How to shop for your menopausal weight gain

It almost seems inevitable that as women age, the combination of menopause and weight gain may have some effects particularly around the midsection creating a not-so-attractive, second-pair-of-hips silhouette.

The belly is one of the most dangerous places to hold fat for women, as it is a breeding ground for an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease, breast cancer, diabetes, and many others.

However, according to a study conducted at the University of Pittsburgh, menopausal weight gain can be avoided with long-term lifestyle changes concerning diet and exercise.

Already notice a bigger waistline? You may be too late to take preventative measures, and it may be more difficult to tone up than it was in your 20s, but there is hope! Below is a list of instructions on how to do your shopping to manage your weight gain.

Food

You already know that you need fruit and vegetables to have a healthy diet, but maybe they go bad before you can use them. Read on to find out how to make the most of grocery shopping.

No junk food.

Having it in the house will only give you an excuse to eat it and possibly at late hours which is particularly adverse to healthy eating. Instead, opt for food with a lot of fiber.

Make a list and stick to it.

Research recipes before you leave the house so you don’t end up buying a lot of ingredients that look great, but you have no idea what to do with.

Buy snacking vegetables

If you cut them up immediately when you get home, it will be much handier to grab on the run and you might be less tempted to stop for fast food.

Buy a little at a time.

You don’t have to stockpile like Armageddon is on its way. Just buy enough fresh produce for a few days to avoid waste. If your fruit is nearing the end of its life, make a smoothie.

Exercise

Your money matters and there are plenty of entrepreneurs willing to take it from you in exchange for a useless piece of plastic designed to “give” you six-pack abs.

Skip the gimmicks.

I know they make it look easy on television, but they are professionals and they are being paid to make it look easy.

Do invest in a yoga mat.

Yoga mats are a great buy because they are multifaceted; great for working out and also handy if you go camping or to the beach.

No to work out tapes.

Some people do have the dedication to put on a Richard Simmons video and be perfectly happy to sweat to the oldies. Ask yourself; are you one of these people? Instead…

Invest in a class.

For probably close to the same price as a 15-pack of videos, you can have 10 cycling or yoga classes with an instructor who will give you personal advice and encouragement.

For more information

Talk with your doctor about the different weight gain treatments. You should never (not even when you’re 20) aspire to be a size zero. Supermodels are (often unhealthy) freaks of nature. However, being overweight can lead to serious, preventable health risks. The key to finding health is finding a balance.

To learn more about Weight Gain