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submitted: Aug 21st 2008 | by: AnnHuz | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 405 | |

For many women over 50, menopause and weight gain seem to be intertwined. It is very common for them to gain weight at this stage of their lives. There is also a tendency to put on weight around the abdomen. This is very different from when they were younger as any weight gained then was usually centered on the hips.

It seems that these effects are caused by hormonal changes. At menopause, a woman's body releases diminished amounts of estrogen which is a hormone that stimulates the ovulation process. Studies on animals indicate that decreased estrogen induces weight gain and it could also be the cause of why women's bodies change shape. Throughout childbearing age, fat is deposited in the lower parts of their body. But when menopause ends, fat is stored in areas close to their abdomen.

Also, they tend to experience muscle atrophy and increased fat as they grow older, and their metabolism rate slows down. So if you do not adjust your eating habits, your weight will most likely increase.

Estrogen hormonal therapy is at times used to curb the negative symptoms of menopause. Women are frequently surprised to learn that hormonal therapy doesn't really bring about weight gain. When therapy first starts, a number of patients do have slight water retention and bloating but this is not permanent. Furthermore, they don't put on any fat.

One of the ways hormone therapy aids in reducing risk of heart disease is thru the alteration of the deposition of fat in the abdominal area.

If you feel you are gaining too much weight at menopause, here are a few things you can do to help improve your situation.

-Eat a low-fat diet along with plenty of fiber. Also, avoid sugar.

-Exercising often is highly recommended. We are often not as active when we grow older. Exercising moderately for 20-30 minutes everyday enhances your physical and mental health.

-Use your muscles. While walking or cycling can help leg muscles, you can use weights for your arm muscles.

-Accepting any physical change as a natural process of growing old gracefully will make it easier for you. If you just have a heavier waistline and slender legs, but aren't really overweight, everything is still alright.

See a medical expert if you want to begin a diet regimen, particularly if you are experiencing any present medical ailments. You may also discuss menopause and the issue of gaining weight and look for ways to overcome any potential problems.

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