At 40, a woman's body undergoes a number of changes that have a serious impact on digestion, metabolism and other body functions.
The risk of gaining weight also increases. What is the reason for this? What are the 8 factors responsible for weight gain in women over 40?
Hormonal imbalance
Hormonal changes that occur during menopause can affect appetite, metabolism, and other body functions, leading to weight gain.
Hormonal imbalances, such as those caused by thyroid problems or polycystic ovary syndrome, can also lead to weight gain.
These hormonal imbalances can cause increased appetite and decreased metabolism, leading to weight gain if not compensated for with diet or exercise.
Increased appetite
Changing hormones can lead to increased appetite, which often causes women to eat more than they need.
This extra food intake can lead to weight gain if not properly controlled.
Stress
Stress can cause elevated cortisol levels, which can lead to increased appetite and subsequent weight gain.
Stress can also disrupt sleep, which further exacerbates the problem. To combat this problem, it is important to manage stress levels through activities such as yoga or meditation.
Lack of adequate physical activity
Lack of exercise can lead to weight gain because the body does not burn the required amount of calories through exercise and movement.
Regular exercise can help you lose weight by burning calories and building muscle mass. It can also help reduce stress and improve your overall health.
Unhealthy eating habits
Unhealthy eating habits, such as skipping meals, eating unhealthy foods, or eating large portions, can contribute to weight gain.
A balanced diet of lean proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats is essential to maintaining a healthy weight. Additionally, eating smaller portions throughout the day and avoiding processed foods will help keep calories under control.
Taking medications
Some medications can cause weight gain due to their effects on hormones or metabolism.
For example, medications such as antidepressants and corticosteroids can cause weight gain. It is important to discuss possible side effects with your doctor before starting any new medications.
Decreased metabolism
As you age, your metabolism slows down due to changes in hormones and muscle mass. This decrease in metabolism can lead to weight gain if not compensated for with diet or exercise.
Small lifestyle changes, such as increasing your fiber intake or being more active, can help boost your metabolism and fight excess weight.
Lack of sleep
Lack of sleep can cause increased levels of hunger hormones, which can lead to overeating and ultimately weight gain.
Additionally, lack of sleep reduces energy levels, making physical activity less likely.
To ensure a good night's sleep (at least 7-8 hours), it is important to establish a proper sleep schedule and limit the time spent working on the computer before bed.
In conclusion, it should be noted that women over 40 are prone to weight gain due to various factors. However, by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, you can combat these problems and maintain an optimal weight.
Previously we talked about the causes of hair loss in women .
Expert: Elena Gutyro
