Is it normal to gain weight in your 40s?
Gaining weight in your 40s is common, but it can be discouraging. You know what you should do to stay healthy and lose weight, but it's hard when these things just aren't working anymore. Or you have too much going on in your life to commit to hours at the gym! In this article, we'll cover everything you need to know about gaining weight in your 40s: why it happens, how much is too much, and what you can do about it.
Is it normal?
Yes, it is normal to gain weight as you age. But that doesn't mean you have to accept it. The average American gains about one pound per year after age 25-30--and that can add up over time.
The good news is that if you're concerned about your weight (or if your doctor tells you that your BMI needs improvement), there are things we can do about it! There are plenty of healthy ways for adults in their 40s and beyond who want to lose weight safely and effectively.
Hormones and menopause
One of the most common causes of weight gain in this age group is hormonal fluctuations. As you age and your body changes, it's normal to experience some hormonal shifts that can affect your appetite or metabolism. You may find yourself hungrier than before--or less hungry--and this could lead to overeating and weight gain if you aren't careful about what you eat (or how much).
For example: If a woman goes through menopause without taking steps to manage her hormones (such as through hormone replacement therapy), she may notice more cravings for sugar and carbs in addition to other symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats. These cravings can be difficult for some women because they feel like they have no control over them; however, there are things we can do now so we're better prepared when these changes hit us later in life!
Impact of medications
If you're taking medication, it's important to understand how it might affect your weight. Some medications can cause weight gain and others may make you feel drowsy or fatigue.
If your doctor prescribes a new medication and asks about any side effects, be sure to mention any concerns about weight gain or difficulty sleeping.
Working out isn't necessarily the answer
Working out can be a great way to stay in shape, but it's not the only answer. There are many different types of exercise and finding one that you enjoy and will stick with is key. And while working out is important, it can't do all the work on its own--you need to make sure that your diet is also balanced so that you're eating enough calories without gaining weight.
Working out can help boost your mood and make you feel better about yourself!
There are ways, but maybe not the ways you're used to
You have to be patient, and you have to be realistic. You can't expect your body to respond in the same way as it did when you were younger. With age comes change, and that includes a slower metabolism and reduced muscle mass--two things that will affect your weight gain or loss.
But there are still plenty of ways for people over 40 to lose weight without feeling like they're depriving themselves of food or exercise opportunities:
Cut out processed foods from your diet by reducing fast food orders (or eliminating them altogether), cooking at home more often, and eating fresh fruits and vegetables instead of pre-packaged snacks
Get active by incorporating activities into daily life like taking walks around the neighborhood with friends or family members.
Reach out to a professional
If you're feeling overwhelmed and the above tips don't seem to be helping, consider reaching out to a health and fitness coach. They can help you create a personalised plan that addresses your hormones, weight gain, emotional eating and more.
Webinar Reminder
Because this issue is so common, we have decided to host a webinar that will give you the tools and tips you need to start feeling good in your body again.
The Truth About Meno-Belly: Why what you did in your 20s no longer works in your 40s - Thursday 16th November, 2pm - 2.45pm
Join Rita live, as she uses her experience as a qualified health and fitness coach specialising in menopause, to help you combat your meno-belly and simplify weight loss.
Replays will be sent out if you can’t attend, but you’ll want to join us live, as you’ll receive:
- Instant access to our BIGGEST EVER offer, announced at the end of the webinar
- The opportunity to join the Q+A with Rita
- A free copy of our Menopause Bundle e-books
Conclusion
Gaining weight in your 40s can be frustrating and confusing, but it's important to remember that you're not alone! There are many other women out there experiencing the same thing--and they have found ways of dealing with it through exercise and dieting as well as professional help to put your habits into auto-pilot.
Make it easier on yourself and join us live for the webinar. We can’t wait to see you there!
Can you get rid of menopause belly?
Menopause can be really challenging, but it is also a normal part of life. Menopause occurs when your ovaries stop producing estrogen and progesterone - the hormones that influence menstruation and fertility. It's simply Mother Nature's way of bringing about the end of fertility for women who've already had children! The average age for women to reach menopause is 51 years old (but can occur earlier or later than this), although some women enter perimenopause at 40 years old or younger.
What is menopause belly?
Menopause belly is a term used to describe the fat that accumulates around the waist after menopause. It is not just a matter of weight gain; it's a combination of factors that can include eating too much and exercising too little, as well as hormonal changes in your body during this time. The good news is there are things you can do about it!
