Why is weight gain so common during the menopausal transition?
1) The natural aging process which slows down the metabolic rate. 2) Adrenal exhaustion which as stated previously, occurs due to stress (both physical and emotional) where cortisol levels remain elevated leading to thyroid hormone dysfunction, altered insulin production (decreased efficiency of carbohydrate metabolism) and weight gain. 3) Menopause where the adrenal glands must take over production of the female hormones leading to further adrenal exhaustion, thyroid dysfunction and weight gain.
