Why is midlife weight gain more than a cosmetic concern during menopause?

Midlife weight gain during menopause is much more than a cosmetic concern—it’s a significant health issue. Here at Alloy, we want you to know that the changes in your body are driven by real biological shifts, not just lifestyle choices.

During perimenopause and menopause, hormonal changes (especially declining estrogen) lead to increased fat storage, particularly around the abdomen. This type of fat, called visceral fat, accumulates deep inside your abdomen and surrounds your internal organs. Unlike subcutaneous fat, visceral fat is strongly linked to higher risks of:

Heart disease
Type 2 diabetes
High blood pressure
Stroke
Inflammation
Arthritis

Insulin resistance also becomes more common, making it harder for your body to process sugars and increasing your risk for metabolic diseases. Sleep disturbances, muscle loss, and genetic factors further contribute to weight gain and make it harder to lose.

So, while weight gain can affect how you feel about your body, it’s also a metabolic shift that can impact your long-term health. That’s why at Alloy, we focus on holistic, science-backed solutions to help you manage weight and support your overall well-being during this stage of life.

To learn more about why midlife weight gain is so hard to lose and why it matters, check out our detailed article: Midlife Weight Gain: Why Is it So Hard to Lose?

If you’re interested in personalized support, our Weight Care program offers access to GLP-1 medications like Wegovy® and compounded liraglutide, which can help address the metabolic changes of menopause. Learn more about our Weight Care program or see if you qualify here.

For a deeper dive into the science and strategies for managing weight in midlife, you might also enjoy our YouTube webinar replay with Dr. Taylor Hahn, which you can watch here.

Your health is our priority at Alloy, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.

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