This Just In: Belly Fat

Increased belly fat is one of the primary concerns I hear from midlife women.  We don’t like it and it is a common occurrence.  Changes in estrogen lead to many physical changes, like hot flashes and night sweats, and yes, changes in body shape.  

Before menopause (a year without a period), we tend to store fat in our thighs and hips, resulting in more of a pear-shaped body.  With menopause, many of us adapt a more apple shape, with the weight distributed around our midsection.  To read the full New York Times article about this, click here.

The article lacks some depth and over-simplifies the complexity of what to do about belly fat as a midlife woman, but it is a fantastic read if you are looking for basic information.  The article also reinforces health concerns associated with belly fat, as it is a risk factor for heart disease and cancer.  

Estrogen is not the only factor that contributes to developing belly fat.  Stress, a sedentary lifestyle, and diet are also contributing factors to developing belly fat.  

What can you do about it?  Read my article Weight is a Symptom Not the Problem.  

For further reading on menopause, go to Foundations of Wholeness:  For Midlife Women.