Peri-menopause

[Millie2008]

So... I've had a sudden epiphany! Which is that, with my 40th birthday round the corner, I might be entering perimenopause.

Have spent the last few months confused about a few different symptoms- and it's now all falling into place a bit.

Anyway, the reason for my post is that, among other things, one of the changes is my weight. I'm a healthy weight currently. My bmi is 24-ish - so obviously wouldn't do any harm to lose a few pounds potentially. But the issue is that all the additional weight has gone on round my middle. When I do lose weight, it comes off my legs and other places that don't really need to lose weight! So I suppose my question is, so I need to just accept this new body shape and find ways of dressing it that don't draw attention to my belly? Or have people found anything helpful during perimenopause that reduces the weight gain around the middle. Obviously it's great to exercise regularly for health etc.- but I haven't really noticed that it makes any difference when it comes to fat distribution. Sigh!

I found that working on my abs and core strength has been beneficial to blasting the middle fat. 20 minutes on the rowing machine at least 3 times a week along with running, weights, brisk walks and kettle bells. Also, overhauled my diet, cut out the empty calories and increased vegetables and protein. I also cut out fizzy drinks because even if diet ones, they are not great for digestion. I still have treats at the weekend with favourite foods and the odd glass of wine.

I started doing a mix of HIIT/cross fit type classes 2 years ago and find this full body type of workout definitely helps me to look more in proportion.
Also-more protein and fibre in my diet makes a huge difference.

Thanks both- that's really helpful :-)
So up the exercise - particularly resistance and cut down on sugar by the sounds of it
I feel like that doable...

44. Got to my target weight I had at 28. Started Zoe program in September and cut all carbs (bread, pasta, white rice) with a treat once a week. All middle weight GONE! Sprinkle some exercise on it to sculpt. Voila!

Yoga. I’m late 40s, started it about 18 months ago and my body has never been better. I’m so much more toned and have ab definition. I was starting to notice the weight in the middle that you describe and it has turned it right around.

Well done 👏
Whenever I cut down on carbs I get really constipated 😂

Yes- I got into a really good rhythm with yoga a while back and def felt better in myself. And stronger etc. I didn't really notice any difference in terms of fat distribution though- but maybe I just needed to persevere ...