Photo: Ben Goldstein/Studio D
Q: I recently went through menopause, and now I'm putting on weight in my middle. Why is this, and what can I do?
A: You're not alone. Before menopause, women are predisposed to gain weight in their hips and legs (i.e., become pear shaped), but afterward the drop in estrogen can redirect body fat distribution toward the abdomen. Unfortunately, from a health perspective, your midsection is the worst place you can gain fat. Research shows that having a waist size measuring more than 33 inches—no matter how much you weigh—increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. Try to stop or reverse your weight gain by eating right and getting 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a day. Moves that target the transverse abdominal muscle can strengthen your midsection. Try this exercise, called abdominal hollowing: Get on your hands and knees, letting your belly hang toward the floor. While breathing normally, slowly draw your belly button up and in toward your spine, as if you were being held in by a girdle. Hold the contraction for 10 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. Work up to 10 repetitions.
Next: Dr. Oz's 5 secrets of "waist loss"
A: You're not alone. Before menopause, women are predisposed to gain weight in their hips and legs (i.e., become pear shaped), but afterward the drop in estrogen can redirect body fat distribution toward the abdomen. Unfortunately, from a health perspective, your midsection is the worst place you can gain fat. Research shows that having a waist size measuring more than 33 inches—no matter how much you weigh—increases your risk of developing cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and even certain types of cancer. Try to stop or reverse your weight gain by eating right and getting 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise a day. Moves that target the transverse abdominal muscle can strengthen your midsection. Try this exercise, called abdominal hollowing: Get on your hands and knees, letting your belly hang toward the floor. While breathing normally, slowly draw your belly button up and in toward your spine, as if you were being held in by a girdle. Hold the contraction for 10 seconds, then rest for 10 seconds. Work up to 10 repetitions.
Next: Dr. Oz's 5 secrets of "waist loss"
From the November 2010 issue of O, The Oprah Magazine
As a reminder, always consult your doctor for medical advice and treatment before starting any program.
