Q: I have gained 8 pounds and moved up 4 sizes in my clothing during the first 4 months of menopause. what can I do to stop expanding ?

A: Dear Yael:

Our bodies do change when we enter menopause and women often gain some weight at that time. This is a time to be as gentle with yourself as possible. I would suggest you learn how to breathe deeply, meditate and how to relax more. It would be helpful to take a class in yoga or Tai Chi. You may want to take some natural remedies for menopause symptoms and if you have an informed doctor or a holistic health practitioner of some sort, they could help with this. I'd also suggest speaking with a dietician who is familiar with the current thinking about diet. He or she could make some dietary recommendations that would be helpful for watching your weight. Above all, remember that this is a time to celebrate -- a time when you enter your peak wisdom years.

Be well,
Dr. Denise Lamothe
Clinical Psychologist
Specializing in Weight and Eating Issues
Author of The Taming Of The Chew: A Holistic
Guide to Stopping Compulsive Eating
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Information provided by Denise Lamothe is not intended as a substitute for a visit to your own personal health care professional.
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