What do wisdom, grandkids and retirement all have in common? Older age. As the answer to the question no woman wants asked increases, women enter a new stage of life full of fresh experiences. However, not everything that is a result of aging is as pleasant and rewarding as adorable children or an abundance of free time. For example, women are most likely to gain weight in their abdomen as they begin Menopause. In addition, they often suffer from vaginal dryness, painful intercourse and hot flashes.
If you have been feeling a little down and bloated, it may not only be in your head. However, do not let this fact stop you. Menopause may bring a few unwanted symptoms, but it does not make the rewarding parts of older age disappear.
Hormones
Unfortunately, hormones are the culprit for so many of the uncomfortable parts of Menopause. The hormonal changes that take place make it more likely to gain weight around the abdomen and cause all other symptoms. When hormones are out of balance, it is incredibly easy to feel many parts of your body change.
The main hormone creating this problem is Estrogen. Women lose Estrogen throughout Menopause, which changes the common contour of a woman’s shape around the hips. Estrogen is what women can thank for their ideal curvy or hourglass shape, and what women can curse for other unwanted symptoms, such as vaginal dryness.
Age
In addition, muscle mass usually begins to decrease with older age as fat increases. Your body does not use calories as much as before, therefore you would need to exercise more in order to prevent weight gain. Often times, exercising at all feels like a stretch let alone exercising more frequently.
What Can You Do?
Don’t hurt the messenger, but the only way to combat this weight gain is through exercise and healthy eating. The more active you are, the more calories your body will burn. You can also focus on eating healthy fats such as avocado, salmon and coconut oil. Taking a shot of apple cider vinegar is known to start your metabolism and move stomach fat. It may not be the same type of shot you took when you were young, but it is definitely more beneficial for your health.
Whether you are suffering from unwanted belly weight, painful intercourse or hot flashes, the most important thing to remember is that you are still beautiful and you can still do anything you want.
Sources:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/womens-health/in-depth/menopause-weight-gain/art-20046058
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/julie-dargan/lose-weight-after-menopause_b_9509530.html
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