Menopause and Weight Gain?
Weight gain is one of the effects of menopause because as a woman loses estrogen and progesterone, two of the most important hormones, she is no longer burning the calories that she once was.
A few of factors tend to add to this challenge:
- The fatigue and loss of energy that accompanies menopause often leaves women unable or unmotivated to exercise.
- A slower metabolism is another result of menopause.
- The general "uncomfortable" symptoms (hot flashes, night sweats, moodiness, etc.) tends to bring on the desire, for many women, the desire for foods that are high in calories snack foods, heavy meals and rich deserts.
Interestingly enough most women don't really gain much weight during or after menopause, there is merely a redistribution of weight, much like after pregnancy. This usually results in a heavier waist and thigh area, making it look as if they have put on several pounds.
Most women do, though, gain about ten pounds during this period. This is probably due to hyperthyroidism more than a change in lifestyle.
Studies suggest that a weight gain of approximately ten pounds is normal. The thinner you are, the more likely you are to experience the more serious symptoms of menopause. Conversely, though, too much weight gain can be a problem,
The loss of weight during menopause definitely is possible with some dietary changes.
- Stay away from the high caloric snack foods .
- Consume fruits and vegetables, lean means, brown rice, multi-grain breads and flour.
- Have four or five smaller meals a day.
- Change the way you eat.
- Exercise, walking thirty minutes each day is a good start.
If exercise is difficult because of a loss of energy or fatigue you can try a fatigue fighter that boosts your energy levels .
While some weight loss programs may work for you, losing weight basically comes down to two things:
- Consuming less
- Exercising more
Besides helping with weight loss, exercise can help with moodiness, anxiety, depression and help you with heart disease.
