Myth or Fact: Does menopause always cause weight gain?
Dr. Isabel Rodríguez-Piñero Cebrián, a specialist in the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital, clarifies this issue that concerns many women.
When we talk about menopause, we often hear that it always involves weight gain. But is this true? As Dr. Rodríguez-Piñero explains, in medicine, "always" is rarely accurate. The reality is more nuanced.
What happens in the body during menopause?
With the arrival of menopause, there is a decrease in estrogen that leads to several changes in body composition:
- Increased body fat, especially in the abdominal area.
- Decreased muscle mass, which can make the body feel heavier, even if the overall weight does not change.
Many women seek medical advice because of this change in fat distribution, even though there isn't always a visible weight gain on the scale. In some cases, we even talk about "hidden obesity ," where weight is normal, but there is excess abdominal fat, with the associated risks to metabolic and cardiovascular health.
So weight gain is inevitable?
Not necessarily. Menopause doesn't automatically cause weight gain , but it does trigger certain changes that can contribute to it if healthy habits aren't adopted in time. That's why Dr. Rodríguez-Piñero emphasizes prevention and preparing the body before menopause , ideally starting years in advance.
"We need to build muscle mass before menopause. When hormonal changes occur, it won't be so easy to gain it," explains the doctor.
What can we do to prepare?
- regular physical exercise, with special emphasis on strength training to preserve muscle mass.
- Balanced diet, rich in protein, vegetables, fruits and healthy fats.
- Avoid alcohol and tobacco, which accelerate the deterioration of muscle and bone mass.
- personalized medical care, to assess whether there are other hormonal or metabolic factors that are influencing.
Menopause doesn't necessarily mean weight gain, but it does involve bodily changes that can make it more likely. The key is to be informed, preventative, and proactive . At the Women's Unit of Ruber International Hospital, we support you through every stage so you can reach menopause in your best physical and emotional shape.
If you found this article interesting and would like to be seen by a specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics, the Women's Unit at Ruber International Hospital has a specialized department in this area. You can request more information by calling 91 387 51 72/73/74 or schedule an in-person appointment with top specialists.