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Menopause can lead to fat accumulation in the waist area
Last reviewed: 01.07.2025
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Women who have reached menopause can relax. According to new research from the International Menopause Society (IMS), the cessation of menstruation does not lead to weight gain, but it can cause a larger waistline.
The climatic period is a physiological period during which a complex biological transformation of various functions of the female body occurs. The processes of transformation in the reproductive system are characterized by the cessation of the reproductive function, and then menstruation.
After 27 years, intensive metabolic processes slow down and all resources not used by the body gradually accumulate in the form of fat deposits. After 40 years, this process becomes more noticeable. And when reaching 50-55 years of age, the negative impact on the intensity of metabolic processes is exerted by a decrease in the production of sex hormones.
At a young age, the volume of subcutaneous fat increases in the mammary glands, on the hips and in the shoulder area. After menopause, when the level of progesterone and estrogen decreases, the waist size begins to increase rapidly.
According to the International Menopause Society, most cases of weight gain in both men and women are related to poor lifestyle choices. However, hormonal changes play an equally important role in this process.
Regardless of whether a woman is prone to obesity or not, after menopause, hormonal changes make themselves known in the form of fat deposits in the abdominal area.
The level of sex hormones in the blood is responsible for the nature of the distribution of adipose tissue; it may take over some of the functions previously performed by the ovaries.
Experts note that an increase in fat in the abdominal area can lead to the development of a number of diseases, in particular, diabetes and problems with the cardiovascular system.
Study co-author Professor Susan Davies says women going through the menopause should take control of their weight, avoid overeating and lead an active lifestyle.
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