Even with Exercise, I'm Still Gaining, and Definitely NOT losing weight

by Jennifer
(Tennessee)

Hi,

OK. I know I'm not 25 anymore, and can't expect to have that body, but, with the exercise I do (4-5 days a week for 50-55 minutes, and two days of weight training) I just don't understand why I can't get this weight off. I am only 4'11 too and any excess weight really shows. I am getting discouraged, because I eat the right foods, and eat a relatively low calorie diet. Lots of salads, fruit smoothies, etc. There has got to be something that will help me get rid of this weight. I've put on about 8-10 extra pounds (which on anybody else would probably look like 15-20 pounds) in the last 3-4 years, and it just seems like I should be able lose at least some of it. If nothing else, quit gaining weight! My sister in law, who is a few years older than me and struggled with her weight, started running, and the weight FELL OFF of her. She is super thin now. I tried running for 4 months with absolutely no results. I'm 48, and perimenopausal. No hot flashes yet. Just the weight gain, loss of sex drive,and loss of mental clarity. Thank you for any help you can give. I'll take any suggestions I can get.

Hi Jennifer, thanks for getting in touch. It can be tough, shifting weight at this stage of life.
One thing I suggest regarding exercise, is to concentrate more on building muscle through strength training exercises:
http://www.beat-menopause-weight-gain.com/strength-training-exercises.html
The aerobic exercise you've been doing, like running, is good for your heart and circulation, but you also need to build up muscle on your body. Muscle burns energy all day long and replaces fat on your body, so your shape becomes sleeker and more toned over time.
Regarding your diet - try keeping a written record of the calories you consume daily - you'll find lots of calorie counters online if you do a search - it's very easy to find we're eating more than we think we are, and every little counts.
The other aspect of all this is the hormonal one - hormones in the body pre-menopause encourage the body to lay down fat right around the midriff.
You'll get more of these hormones in your bloodstream if you are under stressed or over tired, so make sure you are taking steps to reduce stress and get a good night's sleep - there's plenty of information about how to do this on my website.
Good luck with it - and be patient. It all takes time, so persistence is also key.
best wishes
Elizabeth