You've probably heard that women gain weight around menopause, you might even have heard of the dreaded... meno-belly... but, is it real? Are you actually stuck with weight gain, or is there something you can do about this?
Do I Have More Belly Fat? (and WHY?)
You're not going crazy - weight gain around the midsection is a hallmark of menopause for many women - even those who have been avid gym goers throughout their life. Reduced levels of estrogen after menopause can cause fat to be stored around your waist rather than on your hips and thighs. In postmenopausal women, belly fat accounts for 15 to 20% of their total body weight, compared with 5 to 8% in premenopausal women.
Unfortunately, belly fat is also associated with some negative health outcomes. Known as visceral fat, it can be a contributing factor in heart disease, type 2 diabetes, breast cancer, dementia, and increased vasomotor symptoms (such as hot flashes).
Why is it Harder to Lose Weight?
Aside from an increasing waist line, weight loss in general becomes more challenging as we age, but why? There are several factors that contribute to this, both mental and physical.
Does Estrogen Make Me Lose or Gain Weight?!
There is no black and white answer for this; Estrogen promotes the storage of fat for healthy reproductive years. When estrogen is balanced, the right amount of fat helps carry out female reproductive functions. However, when there's too little or too much estrogen, weight gain often results.
What this means for you, is that getting your hormones BALANCED is key - and not just estrogen, but progesterone, and testosterone too. Hormones in balance help ensure optimal metabolic functioning, meaning weight gain is less likely.
What About BLOAT?!
High estrogen and low progesterone levels can lead to water retention and bloating. Estrogen often acts as a fluid retaining hormone, while progesterone is a natural diuretic. Therefore, when these hormones are thrown off balance, you may notice bloating. The solution to this is typically balancing hormones, and often, that can mean adding in some progesterone. Remember, when you first start taking hormones there may be some bloat that occurs as the body readjusts to the presence of hormones; this is normal, and typically resolves in 6-8 weeks.
What Can I DO About It?
There are lots of things you can do about this, though the majority of them are lifestyle changes:
Does Anything Else Help?
Consider using some of the hormone DHEA as part of your hormone health. DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is the mother hormone from which testosterone and estrogen flow. Studies show that women who use small amounts of DHEA are more likely to see a decrease in waist circumference and an increase in energy. Decreasing waist circumference is important for reducing visceral fat - that fat that builds up around your organs and causes oxidative stress damage. More energy means you have the enthusiasm to start or continue your exercise routine and your healthy lifestyle strategies.
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Disclaimer: The information provided above is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Statements made have not been evaluated by the FDA nor are they intended to treat or diagnose. Any health concerns should be discussed and evaluated by your primary health care provider.
Parlor Games, LLC ● kate@parlor-games.com ● 5304 River Rd N Ste B ● Keizer OR 97303
Disclaimer: The information provided above is intended for educational and informational purposes only. Statements made have not been evaluated by the FDA nor are they intended to treat or diagnose. Any health concerns should be discussed and evaluated by your primary health care provider.