Boost Your Metabolism: Using GLPs and Hormones During Menopause

Metabolism in Menopause. Menopause Society takes a stand.

Weight gain is a common issue for women after menopause due to hormone changes, metabolism shifts, lifestyle habits, and genetics. In the U.S., about 41.9% of women are obese, which can lead to health problems like diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and heart disease. Lower estrogen levels and aging can cause bone loss, muscle loss, and fat gain around the abdomen. Lower estrogen also makes it harder for the body to use insulin, increasing the risk of prediabetes and diabetes. Less physical activity, more stress, and poor sleep in menopausal women further worsen metabolism. Ongoing high blood sugar, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity work together to lead to blood vessel damage and heart issues. Addressing these problems together is crucial during this very critical time.

What should you do?

• Physical Activity - 150 minutes of cardiovascular exercise including at least 45 minutes weight training/week

• Nutritional Changes - Incorporate principles of the Mediterranean or the DASH diets with a empahais on low saturated fats, a goal of 25 grams fiber a day. low sodium, avoiding ultraprocessed foods and getting at least 60+ mg protein/day (about .5-1 mg/ideal body weight/day).

• Lifestyle Changes - Focus on good sleep hygiene at least 7-9 hours/night, destress by using stress reduction techniques like meditation, journaling or grounding every day.

• Hormone Therapy - Most women gain about 3 pounds/year over the menopause transition. Hormone therapy can help mitigate this if you are a good candidate.

What about GLP-s?

Setting achievable weight loss goals of 5% to 10% can lower heart disease risk and enhance blood sugar control. Medications like glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) receptor agonists have proven effective in lowering blood sugar, supporting weight loss, and protecting heart health. These drugs can reduce weight by 5% to 15%, depending on the specific type and length of treatment. Studies, like the SELECT trial, showed a 20% decrease in major heart events. GLP-1 treatments help with obesity and related issues such as knee pain and sleep apnea, improving overall quality of life. New research indicates that GLP-1/GIP receptor coagonists may provide even better metabolic and heart health benefits. Starting one of these medications is advisable if optimal visceral fat cannot be obtained by lifestyle modifications alone. These medications should be given and monitored by doctors and health care experts who specialize in weight loss. They aim to improve health while reducing side effects and risks. It's important to maintain muscle mass and prevent digestive issues and nutritional shortages, which requires a weight loss specialist to manage your health. If you are struggling - let us help you at EmpowHer Women’s Health & Wellness. We hold your health to the highest standards. After all, menopause is the BEST YEARS! You should enjoy them! - love, Dr. Mascorro.

References 1. Hales CM, Carroll MD, Fryar CD, Ogden CL. Prevalence of obesity and severe obesity among adults: United States, 2017-2018. NCHS Data Brief 2020:1-8. 2. Moiz A, Filion KB, Toutounchi H, et al. Efficacy and safety of glucagon-like peptide1 receptor agonists for weight loss among adults without diabetes : a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Ann Intern Med 2025. doi: 10.7326/ANNALS-24-01590 3. Lincoff AM, Brown-Frandsen K, Colhoun HM, et al; SELECT Trial Investigators. Semaglutide and cardiovascular outcomes in obesity without diabetes. N Engl J Med 2023;389:2221-2232. doi: 10.1056/ NEJMoa2307563 4. ACSEND Study Collaborative And menopause society e consult Feb 2025.

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