Aging comes with different challenges like losing flexibility and losing hair. Women, however, face a unique set of challenges once they reach a certain age. These challenges come once they reach menopause.

Some even experience depression and anxiety during their menopause, which affects their productivity. However, two things seem to intertwine: menopause and weight gain. It is a common notion that you will likely gain weight once you hit menopause.

However, some women seem to keep those extra pounds at bay even during menopause. Hence, the question: why do some women gain weight while others don’t?

Continue reading below as we break down weight gain during menopause.

Menopause and Weight Gain: Understanding the Reproductive Life Cycle

To better understand menopause and weight gain, let us first take a look at a woman’s reproductive life cycle. As we mentioned earlier, the menopausal transition can once you reach the age of 45.

This also marks the end of the premenopause stage. This is the stage where the woman is fertile and begins at puberty. What follows is the perimenopause stage, which begins around the mid-30s to early 50s.

As you can see, this phase overlaps the menopausal transition. Hence, this is also the stage where start experiencing its various symptoms. Interestingly, one of the key symptoms of perimenopause is weight gain.

Once you stop experiencing menstruation for a full year, that is the time when you enter menopause. In this stage, all the symptoms you experienced during perimenopause will further intensify.

The Impact on Your Metabolism

Since menopause involves hormonal changes, your progesterone levels will decline. Meanwhile, your estrogen levels will become erratic. It can fluctuate several times in a single day.

Studies say that high estrogen levels may contribute to weight gain. When estrogen levels go down during menopause, fat storage around the belly increases.

As for the amount of weight, women gain an average of 2 to 5 pounds during the perimenopausal stage. This can increase during menopause as the body’s metabolism slows down further.

What You Can Do to Stay Lean

Now, the question: what can you do to keep those unwanted pounds away? Firstly, you need to mind your diet. Consider filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables. Increase your intake of Omega-3 fatty acids and olive oil.

Also, stick to a low-carb diet. Doing so will help maintain your metabolism. It will also lower your insulin levels.

You also want to start lifting weights and eating more protein. These things will help you build more muscles.

You can even try taking menopause weight gain supplements. You may also look into hormone supplementation therapy.

Furthermore, learn to manage your stress. Practice meditation and prioritize getting enough sleep. Stress and lack of sleep can increase your hunger and appetite.

Become a Healthier and Happier You

By understanding the dynamics of menopause and weight gain, you can prepare for the many changes in your body. You can also adjust your lifestyle and avoid those extra pounds. However, you shouldn’t stop at menopausal symptoms.

We invite you to read our other topics on health and wellness. Increase your knowledge and become a healthier and happier person inside and out.