There is a lot going on in your body during menopause and you may experience several different symptoms, but your weight may also change. Many women gain weight during and after the menopause. When you experience a sudden weight gain during menopause, it can be difficult to understand why your body is changing. Learn more about menopause and weight here!
Why is weight gain common during menopause?
If you experience weight gain during the menopause, it may be because your metabolism slows down and the distribution of fat in your body changes. It is not due to a decrease in oestrogen, which is the cause of many other menopausal symptoms. Before menopause, fat is mostly stored on the thighs and buttocks, but after menopause, more fat is stored around the waist and organs. It is therefore common to have more fat around the belly post menopause.Problems that can arise from being overweight during menopause include an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure.
Effective weight loss in menopause
If you want to lose or stabilise your weight during menopause, you can try eating LCHF or keto to keep your insulin levels low. If you don't want to go on a diet, make sure you get enough protein to maintain your muscle mass and avoid snacking too much.You can also focus on strength training, which is not only good for weight loss during the menopause, but also for maintaining muscle mass, which decreases with age, and strengthening your joints, which can become stiffer during the menopause. It's also important to take care of your mental health, perhaps most importantly, so you can actually cope with everyday life and exercise! Stress and poor sleep can also affect your weight. Do relaxation exercises like yoga and meditation to manage stress better and make sure you prioritise your sleep. Get tips on how to deal with menopausal sleep problems here.
As a final reminder, a little fat is not the worst thing in the world! The body is constantly changing and there are many changes during menopause. Take time to accept your new body and praise it for getting you through life, hugs <3