Why Some Women Gain Belly Fat After 40: Hormones, Muscle and Metabolism
Many women notice a frustrating change after 40: their waistline gradually becomes larger even when their overall weight has not changed significantly. Belly fat after 40 is common, but it is not simply caused by ageing or a lack of willpower. Changes in hormones, muscle mass, metabolism, physical activity, sleep and fat distribution can all contribute to increasing abdominal fat during midlife. The menopause transition can also encourage fat redistribution toward the abdomen. Why Do Women Gain Belly Fat After 40? There is no single cause. Several changes can occur together during the 40s and around menopause. 1. Hormonal Changes As women approach and go through menopause, estrogen levels fluctuate and eventually decline. These changes can influence where the body stores fat. Research suggests that menopause is associated with a shift toward greater abdominal and visceral fat. However, hormones are only one part of the picture. Age, genetics, diet, physical activity, sleep and lifesty...