Why do women tend to gain weight during menopause despite eating less? Which 3 foods should be consumed to boost metabolism? Consuming foods that boost metabolism can indeed help with weight control.
After entering menopause, women typically experience a weight gain of at least 3-5 kilograms per year.
The secretion of female hormones peaks at around 21-22 years of age and gradually declines thereafter. By the age of 30, only 85% of the peak hormone levels remain, decreasing by 15% every decade. The weight gain during menopause is primarily caused by ovarian function decline, which leads to reduced secretion of estrogen and progesterone. This decline in hormone levels significantly decreases the basal metabolic rate. Additionally, the lack of regular exercise contributes to gradual weight gain. Therefore, even with reduced food intake, women may still experience weight gain. According to statistics, the average weight of women increases by 3.4 kilograms, and waist circumference increases by 5.7 centimeters after menopause. Only 50% of women have developed regular exercise habits.
The risk of developing cardiovascular diseases significantly increases for women after menopause. According to the results of the 2017-2020 National Nutrition and Health Status Survey, the prevalence of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and hyperglycemia among women aged 45-64 is 28.2%, 30.5%, and 10.4%, respectively. This is about 3.2 times, 2.1 times, and 3.5 times higher than the prevalence among women aged 35-44, and the risk increases with age. On average, every two people have one person with hypertension. Adequate estrogen levels can reduce the excitability of the sympathetic nervous system, relax smooth muscles in small arteries, and regulate blood pressure. However, after menopause, due to decreased estrogen levels and if the waist circumference is equal to or greater than 80 centimeters, abdominal fat accumulation is more likely to occur, leading to increased triglyceride and blood sugar levels, and an increased risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Supplementing calcium, vitamin D, and consuming fruits and vegetables can help with weight control. Weight loss during menopause is indeed challenging, as my mother often says, “Once you reach this age, you’ll understand.” The purpose of weight loss should not be solely focused on having a curvier figure but rather on achieving overall health. You may have already tried various methods or are currently trying, but the results may still be limited. Consuming foods that boost metabolism can aid in weight control.
Source: Neowave