Put down the Kit Kat! And, sink your teeth into a steak! new survey has revealed a surprising truth about women’s nutrition in Australia. And, it’s one that could have long-term health consequences if left unchecked.
Despite nearly half of Aussie women believing they’re consuming enough protein, 51% are actually falling short of the recommended daily intake of 46 grams, according to findings from the global food and nutrition tracking app MyFitnessPal. It’s a silent shortfall that may be going unnoticed, particularly during the hormonal shifts of menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause – times when nutrition is arguably most important.
The data highlights a broader blind spot: over 7 in 10 (71%) women admit they don’t adjust their protein intake across different life stages to match hormonal or physical changes. Older generations are least likely to make dietary adjustments, while younger women – particularly Gen Z – appear more self-aware, with nearly half (49%) in that age group recognising they fall short on daily protein.
“Being a woman isn’t easy – hormonal shifts and life changes mean our nutritional needs are constantly evolving,” says MyFitnessPal ambassador and nutritionist Michaela Sparrow. “It’s essential that Aussie women are actively thinking about making changes that positively affect their health in the long term. It’s easy to fall behind, especially on key nutrients like protein. But doing so can have real consequences, including muscle loss, which becomes more common during and after menopause.”
Protein isn’t just about gym gains – it supports energy, hormone production, immune function and healthy ageing. And over time, a consistent lack can contribute to fatigue, slower recovery and diminished muscle mass, particularly as women enter midlife and beyond.
So what are women consuming when their nutritional needs shift? Cravings remain a constant, with the survey showing chocolate and salty snacks topping the list of most desired foods across life stages. Chocolate is the most craved, with 40% of women reaching for it during their menstrual cycle, 32% during menopause, and 18% during pregnancy. Salty snacks like chips also rank high – craved by 27% of menopausal women, 23% during menstruation, and 16% of expectant mothers.
The list doesn’t stop there. Spicy foods, refreshing snacks, dairy and cold treats were also commonly reported, especially during pregnancy. The data points to a complex and varied relationship between appetite, hormones, and emotional states.
And while hormones are often the driver – 27% of women report stronger cravings during their cycle – emotional triggers like stress also play a significant role. One in four (25%) women say cravings spike when they’re dealing with heightened stress or emotional changes, further blurring the line between body and mind.
“Cravings for foods like chocolate, carbs and chips are very common and often spike due to hormonal shifts, whether it’s your cycle, pregnancy, or menopause,” Michaela says. “These treats can trigger a quick feel-good response in the moment, which is why our bodies reach for them. It’s a natural response, not a lack of willpower.”
For Michaela, the first step is simple: pay attention. And then take action.
“Tracking your nutritional intake, especially as we go through different stages of life, can be a powerful tool to help us understand what we’re giving our bodies and empower us to understand what they truly need to adapt and thrive,” she says. “Whether realising you might be low on iron around your period or not hitting protein goals during busy weeks, these insights help you respond with small, meaningful changes that can help support your health and wellness goals.”
In other words, it’s not about eliminating chocolate – it’s about knowing what your body’s asking for, and responding with intention. With digital tools like MyFitnessPal, women can start closing the gap between awareness and action – one tracked meal, craving, or cycle at a time.