Obesity, Overweight, and Menopause

Obesity, Overweight, and Menopause: Understanding the Association

Obesity and overweight are common concerns during the menopausal transition. Hormonal changes, particularly declining estrogen levels, contribute to a redistribution of body fat, often leading to increased central adiposity. This shift is associated with a higher risk of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease in postmenopausal women.

Several studies have shown that women with higher BMI may experience more severe vasomotor symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, although findings are mixed. Additionally, excess adiposity can exacerbate joint pain, sleep disturbances, and mood changes commonly reported during menopause.

Addressing weight management through lifestyle interventions—including diet, physical activity, and behavioral strategies—can help mitigate these risks and improve overall quality of life during and after the menopausal transition.

References:

Davis SR, Lambrinoudaki I, Lumsden M, et al. Menopause. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2015;1:15004.

Lizcano F, Guzmán G. Estrogen Deficiency and the Origin of Obesity during Menopause. Biomed Res Int. 2014;2014:757461.