For numerous women aged fifty and beyond, weight gain and menopause appear to be entwined. Many of them tend to put on weight at this later phase of their lifetimes, especially around the abdomen. They are bemused because when they were younger, weight that was gained was normally centralized on the hip area.

It seems that these effects are caused by hormonal changes. At menopause, a woman's body releases diminished amounts of estrogen which is a hormone that stimulates the ovulation process. Studies on animals indicate that decreased estrogen induces weight gain and it could also be the cause of why women's bodies change shape. Throughout childbearing age, fat is deposited in the lower parts of their body. But when menopause ends, fat is stored in areas close to their abdomen.

Also, they tend to experience muscle atrophy and increased fat as they grow older, and their metabolism rate slows down. So if you do not adjust your eating habits, your weight will most likely increase.

Estrogen hormonal therapy is at times used to curb the negative symptoms of menopause. Women are frequently surprised to learn that hormonal therapy doesn't really bring about weight gain. When therapy first starts, a number of patients do have slight water retention and bloating but this is not permanent. Furthermore, they don't put on any fat.

One of the ways hormone therapy aids in reducing risk of heart disease is thru the alteration of the deposition of fat in the abdominal area.

If you think that you are accumulating excessive fat at menopause, below is a list of healthy methods you could try to aid in improving your well-being.

-Consume a low-fat diet that includes a great deal of fiber. Additionally, try avoiding sugar at all costs.

-Work out on a regular basis. Over the years, you will be less active as you age. Half an hour a day doing moderate exercise will benefit your body and mind.

-Keep your muscles active. The muscles in your legs can be exercised when you walk or cycle, and the muscles in your arms and upper body can be exercised by using weights.

-You have to learn to accept that all your bodily changes is just a fact of life. If you've got a thick midsection and slim legs, but you're not actually overweight, that's okay.

Get advice from your doctor before you start any exercise program. This is especially important if you have any existing medical conditions. Also ask your doctor about menopause and weight gain and how to deal with them.