With menopause comes a host of changes in the body. There’s a reduction in estrogen production, restless sleep, vaginal dryness, and belly fat retention and loss of muscle mass.

“Declining estrogen levels during menopause contribute to muscle loss, which in turn affects metabolism , increases fat storage and weakens bones,” Maria Luque, Ph.D., explained during a June 4 TODAY segment.

If you’re experiencing any of this, you’re not alone. Menopausal weight gain, impacts between 60-70% of menopausal women. It’s been associated with a decline in muscle mass due to hormonal changes, TODAY.com previously reported . The hormonal changes typically result in the redistribution of abdominal fat. In some cases, women have doubled their fat mass because of menopause alone, says one study

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