Weight Gain during Menopause:-
Many women experience menopausal weight gain more than any other symptom of menopause. In fact, menopause is often considered one of the most common causes for weight gain.
The good news is however, that you do not have to sacrifice your figure during or after menopause. Many women go through menopause looking as good if not better than they did in their younger years.
What Causes:- Weight and Menopause?
It is not uncommon for some women to experience weight gain anywhere from ten to fifteen pounds during menopause or per menopause. Weight gain during menopause might happen for any number of reasons.
For some women the weight gain is associated with a decreased metabolism. For other women their thyroid function begins to decline in the years preceding and after menopause. Changes in body composition also occur as a result of hormone fluctuations, which can result in weight gain. Some of the most recent studies suggest that some women are simply hungrier during menopause, which can impact caloric intake and subsequent weight gain.
Managing Menopausal Weight Gain:-
Fortunately, there are some things you can do to control weight gain during menopause. The best thing you can to is engage in a regular routine of exercise. Your exercise routine should incorporate resistance training, which not only helps build muscle, it helps burn fat.
Resistance training is also beneficial for building and maintaining bone mass, a crucial factor in women going through menopause.
You should also take a good look at your diet. If your metabolism has slowed and you have not significantly reduced your caloric intake or increased your activity level, you will gain weight. Some women find that reducing their caloric intake slightly is enough to halt weight gain during menopause. Others find they need to eat well and maintain a regular exercise regimen.
Regardless of your weight status, you should aspire to consume foods that are high in fiber, low in calories and nutrient dense. If you do this and embark on a regular exercise regimen, chances are you will halt or at least slow any weight gain during menopause.
What are some good food choices?
Legumes
- Green Leafy Vegetables
- Fruits, particularly those with the skin on (apples, pears)
- Whole grains
- Lean proteins, including fish, chicken and pork
- If you are following a well balanced diet and exercising, yet still find that you are putting on weight, be sure to visit your healthcare provider's office. They can measure your thyroid levels to ensure that your thyroid is functioning properly.
- Remember that weight gain during menopause is not inevitable, but it can happen! If you take steps to eat right and exercise however, you will head off any excessive weight gain and find that your figure remains as flattering as ever throughout your menopausal years!
