Weight Gain in Women 60+ years

Weight gain after 45 is driven by three factors: estrogen loss shifts fat distribution to the abdomen, sarcopenia (1% yearly muscle loss) lowers resting metabolism, and high cortisol promotes visceral abdominal fat storage. This isn't a discipline issue - it's biology. At 60+, most vasomotor symptoms ease although some women still experience them. Long-term risks are the priority: osteoporosis, breast cancer, heart, dementia. genitourinary syndrome of menopause needs active treatment as it tends to worsen. Starting systemic hormone therapy after 60 is usually more cautious; local vaginal estrogen may still be discussed with a clinician. Weight at 60+ is a complex consideration - slightly heavier (body mass index 25-27) is actually healthy for postmenopausal women and linked to lower mortality. Focus on strength, not size.