Perimenopause – Weight Gain as an Indicator to the Change
The gravity of weight gain as one of the peri menopause symptoms has an almost complete hold on women as this is usually one of the overlooked symptoms of perimenopause.
The gain usually zones in on the middle part of the body, specifically the abdomen, and not much on the hips and thighs. All women are affected. No one is immune, not even those who have been weight and figure conscious for more than half of their lives.
What we do know is that weight gain happens due to a change in hormone levels, specifically an alarming decline of estrogen. Some women claim that HRTs (hormone replacement therapies) and the Pill are the usual suspects – sure, it manages irregular periods, helps in dealing with hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia and all that, but does it really cause you to keep extra weight around your mid-section?
Unfortunately, compared to other well-known perimenopause symptoms, there are not many studies made on the middle age-spread (as most people like to call it). And there is no known medication that can help cut down on the gain.
However, there is something we can do, specifically with our diet and lifestyles. Take out the usual context of “diet” and let’s focus on the real essence of it – mainly having a consistent, healthy and balanced meals all the time.
In managing what you eat, one must remember the term mentioned earlier – balance. You should have a balanced mix of proteins, vegetables, fruits, calories and fats. Yes, I am telling you that you should not completely eliminate fats and calories from your diet as this is where energy is usually derived from. Take note, everything that taken is in excess is always bad for the health. Mix in a little of everything for every meal of the day, and you’re usually good to go.
Also, we have exercise. Now personally, finding time to exercise is a bit of a challenge, especially since I hold down a part-time job as well as being a full time mom. What little time I have left for myself, I usually reserve for the couch.
What I do is I go walking around the block everyday, just to get the blood circulation flowing well. Jogging, cycling and brisk walking may also do the trick for you. As you exercise, it not only burns the calories and fats, but it also converts it into energy that we use for the rest of the day.
If you’re into alcohol and smoking, start cutting down gradually (to avoid withdrawal symptoms). I know you’ve heard this countless times already, but really, alcohol and smoking doesn’t contribute anything good to your health. Trust me; I’ve been there, especially for the smoking part. The only thing that it will give you is a cold bed in a hospital and a nebulizer within easy reach – as it did for me. Then I gained weight. After cutting down, I felt healthier, and noticed a drop in my weight. It may work differently for other people, but giving it a try won’t kill you.
Lastly, cut down on your salt intake. Salt causes the body to retain water and it contributes to an increase in your blood pressure, giving you that “bloated” feeling.
Beat Perimenopause Weight Gain.
Learning more about perimenopause is essential to conquering it. Join our FREE mini course and get the answers you are looking for. Find out:
- What Perimenopause is and how it affects your body's functioning
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- What symptoms to expect now that you are in Perimenopause
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- How to have the right diet and how to make the correct lifestyle changes that will help you overcome Perimenopause symptoms
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