When the Women Living Better email, Theories About Midlife Body Change, appeared in our inboxes, we were super excited.
Women Living Better is an organization who’s mandate is to improve the path to menopause through education and research. They publish some incredible reports! We couldn’t wait to dive in.
The WLB study examined 4 theories of midlife weight gain:
- Declining estrogen levels contributes to decreased energy expenditure which contributes to fat gain.
- Body shape changes more than weight as fat storage shifts to the waistline.
- Loss of lean muscle mass leads to a slower metabolism and weight gain.
- Sleep disruption leads to hormonal disruptions that leads to weight gain.
If anyone was going to find the answers to the one question that every woman wanted, surely, it would be WLB.
Only they didn’t.
What they discovered, was midlife body changes are complex and inconsistent and no single theory explains it all.
And we actually found this revelation really empowering. It means our journeys, with all its ups and downs, are completely normal. Those Instagram diets that promise quick fixes? They’re the problem, not us. They oversimplify a nuanced, individual experience and set unrealistic expectations.
So now what’s a girl to do with this information? The WLB (and we) suggest embracing this knowledge and focusing on your overall well-being:
- eat whole, nutrient-dense foods instead of the packaged stuff in a box,
- try to get in some movement every day,
- add in some strength training for healthy bones and to speed up your metabolism,
- prioritize your sleep,
- do your best to reduce stress, and above all else,
- be kind to yourself.
The truth is that it’s going to take some time for you to figure out what works for you. So relax (stress can impact your weight) and trust in your journey.
This next chapter isn’t about numbers on a scale – it’s about feeling vibrant, strong, and alive. Every small step towards better health today builds lasting wellness for tomorrow.
Trust yourself. You’re figuring out what works for you, and that’s powerful. We’re right here, cheering you on through it all.
xoxo
Mikelle and Michelle
