Menopause Weight Gain? Lose it!

If you have gained weight since your hysterectomy, you are not alone! Weight gain and menopause are very common comrades. Lower estrogen, lower muscle mass, and lower metabolism all contribute to higher numbers on the scale. According to WebMD, about 30 percent of women between ages 50-59 are not just overweight, but obese, which puts them at a much greater risk for major health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. Yikes!

You CAN reach your goals.

The road to better health is a difficult one, especially after menopause, but you can do it as long as you keep your end goal in mind: better health, better life, better you!

But how?

Here are the top weight loss methods that have worked for other HysterSisters:

Cut portion sizes
This is a great way to start. If you usually eat a cup of pasta, try slimming it down to ¾ cup. You might even notice it feels better not to overstuff yourself!

Walk regularly
You don’t have to start training for a marathon right away. Just lace up your shoes and enjoy a walk around the neighborhood (or local shops if the weather is disagreeable).

Count calories
In order to lose weight, you have to burn more calories than you eat—plain and simple. If this requires a major lifestyle change for you, be sure to take it a day at a time and gather a great support team to help you achieve your goals.

Get to the gym
Focus on aerobic activity (with your doctor’s approval, of course) to burn off any extra calories. Don’t expect overnight results, but as you decrease your calorie intake and increase your activity level, you will see results overtime.

Of course, everyone’s body is different. What works for one person might not work for another. Plus, there may be preexisting medical concerns to consider. If you are at your wits’ end trying to get extra weight off, it might be time to seek medical advice.

One more thing

A goal not written is merely a wish, and a goal not seen is a goal forgotten. So write down your goal, and your plan for achieving your goal and put it where you can see it constantly! Put it on your fridge to remind you to choose the fruits and veggies. Put it on the door you use most to remind you to take your water bottle or gym clothes. Put it in your car to remind you to park a little farther from the front door and stay away from fast food. You’ve got so much more to gain than weight. Picture a happier, healthier you and do something every day to become that person.

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:Menopause Weight Gain? Lose it!