By Lew Kizer — 2026-10-07 — Health & Nutrition
The short answer
In a subgroup analysis of the ATTAIN-1 and ATTAIN-2 trials presented at the EASD 2026 meeting, women taking orforglipron (brand name Foundayo) lost up to 14% of body weight over 72 weeks, with similar results in premenopausal, perimenopausal and postmenopausal groups. Up to 83% reached at least 5% weight loss, compared with 30% on placebo. The analysis was conducted by the drug's maker, Eli Lilly.
Key facts
- Presented at the European Association for the Study of Diabetes meeting in Milan, Sept. 28–Oct. 2, 2026.
- Pooled women from ATTAIN-1 (no diabetes) and ATTAIN-2 (type 2 diabetes), 142 to 225 per menopause group.
- Weight loss up to 14% and waist reduction up to 12.5 cm, similar across menopause stages.
- Up to 83% on orforglipron reached 5% or more weight loss vs. 30% on placebo.
- Foundayo is a once-daily pill that, per its label, can be taken without food or water restrictions.
- Sponsored by Eli Lilly; conference data are preliminary.
KINGSPORT, Tenn., Oct. 7, 2026 — Menopause changes how the body stores fat and how hard it is to lose it. A new analysis of Eli Lilly's oral GLP-1 orforglipron, sold as Foundayo, suggests the medication's effect held steady across menopause stages.
This article reports research and is not medical advice.
What the analysis found
Researchers grouped women from the ATTAIN-1 and ATTAIN-2 trials as premenopausal, perimenopausal or postmenopausal. After 72 weeks, women on orforglipron lost up to 14% of body weight and up to 12.5 cm (about 5 inches) of waist circumference, with similar results in each group. Up to 83% reached at least 5% weight loss, compared with 30% on placebo. The data were presented at the EASD annual meeting in Milan and have not yet appeared as a full peer-reviewed paper.
The food question for midlife women
Falling estrogen is associated with muscle and bone loss, and appetite-lowering medication can make it harder to eat enough protein. That is why professional guidance for people on GLP-1 medicines keeps returning to protein, fiber, hydration and strength training. Practical help: meals with protein already built in, portions sized for a smaller appetite, and posted nutrition so you can check against your plan.
See our menopause and midlife nutrition guide, our earlier explainer on Foundayo and mealtime, and the GLP-1 meal plan.
Commentary, not medical advice
The SmashMeals perspective
Midlife women tell us the same thing over and over: the old rules stopped working. If a medication now works similarly across menopause stages, the food question shifts to protecting muscle and bone while appetite is lower. That means protein at every meal, enough fiber, and portions you can actually finish. We are a kitchen, not a clinic, so pair this with guidance from your own care team.
Frequently asked questions
Does Foundayo work after menopause?
In this manufacturer-sponsored analysis, weight loss was similar across premenopausal, perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, up to 14% over 72 weeks. Individual results vary; talk with your prescriber.
Do I need to time meals around Foundayo?
Foundayo's labeling allows it to be taken without the food and water restrictions that apply to oral semaglutide. Follow your prescriber's and pharmacist's instructions.
What should midlife women eat on a GLP-1?
Clinical guidance generally emphasizes adequate protein, fiber, hydration and nutrient-dense foods when appetite drops, along with resistance exercise to help protect lean mass. Your care team can set specific targets.
Sources & experts referenced
Sources are included for verification. No expert listed here endorses SmashMeals.
- New diabetes pill orforglipron achieves uniform weight loss for women of all ages — News-Medical
Why it matters: Summary of the EASD 2026 presentation and its numbers. - Foundayo: Oral GLP-1 Demonstrated Up to 14% Weight Loss for All Women — Healthline
Why it matters: Independent coverage with expert context, published Oct. 6, 2026.