Food is the foundation of our well-being and one of the most significant relationships in our lives. How we eat not only affects our weight, looks and how confident we are in our bodies, it is also the key to our optimal health. Better food choices lead to weight loss and visceral fat reduction, and, as a result – significant decrease in inflammation and the symptoms associated with perimenopause or menopause.
Menopause can bring dramatic changes in a woman's body, potentially leading to the accumulation of visceral fat. During this natural phase, typically occurring between ages 45 to 55, hormonal shifts take center stage. Before menopause, higher levels of estrogen help distribute fat in a way that's friendlier to our figures, storing it in the hips and thighs (subcutaneous fat) rather than the belly (visceral fat). As estrogen levels drop during menopause, fat storage preferences can shift, favoring more abdominal fat, which is often considered less desirable.
Other factors join the party too. As we age, our metabolism can slow down, making it easier to put on weight, especially around the tummy. Lifestyle plays a role too—changes in diet, physical activity, and stress levels can all contribute. It is crucial to embrace a healthy lifestyle during menopause. This includes transitioning to new food behavior changes, understanding the workings of cognitive distortion, incorporating functional nutrition practices, and utilizing stress management techniques. These practices will promote better overall health and well-being.