Weight Gain in Midlife Women
Maria D Hurtado1,2, Mariam Saadedine3,4, Ekta Kapoor4,5,6,7
1Division of Endocrinology, Diabetes, Metabolism, and Nutrition, Department of Medicine, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL, USA.
Current Obesity Reports
|February 28, 2024
Summary
Midlife women often gain weight due to aging and menopause, increasing health risks. Lifestyle interventions focusing on diet and physical activity are crucial for prevention and management.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Gerontology
- Preventive Medicine
Background:
- Midlife women experience physiological and lifestyle shifts that promote weight gain.
- Menopause-induced hormonal changes contribute to increased central adiposity.
- Weight gain in midlife is linked to numerous adverse health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence on weight and body composition changes in midlife women.
- To discuss clinical implications and management strategies for weight gain.
- To provide an overview of prevention and management in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review of existing literature.
- Synthesis of evidence on weight changes and health consequences.
- Analysis of current prevention and management guidelines.
Main Results:
- Decreased energy expenditure and physical activity are key drivers of weight gain.
- Menopause significantly impacts body fat distribution, favoring central adiposity.
- Associated health risks include cardiometabolic diseases, osteoarthritis, cancer, and cognitive decline.
Conclusions:
- Midlife women are susceptible to weight gain from aging, menopause, and lifestyle factors.
- Clinical focus should be on early counseling regarding diet and exercise.
- Further research is needed on long-term weight trends and mortality.
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