11/08/2025
How Menopause Affects Weight and Metabolic Health
Menopause is more than just a hormonal transition—it has profound effects on metabolic health.
As estrogen levels decline, the body’s regulation of fat storage, insulin sensitivity, and inflammation changes.
Estrogen normally helps to protect against visceral fat gain and supports insulin sensitivity. Without it, many women experience increased abdominal fat, higher fasting insulin and glucose, and worsening cholesterol profiles. These changes can occur even if diet and exercise habits stay the same.
After menopause, the risk of developing metabolic syndrome increases significantly. This includes a cluster of conditions—abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, and high triglycerides—that raise the risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver.
This isn’t just about weight. Symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, mood changes, and brain fog can all be driven by these underlying hormonal and metabolic shifts.
Importantly, this transition is highly variable. Some women move through menopause with minimal change, while others experience dramatic effects. Genetics, lifestyle, and pre-existing metabolic health all play a role.
Understanding what’s happening under the surface allows for early, tailored interventions—whether lifestyle-based, hormonal, or pharmacological.
Menopause is a critical window to identify and address metabolic risk. It’s an opportunity to take stock of long-term health and prevent chronic disease before it takes hold.
If you would like a comprehensive women’s health assessment and help to navigate the menopause, book in with one of our doctors today. Bookings can be made online via our website or by calling (07) 3373 0265.
