Body Fat and Hot Flashes: Cool Down Now!

You’ve been battling the bulge for awhile now, and it’s only gotten worse with age. It’s so frustrating. But maybe there’s light at the end of the tunnel. Since fat cells can produce estrogen, maybe having those few extra pounds around the middle will keep hot flashes at bay during menopause by producing some estrogen for you.

Unfortunately, the opposite is true. While the reasons aren’t fully understood, women with a higher percentage of body fat or a higher body mass index (BMI) tend to have even more frequent and more intense hot flashes rather than less. It’s just not fair.

Insulation

One theory for why this occurs revolves around the idea that fat could be acting as an insulator. So when your internal thermostat goes haywire during menopause, it’s even harder for your body to cool down.

Diet

If you are carrying around some extra weight, your diet is likely the culprit. That could mean your blood sugar fluctuates a lot which contributes to hot flashes. You may also be eating foods which impact your estrogen levels, creating imbalances that cause hot flashes. A diet that includes sugar, fat, caffeine, and alcohol can worsen hot flashes.

Lack of Exercise

If your diet is healthy but you aren’t exercising, you can still carry some extra fluff around the middle. Ironically, not moving is more likely to cause hot flashes while regular exercise can prevent them – and reduce your middle for an added benefit.

Take Action!

Losing just 10 pounds could lessen your hot flashes, reduce heart disease risks, and give you a burst of self-confidence. You’ll look better, feel better, and live longer, too. Talk to your doctor today about creating a healthy diet, lifestyle, and exercise plan.

This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support. Reprinted with permission: Body Fat and Hot Flashes: Cool Down Now!