Menopausal belly weight gain can be gradually improved by adjusting dietary structure, increasing aerobic exercise, supplementing plant estrogen, controlling stress hormone secretion, and improving sleep quality. Menopausal weight gain is mainly related to factors such as decreased estrogen levels, decreased basal metabolic rate, and accumulation of visceral fat. It is necessary to avoid rapid weight loss that can lead to endocrine disorders.
1. Adjust dietary structure
Reduce refined carbohydrates intake and replace white rice noodles with whole grains such as brown rice and oats. Increasing the proportion of high-quality protein and consuming foods rich in leucine such as fish, shrimp, and bean products daily can help maintain muscle mass. The main cooking method is steaming and stewing, with a daily limit of no more than 25 grams of edible oil. Moderate supplementation of foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as flaxseed and chia seeds can help regulate lipid metabolism.
2. Increase aerobic exercise
Perform low impact aerobic exercises such as brisk walking, swimming, etc. at least 5 times a week, each lasting 30-45 minutes, with heart rate maintained in the range of 60% -70% of maximum heart rate. Combining intermittent high-intensity training, such as alternating 20 second sprint runs and 40 second slow walks twice a week. Supplementing whey protein after exercise can promote muscle synthesis and increase resting metabolic rate.
3. Phytoestrogen supplementation
Add foods with high content of soybean isoflavones in daily diet, such as soybean milk, tofu, natto, etc., and take soybean products equivalent to 50 mg of isoflavones every day. Kudzu root powder and red clover extract can be used as dietary supplements, and their active ingredients can bind to estrogen receptors to alleviate menopausal metabolic abnormalities. Avoid excessive intake of cruciferous vegetables that may interfere with thyroid function.
4. Control stress hormones
Reduce cortisol levels through mindfulness meditation or abdominal breathing training, practicing for 15-20 minutes daily. Limit caffeine intake and avoid drinking caffeinated beverages after 3 pm. Supplementing magnesium and B vitamins, such as dark green vegetables and whole grains, can improve adrenal function. Maintain a regular sleep schedule and avoid staying up late. Elevated cortisol levels at night can promote abdominal fat accumulation.
5. Improve sleep quality
Keep the bedroom temperature at 18-22 degrees Celsius and avoid using electronic devices one hour before bedtime. Eating foods rich in tryptophan such as millet and bananas for dinner can promote melatonin synthesis. When necessary, under the guidance of a doctor, short-term use of traditional Chinese patent medicines and simple preparations such as Zaoren Anshen Capsule to improve sleep disorders. Lack of deep sleep can reduce leptin secretion and increase ghrelin levels, leading to overeating.
Menopausal weight loss requires establishing sustainable healthy habits. It is recommended to record daily diet and exercise, and measure waist circumference changes every week instead of simply focusing on weight. Paired with impedance training to prevent muscle loss, such as elastic band training or self weight squats. Pay attention to supplementing vitamin D and calcium, and expose to sunlight for 15 minutes daily to promote synthesis. If symptoms such as persistent hot flashes and palpitations occur, timely medical attention should be sought to investigate potential diseases such as thyroid dysfunction. Maintaining active social activities can help alleviate menopausal anxiety and avoid emotional eating.
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