What causes menopause belly?
There are many factors that contribute to the development of menopause belly fat. These include:
Hormonal changes
Insulin resistance, which is when your body becomes resistant to the effects of insulin and can no longer use it effectively. This can lead to high blood sugar levels, increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels, as well as weight gain around your middle (a sign of metabolic syndrome).
Cravings for sugar or salt--or both--because your body needs more nutrients due to a lack of estrogen production during menopause. This can also be caused by sleep deprivation or stress from work or family life; these things will make you feel hungry all day long!
Why the things that worked when we were younger don't seem to work for us anymore
When we were younger, our bodies were active and fit. Our metabolism was high, and we could eat just about anything without gaining weight.
But as time goes on, our bodies change in ways that make it harder for us to stay slim:
Our activity levels decline. As we age, our muscles get weaker and less toned--and when this happens around the middle section of your body (where most people gain weight), it can lead to a meno-belly.
A slower metabolism means you burn fewer calories each day than when you were younger -- even if you're eating exactly the same amount of food every day! This means that any extra calories end up getting stored as fat instead of being burned off as energy (which would keep them from sticking around).
Webinar Announcement
It can be hard to navigate these changes, and can often leave you feeling deflated. So now you know more about meno-belly, what can you do about it?
We're excited to announce a webinar on Thursday 16th November from 2pm - 2.45pm - The Truth About Meno-Belly: Why what we did in our 20s doesn't work in our 40s.
Replays will be emailed out if you can't join, but you will want to join live as you will get:
The opportunity to join the live Q+A, a free e-book and we will announce our BIGGEST ever offer!
If you sign up before HALLOWEEN (31st October), you'll automatically receive a free 45 minute strategy session with Rita!
Conclusion
We know how frustrating it is to feel like you're stuck with a belly that won't go away. We've been there, too! That's why we created this webinar to help you discover the truth about menopause belly and learn some easy ways to get rid of it once and for all. Join Rita on Thursday 16th November - you won't regret it!
Unlock the Power of Metabolic Weight Loss Programmes
It’s easy for health to take a back seat in our fast-paced world. Are you looking to discover a pathway that helps you achieve your health and wellness goals? Then teaming up with a health coach to design and deliver a tailored metabolic weight loss programme has the potential to be truly transformative!
What is the metabolism?
First of all, let’s demystify the term “metabolism.” In simple terms, it’s the number of calories your body expends to keep you alive. Think of it as a series of intricate chemical reactions that build and break down molecules. It’s all regulated by hormones, and requires energy and nutrients to function efficiently – that’s where you come in and your diet and exercise choices.
The science behind metabolism and weight loss
When your metabolism increases, your body burns more calories, so you don’t have to store so many as fat. As your body learns to naturally shed unnecessary fat stores, accelerating your metabolism through exercise, diet, and healthy lifestyle choices is one of the best tools in your sustainable weight loss toolkit.
Introducing the metabolic weight loss programme
Imagine a weight loss programme designed exclusively for you – a programme that combines tailored dietary adjustments, physical activity, and supplement support if needed. At The Health and Fitness Coach, our metabolic weight loss programme starts by crafting personalised diet plans based on your unique body and nutritional needs. We’re all about healthier ingredients, portion control, and optimising the time of your meals to maximise impact.
Our workouts aren’t just about sweating it out. We incorporate cardio and strength training regimes to strategically boost your metabolism and build a strong, sustainable foundation. No two bodies are alike, and we embrace this case-by-case approach. Our programme is designed to cater to your individual requirements, ensuring a holistic transformation that considers your overall health and well-being.
Sustainable health transformation
When it comes to weight loss programmes, beware of promises that sound too good to be true. Rapid weight loss might sound appealing, but true transformation requires a sustainable approach. Our metabolic weight loss programme goes beyond quick fixes. We’re here for your long-term success, helping you unlock a balanced and holistic lifestyle that supports your health and weight loss goals.
Your journey starts here
Are you ready to feel more energetic, empowered, and in control of your health and weight? The secret to a healthier, happier you lies in embracing a metabolic weight loss programme guided by an experienced health coach. Don’t settle for less and say goodbye to one-size-fits-all solutions. Say hello to the journey that transforms your body and your life.
Begin your journey to optimal health and wellness today. Get in touch with Rita and embark on the path to a revitalised you. Book a call, take the first step, and unlock the potential of metabolic weight loss today!
