Losing weight in menopause

[Coffeefacescrub]

This past year when I've had no period, I've really noticed weight gain around my bum and thighs. I look thicker.

I exercise a lot - at least two HITT classes a week plus walks with the dog and home exercises - and I'm v careful about what I eat 95% of the time. I rarely drink.

I've just started HRT. Will this help? I woke up feeling so self conscious in my jeans

You need to eat less. Portion size might be worth looking at.

Metabolism drops in mid life. Exercise will help but tbh most people overestimate the amount of calories exercise burns up.

Have you tried cutting out all the crap- ie sugar, biscuits, cakes, booze, sweets? or limiting it to maybe just one of those in a week? I have to, or the pounds just pile on.

I rarely eat biscuits and cakes etc. As a treat.

You just need to eat less. Less of what you eat now. That might mean changing what you eat as well or smaller portions.
If you are having carbs at every meal ( bread, cereals, potatoes, pasta, rice) try cutting back and having them only once a day.

No, I don't eat pasta or bread or rice. Only pulses. I don't think the portions are big - I'm very clued up nutrition wise, have been for years, so while I hear what you're saying, it doesn't apply to me. That's what so confounding!

well, maybe just try cutting back on portions? I can only say what works for me, which is eating less, partly as I'm nowhere near as active as I was when working in a different job in my 20s, or racing around after young children. I'm desk bound now, though p/t so exercise most days.

The way HRT may help is redistribution of fat; around your waist is worse and unhealthy so if yours is there is may shift it - but fat bums and thighs are healthier place for women!

Have you been checked for anything else? Hypothyroidism is more common in women over the age of about 40 and this could account for weight gain

No, thyroid is absolutely fine, iggle!

I am obviously eating too much. I will diary what I eat this week

After being at my perfect weight without too much trouble for years, the less periods I have the harder I find it to maintain this weight. I am not eating any more than before.