Obesity and Menopause: A Growing Concern

In the US over 2 million women a year enter menopause, that’s 6000 women per day! While each woman experiences menopause differently, there are a few classic symptoms. One in particular is the tendency to gain a little weight. During the menopause transition, many women gain approximately 5 pounds, however some women gain 10 or more pounds.

There are a number of reasons for this increase. The decline in estrogen does play a role in increasing the fat in your midsection. We know that lean body mass decreases with age, which is compounded by the more sedentary lifestyle of women. Additionally, sleep deprivation has also been associated with weight gain. For many of us we need to eat less and exercise more just to maintain our current weight.

Statistically, two out of every three women in the US are overweight or obese. Extra weight leads too many diseases that affect women such as heart disease, diabetes and many cancers. With such high risks, it is time to talk!

This month’s Red Hot Mamas is focused on causes and solutions for weight gain during menopause. Come join us on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Our topic is “Obesity and Menopause.” We will talk about individual factors that can make you gain weight and healthy way help you in prevent obesity.

This seminar will be held in the Pebble Creek Conference Room at the Portneuf Medical Center on Tuesday, March 5, 2019. Doors open at 6:00 pm; the presentation begins at 6:30 pm. Light refreshments will be served. To reserve a seat, visit www.portneuf.org/event/rhm or call 208-239-2033. To learn more about Portneuf’s upcoming seminars, including Red Hot Mamas®, be sure to like Portneuf Medical Center on Facebook.