As women age, many might find themselves gaining more weight than they used to and not understanding why. While the answer is complex, a combination of lifestyle factors such as hormonal changes, diet, activity levels, and genetics can all contribute to the gradual weight gain many women experience as they age. By understanding the factors behind weight gain and making adjustments to your lifestyle, you can minimize the effects of these changes and lead a healthier life. In this article, we will discuss why women gain weight as they age, the factors that contribute to it, and the steps you can take to help manage your weight. Let’s dive in!
Why Do We Gain Weight as We Get Older?
When it comes to why women, in particular, gain weight as they age, the answer is a bit more complex. For starters, hormonal changes can cause the body to store more fat, as well as decrease muscle mass and bone density. This can lead to a decrease in metabolism, which can make it more difficult to lose weight. In general, hormone dysfunction is a major factor as to why most women struggle with weight at any age, but it become more clear this is an issue with time as your body can no longer adjust and accommodate for this issue. Often, as women age we start to see change in their laboratory studies and more physical symptoms of hormone issues, such as thinning hair and extra hair where you don’t want it.
Additionally, aging typically leads to decreased activity levels that can further contribute to weight gain. This is also something that over time starts to become more of an issue if there was no activity you really loved and committed to when you were younger. As more responsibilities enter your life with age, freedom leave and often physical exercise is one of the first sacrifices. Finally, genetics can also play a role in why some people gain more weight than others. So, while there is no single reason why women gain weight as they age, understanding the contributing factors can help you better manage your own weight.
Here’s a look at some of the factors that can contribute to age-related weight gain:
1. Hormonal Changes:
As women age, their reproductive hormones—such as estrogen and progesterone—can decrease in production. This can lead to an increase in fat storage and a decrease in muscle mass, which can slow down the metabolism.
2. Decreased Activity Levels:
As we age, our activity levels tend to decrease. This can cause us to burn fewer calories than before, which can lead to weight gain over time. American women have an uphill battle with this issue because our society tends to be more sedentary than other countries. We can easily drive anywhere and our homes are further away for amenities in the USA.
3. Diet:
Eating habits often change with age, and as we get older, it can become harder to maintain a healthy diet. This can lead to an increase in calorie intake, which can contribute to weight gain. Again, American food has some components to it that other countries don’t have. For example, many European countries have stricter rules around what items are allowed to be put in their food as compared to the US.
4. Genetics:
Genetics also play a role in why some people gain more weight than others. For example, some people may have a greater predisposition to store fat and be less active, which can lead to weight gain. For women, many have been silently living with PCOS or lipidemic, but have not been diagnosed.
Tips for Managing Age-Related Weight Gain
There are several steps you can take to help manage age-related weight gain.
1. Exercise:
Regular movement can help to maintain muscle mass, decrease fat storage, and increase metabolism. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week or just start with moving yourself consistently. Walk to the mailbox or down the block 1-2 time a week to start.
2. Eat a Healthy Diet:
A balanced diet high in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can help to keep your weight in check and provide the vitamins and minerals you need for good health. Think about adding in veggies rather than eliminating foods. You are probably not eating enough, that is more commonly what I see with women. Resitriction is a common and accepted eating disorder in America.
3. Get Enough Sleep:
Aim for 7-8 hours of GOOD sleep per night to help maintain a healthy weight. Anything under 5 hours really effects your body’s ability to manage weight.
Read More: The Surprising Relationship Between Sleeping Well and Weight Loss
4. Manage Stress:
Stress can lead to overeating, so it’s important to find healthy ways to manage stress. You may also learn the top tips to kickstart your weight loss journey in your 30s so you can keep your weight in check. Let’s get those cortisol levels down with painting, gardening, meditation. I like the breath bubble from Calm. It’s 50 second and all my Type A women, this you CAN do!
5. Talk to Your Doctor:
Speaking to your doctor can help you understand any potential medical issues that may be affecting your weight. Making sure your provider is educated through the Obesity Medicine Association is key to getting the right diagnoses so you can be treated effectively. Medications to treat weight is not cheating, it’s just like taking blood pressure or diabetes medication.
Wrapping Up
Age-related weight gain is a common issue among women, but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. By understanding the factors behind weight gain and making simple lifestyle changes, you can help to manage your weight and lead a healthier life. Moreover, with my weight loss program in Spokane, you can get the support and guidance you need to reach your weight loss goals. If you have any questions or would like to learn more, please do not hesitate to contact me. Thanks for reading!
