05/28/2024
Menopause and Weight Gain. Yup, I said it! Probably the second biggest complaint for women. We are specifically talking about the visceral fat that settles around the midsection. Researchers have not been able to explain exactly why this happens but we do know 2 main contributing factors - decrease in estrogen and a decrease in our activity levels. Can't we just walk our way around this? Nope! As frustrating as this can be, you can address lifestyle changes to combat this weight gain. Here is how:
* Focus on an anti-inflammatory diet - this will lower inflammation, support hormone health and improve your gut health.
* Stay Hydrated - not only will your kidneys thank you but it will help you stay satiated.
* Get enough sleep - studies have shown that chronic sleep loss is associated with an increase in visceral fat.
* Add some weights to your workout - I could speak for hours on this one but as we age, we lose muscle mass which is the main reason our metabolism slows down. I am a firm believer in no exercise is bad exercise, but we have to strength train as we get older to keep our mobility, boost our metabolism and prevent bone loss!!!!!!
* Address your stress - High Stress + Increase Cortisol = Increase Visceral Fat.
* Limit your alcohol - Alcohol provides empty calories and added sugar. In addition, it disrupts our sleep.
If you look at this list and it seems exhausting or you don't know where to begin, message me about how my Menopause Coaching Program works.
