Depositing more belly fat is common as women age, according to MayoClinic.com. As you get closer to menopause, this weight gain becomes more problematic, even for women who didn't struggle with belly weight previously. Losing belly fat, however, is important to reducing your risk for serious health issues.
How it Works
As you age, your metabolism gets slower. This causes an increase in the amount of belly fat, according to MayoClinic.com. After a woman experiences menopause, fat distribution changes. More fat is deposited into the stomach. Hormonal changes in the body alter the way fat is broken down and stored. Belly weight gain is also caused by decreased physical activity and eating a high-calorie diet. Family history of developing belly fat may also be a factor.
Considerations
Belly fat is more dangerous than other types of fat, according to MayoClinic.com. Having too much belly fat boosts your risk for high blood pressure, breast cancer and diabetes. Your risk for gallbladder issues and metabolic syndrome is also higher. Losing this weight is important to avoiding these medical issues.
Belly Weight Loss
As you age, it's important to focus on losing belly weight. Daily exercise is a helpful tool for losing belly fat and toning the muscles. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that healthy women get at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. This could be riding a bike on level ground or taking a walk. Strength training is also important to tightening the belly. Schedule a minimum of two strength training sessions weekly, recommends the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Diet and Belly Weight
If you're struggling with belly weight gain, a Mediterranean diet may help, according to Good Housekeeping. A Mediterranean diet focuses on replacing saturated fats with monounsaturated fats, which may decrease belly fat. You also limit red meat consumption to twice monthly and focus on consuming lean poultry and seafood. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans and low-fat dairy are also consumed. Talk with your doctor about this diet for shedding midsection pounds.
Misconceptions
Some people think that hormone replacement therapy can help shed belly fat. The link between hormone replacement and belly fat loss, however, isn't consistent, according to MayoClinic.com. Consult your doctor to discuss hormone replacement therapy. She can help you weigh the benefits versus risks for these medications.
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