As women approach the age where menopause symptoms begin to appear, some will start to show signs of weight gain. This may be related to the coming of menopause, and it also may just be related to getting a bit older and slowing down in physical activity. Either way, it is not a welcome side effect, and most women want to find a way to stop the weight gain and get back to a slimmer figure if possible.

The question of why this weight gain starts during this time is common – it has to do with the decrease in hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. This tends to slow down the metabolism of women, and weight gain is a very real side effect. Also, weight gain after menopause seems to be harder to lose, and the inches tend to accumulate around your abdomen rather than your hips and thighs. However this need not be the outcome if a woman can plan ahead and start to develop habits that will keep her healthier and also a bit slimmer.

Every woman’s body is different of course, and not every woman will gain weight during the start of menopause. For the one’s that do start to gain weight, it is necessary to take steps right away to limit this increase. Here are a few tips:

Exercising more - Menopausal women tend to exercise less than many other women, which can lead to weight gain. The key is to develop habits of getting exercise on a regular basis, either by joining a gym, finding a good hobby like tennis or swimming, or even just going for regular walks every day. It doesn’t have to be time-consuming, just as long as it is a regular habit.

Eating less - Eating more means you'll take in more calories, which are converted to fat if you don't burn them for energy. Make it a habit of eating less during this beginning of menopause, and if need be eat more meals per day. Eating more meals that are smaller in size and calories helps to keep the metabolism up. Of course, cut back on the sweets! These are high in empty calories.

See your doctor – make sure you see your doctor as changes in your metabolism can also mean problems with your health besides just menopause, and you need to be sure.

Take your vitamins – also take vitamins that will ensure you get enough nutrients to stay healthy, especially calcium, vitamin D, and other essential vitamins and minerals. Drinking plenty of water will also make sure you stay healthy as well, hydration is very important during this period of a woman’s health.

There are many symptoms of menopause and also many cures for these symptoms. Learn as much as you can about them, and you can take positive steps to find relief for yourself.

Learn more by visiting us at natural menopause remedies site and reading our massive article collection!