What causes abdominal obesity in menopausal women

Abdominal obesity in menopausal women may be related to factors such as changes in hormone levels, decreased basal metabolic rate, decreased muscle mass, imbalanced dietary structure, and insufficient exercise.

1. Changes in hormone levels

A decrease in estrogen levels in menopausal women can lead to a redistribution of fat, making it easier for visceral fat to accumulate in the abdomen. Reduced estrogen levels can also affect lipid metabolism, leading to a slower rate of fat breakdown. This hormonal change is the main physiological cause of menopausal abdominal obesity.

2. Decrease in basal metabolic rate

As age increases, the body's basal metabolic rate naturally decreases, and the decrease becomes more pronounced after menopause. A decrease in metabolic rate means a reduction in energy expenditure, and even maintaining the original dietary intake can easily lead to excess calories. Excess calories will be converted into fat and stored in the abdomen.

3. Decreased muscle mass

After menopause, muscle tissue gradually loses and is the main tissue that consumes energy. A decrease in muscle mass will further lower the basal metabolic rate, creating a vicious cycle of reduced energy expenditure. Muscle loss can also affect body shape, making the abdomen appear more prominent.

4. Imbalance in dietary structure

Some menopausal women may alleviate emotional fluctuations through a high sugar and high-fat diet, which can easily lead to excessive calorie intake. At the same time, insufficient protein intake can accelerate muscle loss, and insufficient dietary fiber intake can affect intestinal health, both of which may exacerbate abdominal obesity.

5. Lack of exercise

Menopausal women may reduce their physical activity due to joint discomfort, decreased physical strength, and other reasons. Lack of exercise not only reduces energy consumption, but also accelerates muscle loss. Insufficient aerobic exercise affects fat burning, and insufficient strength training prevents muscle mass from being maintained, both of which promote abdominal fat accumulation. Menopausal women can improve abdominal obesity by adjusting their diet, increasing protein intake, supplementing calcium and vitamin D, engaging in moderate aerobic exercise and strength training. It is recommended to choose foods with low glycemic index, control total calorie intake, increase dietary fiber intake, and promote intestinal peristalsis. In terms of exercise, aerobic exercises such as brisk walking and swimming can be used to reduce joint burden, combined with moderate resistance training to maintain muscle mass. Maintaining a regular schedule and a positive mindset can also help regulate hormones and alleviate menopausal symptoms. If abdominal obesity is accompanied by other discomfort symptoms, it is recommended to seek medical examination in a timely manner.