About Menopause Weight Gain & Alcohol Use

Menopause is a time of physical change for women. They may experience many emotional ups and downs and drinking alcohol can be a tempting way for menopausal women to deal with them. However, drinking alcohol can bring unwanted consequences such as weight gain.

Menopause

• Menopause generally begins during a woman's late 40s or early 50s. Cessation of menstruation marks the beginning of menopause. Some women get through menopause with little awareness or discomfort. But many others experience hot flashes, insomnia, skin problems and weight gain.

Weight Gain

• According to the Mayo Clinic, menopausal women are likely to begin experiencing weight gain during their 40s. Hormonal changes, a slowing metabolism and changes to diet and exercise routines contribute to weight gain in menopausal women.

Weight Gain and Alcohol

• Women tend to metabolize alcohol less efficiently as they go through menopause and beyond. Additionally, there is very little nutritional value in most alcoholic beverages and they are high in calories. One lb. of weight equals 3,500 calories.

Drinking in Moderation

• Although there are some health benefits to moderate drinking--lowering your risk of having a fatal heart attack, for example--it is recommended that menopausal women have only one drink per day.

Warning

• Menopausal women who drink alcohol face health risks in addition to weight gain. According to the Mayo Clinic, menopausal women are at risk for osteoporosis, a condition characterized by a weakening of the bones. The North American Menopause Society reports alcohol can interfere with calcium absorption, which is important for healthy bones. Additional health problems include insomnia, imbalance, hot flashes and depression.