Few menopause concerns generate as much frustration as weight gain, especially when you’re doing everything you should to stay as healthy as possible.
Hormonal changes during perimenopause and menopause affect how the body stores fat, often shifting it towards the abdomen. Insulin sensitivity may decrease. Muscle mass naturally declines with age, lowering metabolic rate. Sleep disruption further compounds the problem.
For many women, this happens without changes in diet or exercise, yet they’re often told to “eat less and move more.” This advice ignores physiology and fuels shame.
HRT does not cause weight gain. In some cases, by improving sleep and insulin sensitivity, it may help stabilise weight. However, it is not a weight-loss treatment.
The more helpful approach focuses on strength training, adequate protein, stress management, sleep support and realistic expectations.
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