What causes perimenopausal weight gain?

Sarah Hyland

Certified Menopause Coach
@sarahsciland


28 June 2023

Video transcript:

What causes perimenopausal weight gain? Well, weight gain in perimenopause is really common for lots of reasons. Fat likes to settle on our belly and our hips as we age rather than the bum and the thighs. Bloating can worsen because the metabolism and digestion can slow down. Age and hormones make our muscles a bit smaller so we don't burn as many calories.

Fluctuating hormones and stress can really intensify our cravings for sweet food. And dieting often doesn't work because menopausal women are so tired, they can't face exercise and their willpower is worn out. They don't sleep well and their heavy periods can also leave them run down. So, there's a lot going on.

Before you even think about a diet, losing weight is just going to be easier if you look after yourself and address issues like tiredness. It's going to be so much easier to do all the hard work when you feel well and rested.

Have a ten-minute walk after dinner to help your digestion and get some fresh air. If you find you can't make it from meal to meal without snacking, just try eating smaller portions more regularly. And, just make sure you have a little bit of protein, so eggs or nuts, or beans and some veggies with every serving, because if you eat these first, it's going to help reduce cravings and sugar spikes and energy slumps.

Get a good night's sleep, go to bed early, and if you need a sleep tonic, you could try Dormeasan Sleep.


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And, get your bloods checked by the GP to rule out any underlying reasons for fatigue. So, things like anaemia or low thyroid function.

You may also find these topics helpful:

7 reasons you’re piling on the pounds

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