Why does menopause cause weight gain?

Menopause is often associated with weight gain, particularly around the abdomen, due to a combination of declining estrogen, natural muscle loss with age, and a slowing metabolism. Sleep disruption and increased stress can also make weight management more difficult during this life stage.

Strength training, adequate protein intake, and attention to sleep and stress can help offset these changes, even though some shift in body composition is a normal part of the transition.