The truth about the menopause weight gain merry-go-round
To many women, menopause = weight gain, and they think the dramatic hormone shift that happens when their periods stop is to blame. But a new study in the journal Menopause shows that, in truth, premenopausal women from ages 20 to 60 gain almost twice as much weight, on average, as postmenopausal women ages 40 to 60 do. And after age 60? From ages 70 to 80, women's average weight declines. Seems that disappearing hormones are not the only culprit in the battle of the bulge -- and it appears that it's often premenopausal weight gain (not lack of estrogen) that's setting women up for cardiovascular disease, joint issues, and cognitive decline in their older years.
The study highlights just how important it is for women to protect themselves by maintaining a healthy weight long before they become postmenopausal. So, do yourself a favor and take weight management seriously. Your health as you age depends on it.
My top five ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight are: 1. Create a posse to support your efforts and find a purpose -- like getting healthier and helping your family members do the same. 2. Adopt a Mediterranean-style, plant-based diet. 3. Enjoy aerobic activity and/or strength-training daily. 4. Manage stress with meditation, exercise, therapy (if needed) and fun with your posse. 5. Adopt a healthy sleep routine.
For more info on how to move gracefully into your (chronologically) older years with a (physiologically) younger ActualAge, take the ActualAge test and dive into the AI coaching program at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
Comments