SEATTLE — Weight gain is a symptom of menopause experienced by 60 to 70% of midlife women. On average, women gain about one and a half pounds per year during this time. Hormone changes can cause weight gain regardless of what you weighed previously.
“Estrogen protects us somewhat,” said Dr. Mahmuda Tasneem, Internal Medicine physician specializing in obesity and weight loss. “When we get menopause, estrogen levels go down, and that causes weight gain around the abdominal area.”
Another factor is just the aging process. It is strongly associated with involuntary loss of muscle mass starting at the age of 30. Losing muscle mass slows the body’s metabolism. Adjustments to your diet and exercising regularly can help combat these changes.
“The few things we really need to pay attention to are processed food, whether its meat or any processed food, sugar and alcohol,” Dr. Tasneem said. “Those are the three big things.”
For instance, many protein bars or snacks marketed as “healthy” may have the same amount of sugar as a candy bar. Processed meat is often high in saturated fat and sodium.
Obesity is steadily increasing globally but is increasing at a more rapid pace in the U.S. This is due to many factors, including the accessibility and affordability of processed foods, convenient fast food options and more time spent sitting with mobile devices and on social media.
Weight gain can cause mobility issues, diabetes and hypertension, so it’s important to take steps toward a healthier lifestyle.
“Look at your barriers,” Dr. Tasneem said. “That is where you start working. Start slow. Start with sugar. Get rid of sugar first then go to processed meat.”
Behavior changes can help you live a healthier lifestyle and prevent weight gain and obesity. Visit the Virginia Mason Franciscan Health website to learn more.
Sponsored by Virginia Mason Franciscan Health.
Segment Producer Rebecca Perry. Watch New Day Northwest 11 a.m. weekdays on KING 5 and streaming live on KING5.com. Contact New Day.