Contrary to what many women believe, menopause doesn’t automatically lead to weight gain.
Do you suffer with excess weight during menopause?
Estrogen redirects the process of fat storage in women from the hips to the abdomen, according to a review from the International Menopause Society. This change in the location of accumulating fat isn’t just cosmetic. It also increases women’s risk of diabetes and heart disease.
The reviewers further noted that, at midlife, women tend to gain an average of a pound a year (0,45 kilos) which they attributed to advancing age and environmental factors.
Is it all about the hormones?
Over time, these gains in weight can add up to overweight and obesity, both of which are associated with health problems including depression, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and diabetes. However, most women don´t see it coming, they suddenly realise they are gaining weight and are not sure why.
However, If we are being honest with ourselves, the weight gain so many women experience after menopause can’t be blamed entirely on hormonal changes. The fact is, as we get older, we need fewer calories because there’s a shift in body composition from lean muscle mass to fat and a consequent slowdown in metabolism.
The two key things you need to take care of
First, if you want to maintain your weight as you get older and avoid weight gain, then you cannot simply consume the same number of calories. So what is suggested is that you have to cut back your food intake by about 200 calories per day. Because menopause is often a stressful time and that increases your chance to overeat, or not eat wisely. Comfort eating to help with the mood swings, some alcohol to help you relax – all can give temporary relief, but they do mount up the calories.
Secondly you need to increase the amount of activity and exercise you regularly take. There is ample evidence that suggests that regular exercise prevents what women view as menopause weight gain is just the natural slowing down in the amount of physical activity they undertake. Walking every day is an ideal way to get moving, and in the morning gentle stretching is just perfect for women in menopause.
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Not only your weight can benefit from increased activity, exercise is particularly important for other reasons: stretching and walking can keep your bones and heart strong and also lower your risk of breast cancer. Regular physical activity may also help reduce hot flushes, depression, sharpen your thinking, and promote good sleep.
Watch this informative video to give you some ideas
If you find this too energetic, then try this one: Gentle Stretching with Schellea
Natural Progesterone Cream and Weight Gain
Balancing your hormones will help with excess weight and make you feel much better in yourself.
For a consultancy please contact us to arrange a suitable date and time
For tips and guidance on some of the menopause symptoms please follow this link
