Five causes of weight gain in women aged over 40

Written by Dr. Fareeda Muhammad | Medically reviewed by Editorial Team
Last updated on: May 29, 2023

Five causes of weight gain in women aged over 40

1. Sleep pattern changes

Sleep is one of the most common alterations in climacteric. Waking up at 3am, having difficulty sleeping or waking up earlier affects many women after 40 years of age and are often not associated with climacteric. Studies show that 4 nights of sleep restriction (less than 6 hours) was able to reduce insulin sensitivity and fat oxidation in postmenopausal women. Lack of nutrients can also exacerbate this situation.

2. Muscle loss

Skeletal muscle is considered today, the largest endocrine gland in our body. Through its stimulation there is a release of various substances, among its functions is energy expenditure. After 40 years old, the loss of muscle mass will result in the loss of potential caloric expenditure as muscle uses more calories than fat. This loss is significantly accentuated in menopause, where energy expenditure will be even lower and the chance of weight gain will be much greater. Losing weight is not just lowering the weight on the scale, but reducing the percentage of body fat.

3. Thyroid

Dysfunction is common in women, especially after 50 years of age, but in the climacteric, it is important to be aware of the changes. Some symptoms are very similar and are less obvious with advancing age, making clinical diagnosis more difficult, but they can have important deleterious effects. 

4. Depression

Depressive symptoms may be characteristic of this phase and most of the time it is also associated with a sedentary lifestyle. It is a common climacteric symptom that is little treated, which leads to tiredness, indisposition, discouragement, search for the comfort in food, feeling guilt and weight gain.

5. Inflamed intestine

One of the climacteric effects for some women is constipation and a reduction in the production of some enzymes. These two scenarios can lead to dysbiosis and making it difficult to lose weight. The diet after 40 years of age should take into account possible food intolerances not previously presented, difficulty in digestion and symptoms such as bloating, and constipation.

Keep in mind it is very important to seek the help of a professional when starting any diet, at SKINIII our team of specialists are here to help you. 

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