Menopause is usually associated with weight gain, although experts say that the two are not related. Although there is no direct research evidence available for the same, there are three things that might trigger weight gain during menopause – high intake of calories, lack of exercise and stress, says Dr Swati Dave, Nutrition and dietician, Ahmedabad. Here is how these factors aid in weight gain as you hit 50.
Loading up calorie intake: Unfortunately, not many women realise the health-effects of a high-calorie diet as they age. Instead, they tend to stock up on calorie-dense food and junk food. But according to Dr Swati, as you get old, the muscle mass declines, slowing down the metabolic rate. So if you load your intake of food or tend to overeat, the ultimate result is nothing but weight gain. This is the reason why you should keep a tab on your caloric intake as your age.
Lack of exercise: Be it a working professional or a housewife, women are never at rest and are 24X7 on their toes. But with age, there is a drastic drop in your energy level and a decline in muscle strength. And when coupled with lack of exercise to burn your calories, your body bears the burnt. And one of the most common side-effects is that you tend to put on weight, mostly around your waist and hips. Here are eight ways to make your exercise fun and lose weight!
Leading a stressful life: Believe it or not, women are more exposed to stress as they age -either physically, mentally or emotionally. Be it drastic changes in the hormonal balance leading to post menopausal symptoms, or dealing with their stubborn teenagers, or numerous psychological changes, most women are constantly stressed. This ultimately increases the level of stress hormones and the only feasible option to deal with it is turn to food for comfort. So the more you are stressed, the more you tend to binge eat, leading to weight gain. Here are 7 things you need to STOP doing when you are stressed!
Hence, it is not due to menopause but lifestyle and factors associated with menopause that can increase your risk of gaining weight. So to prevent weight gain as you hit menopause, watch out for these three key factors.
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