The Role of Estrogen in Adipocyte Remodeling Following Surgical Menopause

Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy females * Ages 18-45 y * BMI between 25 kg/m2 and 40 kg/m2 (±0.5 kg/m2 will be accepted) * Are pre-menopausal (follicle-stimulating hormone, FSH\<40 mIU/mL) * Asymptomatic for the following menopause-related symptoms: hot flashes, insomnia (trouble sleeping), or mood swings * Planning to have a laparoscopically, elective bilateral oophorectomy * No medical indication for increased cancer risk * Are willing to drink heavy water (2H2O) over an 8-week period * Medically cleared for participation in the study by OB/GYN and Medical Investigator * Are willing to have blood and fat tissue stored for future use Exclusion Criteria: * Unstable weight in the last 3 months \[gain or loss \>7 lb (or 3.2 kg)\] * Significant changes in diet or physical activity level within the past month * Smoking or use of tobacco products within the last 3 months * Amenorrhea (or absence of regular monthly cycles) * History of clinically diagnosed diabetes or a fasting blood glucose \>126 mg/dL * Average screening blood pressure \>140/90 mmHg * Chronic use of systemic glucocorticoids, systemic adrenergic-stimulating agents, antipsychotic/antidepressant medications, thiazolidinediones, and other medications that cause clinically significant weight gain, weight loss or are known to make changes in fat cell number/size. * Previous bariatric surgery (or other surgeries) for obesity or weight loss * Use of over the counter or prescription weight loss products * History of meta…