I am 53 and starting menopause. I try to exercise regularly but I find that I really really have to watch what I eat… is this change of life going to effect my metabolism and weight???
I am 53 and starting menopause. I try to exercise regularly but I find that I really really have to watch what I eat… is this change of life going to effect my metabolism and weight???
0 Answers
Danielle Kramer wrote on :
It is a fact that with aging and menopause your metabolism slows down. This can be overcome with a balanced diet, moderate eating and increased physical activity.
Being more active overall will help shed pounds, aim for 15,000 steps per day (calculated by a pedometer) or 1 hour of moderate intensity exercise and strength training daily. You may want to meet with a dietician to review a food diary and overall weight loss goals.
There are some other factors that can slow your metabolism including the thyroid disease. If you make these lifestyle changes and still continue to put on weight, then please see your physician.
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Staness Jonekos wrote on :
I wish we could blame menopause for weight gain and a slowing metabolism. Midlife weight gain appears to be mostly related to aging and lifestyle, but menopause also contributes to the problem. With busy lifestyles many of us don’t have time for exercise, over consume food and increase our alcohol intake.
With a few lifestyle changes you CAN be healthy and get into shape.
It is important to reduce calorie intake after midlife because less energy is expended. Whether weight gain is linked to menopause itself and/or age, the important thing is that studies shows that weight gain around menopause years can be prevented by exercise and dietâby minimizing fat gain and maintaining muscle, thereby reducing body size and burning more calories.
I have personally found that increasing lean protein, decreasing high-glycemic carbs, and consuming healthy fats can help you find your ideal weight. As well as, eating 5-6 mini meals a days to kick up your metabolism and prevent sugar crashes and cravings.
If you are trying to lose weight aim for 45-50 minutes of exercise at least 5 days a week. Make sure you discuss your plan with your healthcare provider, and respect any injuries.
Stress can also contribute to weight gain, so make ME TIME a priority.
If you are experiencing menopause symptoms, discuss treatment options with your health care provider. If you need a menopause expert in your area, click here and enter your zip code:
http://www.menopause.org/findclinician.aspx
Depending on your symptoms there are treatment options available from lifestyle changes, to alternative and medical choices.
Update your eating program and add exercise to your life most days of the week. With a little extra effort maintaining a healthy weight and feeling good about yourself is possible.
Hope this helps.