Answer:

Unfortunately, weight gain during the menopausal transition is very common. In fact, one study found that women gain an average of 12-15 pounds during this phase of life. In addition, there is a shift in body configuration from pear-shaped to apple-shaped. There is also a 5% decrease in metabolic rate per decade. To add to all of this, bloating is a very common menopausal symptom.

What can you do? Make sure that you rule out the possibility of hypothyroidism, which occurs more frequently amongst women as they age. Also, increase your exercise, and add weight training to your regimen. You might want to read Fight Fat After Forty by Pamela Peeke, MD.

Joan Starker, PhD, MSW, a clinical social worker since 1970, has spent much of her career helping individuals cope with normal life transitions such as midlife and menopause. A member of the North American Menopause Society, she is on the advisory board of the Oregon Menopause Network.