolome compared with placebo? 2. Does 2 weeks of inulin supplementation affect cardiovascular health compared with placebo? 3. Does 2 weeks of inulin supplementation affect skeletal muscle health compared with placebo? Researchers will compare inulin with a placebo (a similar-looking supplement that does not contain inulin) to determine whether inulin influences gut and vaginal microbial function, cardiovascular health, and skeletal muscle health during the perimenopausal transition. Participants will: * Take either inulin or a placebo for 2 weeks, followed by a 2- to 4-week washout period, and then switch to the other supplement for an additional 2 weeks. * Attend 8 study visits over approximately 12 to 16 weeks for assessments and sample collection. * Complete weekly phone calls to monitor symptoms, supplement adherence, and dietary intake. * Wear a Fitbit device throughout the study to monitor physical activity.
• Body mass index: 25 - 40 kg/m2;
• Menstrual cycle irregularity (cycle length outside 21 - 35 days or variation \> 7 days) or/and ≥ 2 skipped cycles and interval of ≥ 60 days of amenorrhea; with or without hot flashes or/and night sweats;
• Weight stable within the last 3 months (body weight fluctuations within the 5% of their habitual body weight);
• Spending ≥ 6 hours sitting;
• \< 150 minutes per week (50 minutes per day, 3 days per week OR 30 minutes per day, 5 days per week) of moderate to vigorous structured physical activity (i.e., planned intentional physical activity, not incidental movement).