Since muscle burns more energy than fat, losing muscle mass may result in a lower metabolic rate -and extra kilos if a person’s diet and activity do not change accordingly. Studies show that adults tend to lose a small measure of muscle every year starting around age 30 and the rate of loss picks up over time. Faubion says, in large part due to an age-related loss of muscle mass.

Slower metabolism: “This is a major reason that people gain weight as they age,” Dr.

Here’s a deeper dive into the factors that may contribute to weight gain in middle adulthood: “Evidence suggests that midlife weight gain may actually have more to do with aging than hormones,” Dr. People across the board, regardless of their biology, tend to add kilos as they get older. Weight gain after age 40 isn’t just a menopausal phenomenon. The link between menopause and weight gain Testosterone helps retain lean muscle mass, so declining levels are associated with an increase in body fat, particularly in the belly region.

At menopause, testosterone is typically about half what it was at its peak. Testosterone: Levels of this hormone actually drop throughout your adult life.Lower levels of oestrogen also contribute to symptoms like hot flashes and headaches and may play a role in depression risk, as well. muscle), an increased percentage of body fat and a greater resistance to the hormone insulin, which may lead to elevated blood sugar. Oestrogen (estrogen): The next hormonal shift is typically a reduction in oestrogen, which can result in lower lean body mass (a.k.a.

Mood changes also may occur, along with a heightened susceptibility to depression or anxiety. This can set the stage for weight gain, plus vaginal dryness and menstrual spotting. Progesterone: This hormone is generally the first to wane during peri-menopause.

Zeszutek explains the major hormonal shifts of menopause and some effects you might notice: Still, knowing what’s in store can help you better navigate this phase of life and many menopausal symptoms do resolve once the body adjusts, says Dr. And let’s just acknowledge: The resulting symptoms usually aren’t much fun. Hormonal changes and symptoms of menopauseĪs the transition to menopause gets under way, levels of certain hormones begin to decline.

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