Why Am I Losing Weight During Menopause?

Hot flashes, sleepless nights, weight gain — the menopause transition is the gift that keeps on giving!

But if you’re wondering why am I losing weight during menopause?

Why don’t I feel like eating?

Are those hot flashes to blame?

You’re in the right place.

We’re taking a peek at the science behind the changes your body is going through, and what it can mean for your weight.

In this article: 📝

Does menopause make you lose weight?

Menopause is defined as 12 months from the last period you have in your life.

The transitional phase before that is known as perimenopause.

It’s during perimenopause that our estrogen and progesterone levels begin to fluctuate.

And those changing hormones have a range of effects — including on our weight.

In many cases, women put on weight.

Lower estrogen levels can lead to an increase in BMI and body fat, especially around our middles.

But those hormone changes can lead to weight loss, too.

Menopause and muscle mass

Declining estrogen levels also affect our bones and muscles.

Bones become less dense, and we can also lose muscle mass.

So even if you’re gaining fat, less muscle could mean you see a smaller number on the scale.

But this picture is complex.

When your muscle mass decreases, you burn fewer calories when you’re at rest.

So losing muscle mass may not automatically lead to weight loss.

Can hot flashes make you lose weight?

Hot flashes are pretty uncomfortable experiences that can accompany perimenopause.

They make you feel hot, especially on your face, neck, and chest.

You may go red and start to sweat.

And you might feel sick or dizzy or have a racing heart.

Heat, sweating, and a faster heart rate are all things that happen when we exercise.

So could hot flashes make you lose weight?

A 1998 study found that our metabolisms do actually increase during a hot flash.

That means your body will be burning calories faster than usual.

And you’ll be losing small amounts of moisture through sweat.

There’s a chance that this could have some impact on your weight.

But how big an impact will depend on a bunch of other factors, including your lifestyle, genes, and the frequency and intensity of your hot flashes.

Can you lose your appetite during menopause?

Changes in hormone levels can also affect your appetite.

Some women feel hungry and eat more.

But, although it’s less common, others find they lose their appetite.

There can be a number of reasons for this.

You might be feeling sick or have a dry mouth.

You could feel bloated, or have indigestion or constipation.

Or you might find this chapter of life super stressful.

All of these can put you off eating.

Those pesky hormones can also affect your sense of taste or smell.

And if you can’t enjoy your food, it’s not surprising eating can become less appealing.

If you find your appetite has dipped, try eating smaller portions more often.

There are some good herbal remedies for gastric problems too.

Ginger, for example, is great for combating nausea.

Why am I losing so much weight during menopause?

The answer to “Why am I losing weight during menopause?” could be a combination of these factors.

And it could also be related to something else entirely.

So if you’re losing weight and you’re not dieting, speak to your doctor.

They may ask you questions about your symptoms, age, weight, and family history.

And they may suggest a blood test to help get to the bottom of what’s happening.

Weight loss during menopause: The bottom line

If you’re experiencing changes in weight during the menopause transition, you’re not alone.

Many women put on weight, but some find they lose it too.

If you’re losing weight and you’re not on a diet, talk to your healthcare provider.

They’ll be able to look at the root causes, and talk through your options.

And remember, you don’t have to do this on your own.

Menopause and the chapter surrounding it can be a stressful time.

The Peanut community is here to support you. ❤️