Menopause and Weight Gain: Exploring the Connection
Your body, your temple
Menopause and weight gain often go hand in hand, affecting the lives of many women. But is menopause the sole culprit? According to Dr. Monica Christmas, it’s not that simple. As the director of the menopause program at the University of Chicago Medicine, Dr. Christmas explains that menopause is intricately linked to the aging process. As we age, lifestyle changes, such as being less active, can contribute to weight gain.
To maintain a healthy weight during menopause, Dr. Christmas recommends treating your diet like your bank account. Be meticulous about your food choices and how you spend your calories. Opt for a plant-forward diet and avoid highly processed foods that contain sodium, sugar, and trans fats. Remember to indulge in treats in moderation and make up for it by scaling back later. Prioritizing exercise is also essential, as it helps combat muscle loss that comes with aging and can put older adults at a higher risk of disability.
Additionally, Dr. Christmas suggests limiting alcohol consumption or avoiding it altogether. Alcohol can disrupt sleep, trigger or exacerbate depression, and lead to increased calorie consumption. Prioritizing sleep is also crucial, as research has shown that insufficient sleep is associated with weight gain. Taking care of your body also means prioritizing self-care and self-love. Menopause can be a challenging phase of life for some individuals, and creating space for activities that bring joy and peace is crucial for overall well-being. If feelings of sadness, irritability, anxiety, or decreased motivation arise, consulting a mental health specialist can help provide support and potentially prevent overeating or a lack of exercise.
Taking Charge of Your Health
Understanding the connection between menopause and weight gain empowers women to take proactive steps in managing their health. By adopting healthy lifestyle habits, such as maintaining a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular physical activity, and prioritizing self-care, women can navigate the menopause transition with greater equanimity.
Weakening metabolism is a natural part of the aging process. However, with diligence and a focus on health, individuals can minimize the effects of menopause-related weight gain. These tips from Dr. Christmas provide a roadmap for maintaining a healthy weight and overall well-being during menopause.
Listen to the full episode of the “Chasing Life with Dr. Sanjay Gupta” podcast, where the connection between menopause, weight gain, and lifestyle choices is explored in greater detail. Gain insight into the factors influencing women’s weight during menopause and discover effective strategies to prevent excessive weight gain. Join next week as we dive into the complexities of obesity as a disease.
