Are you concerned about your weight?
According to a report by England’s chief medical officer, Dame Sally Davies, obesity is the biggest threat to women’s health and the health of future generations.
In her annual report, she warns that tackling obesity should be a national priority and women should be empowered to lead healthier and more active lives.
In England in 2013, 64% of women aged 34-44 and 71% of women aged 45-54 were classified as overweight or obese.
At menopause, many women experience weight gain, particularly around the abdomen. This can be a time when women feel they are not in control of their bodies and the pounds can creep on, and become harder to shift in later life. Apart from declining oestrogen levels, other factors that may contribute to weight gain after menopause include:
- Loss of muscle tissue with age
- Lowered metabolism
- Reduced physical activity
- Altered habits – for example, more freedom to eat out.
How do you feel about your weight? Do you think you are a healthy weight? Are you conscious about your lifestyle, diet and exercise? Are you in denial about your weight? Do you feel in control?
