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By Karen Collins, R.D.
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Menopause is a natural step in a woman’s life cycle. Yet several body changes that accompany menopause pose problems for many women. Fortunately, lifestyle choices may help women diminish common concerns, like weight gain and hot flashes.
Reuters
Experience among women varies, but studies show that menopause is often linked to weight gain and a movement of fat from the thighs and hips to the waistline. Some women blame hormone replacement therapy (HRT), but studies show the opposite. HRT seems to lessen the shift of fat to the waist.
Women are right to be concerned about weight gain. A recent Finnish study found that each two pounds of weight gained during menopause raises the risk of high blood pressure five percent. Menopausal weight gain also raises the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Excess weight and weight gain in adulthood are both strongly linked to risk of breast and other hormone-related cancers after menopause.
Exercise and nutrition are key
Research shows that weight gain at menopause can be prevented or minimized. Weight gain at this time is often related to a drop in exercise level. To counter weight gain and weight shifts, women should keep physically fit with regular exercise. Strength-training exercise may offer special help in maintaining muscle mass and controlling weight.
A low fat, mostly plant-based diet is another aid. The American Institute for Cancer Research’s brochure The New American Plate is an excellent approach to weight management that stresses both portion control and balanced food choices.
Studies confirm the ability of exercise and healthful eating to help control menopausal weight gain. A recent five-year exercise and diet study found that 55 percent of the menopausal women participants could maintain or even lose weight. The program involved a moderate exercise routine that burned 1,000 to 1,500 calories per week. Brisk walking for 30 to 45 minutes, five days a week is one way to fulfill this goal. The women also ate a low fat diet that kept total calories low.
Hot flashes (or “hot flushes” as doctors call them) are another common menopause concern. A new Swedish study suggests that a vigorous exercise program and other steps to limit weight gain may reduce the tendency for hot flashes as a side benefit.
