Why Menopause-Related Weight Gain Happens (and What You Can Do About It)
By Dr. Kaisa Schmitz | Revive Health Medical Weight Loss & Wellness
Weight gain during menopause is a common and frustrating experience, but understanding why it happens and how targeted care can help makes all the difference. Here’s what’s going on and why Revive Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, led by Dr. Kaisa Schmitz, is uniquely positioned to guide you through this transition.
Metabolic Shifts and Muscle Loss
As estrogen levels decline during menopause, your metabolism naturally slows, and you are likely to lose lean muscle mass, which burns calories even at rest. This creates a perfect storm: fewer calories burned, but the same, or even higher, caloric intake. Without adjustments, this can lead to steady weight gain that feels difficult to control.
Hormonal Changes and Fat Redistribution
Menopause is linked with a shift in fat storage, with more weight accumulating around the midsection, known as “belly fat.” This isn’t just cosmetic, it can raise risks for heart disease and metabolic issues. Reduced estrogen levels change how your body stores fat, regulates appetite, and processes insulin, making weight gain more likely during this stage of life.
Lifestyle, Sleep, and Stress Pressures
Menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, and disrupted sleep can reduce energy levels and motivation, making it harder to maintain healthy routines. Stress can also drive emotional eating and increased cortisol levels, both of which contribute to weight gain. Lack of sleep often leads to overeating and poor food choices, creating an ongoing cycle.
Why Revive Health Is Here to Help
At Revive Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, Dr. Kaisa Schmitz and her team understand that menopause weight gain isn’t just about calories in versus calories out, it’s about integrated care.
Dr. Schmitz is board-certified in Family Medicine, Obesity Medicine, and is certified by the North American Menopause Society. She brings expertise in both medical weight management and hormone therapy, helping women navigate midlife with safe and effective solutions.
Her approach focuses on improving sleep, energy, mood, and overall health, making healthy habits more achievable and sustainable.
Next Steps: Science-Backed Strategies That Work
A. Nutrition and Lifestyle
Balanced diets: Rich in vegetables, lean proteins, and fiber to improve insulin balance and support healthy weight.
Calorie awareness: Small adjustments in calorie intake can make a meaningful difference over time.
B. Movement and Strength Training
Combining aerobic activity with strength exercises helps preserve muscle, support metabolism, and reduce menopause symptoms.
C. Hormone Therapy When Appropriate
Menopause hormone therapy, guided by Dr. Schmitz, can improve sleep, energy, and overall hormonal balance, making lifestyle changes more effective.
D. Medical Weight Loss Support
Revive’s 24-week medical weight loss program, overseen by Dr. Schmitz, is also available for patients interested in combining personalized nutrition support, exercise guidance, and when appropriate, medication to assist with weight loss, including options like GLP-1s. This provides safe and effective results for women navigating midlife changes.
Building Your Personal Path Forward
At Revive Health Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, Dr. Kaisa Schmitz ensures each plan starts with your goals. Whether you need hormone relief, weight management, or both, your treatment is tailored safely and compassionately. Choose standalone menopause care, or combine it with our medical weight loss program, for extra support during midlife.
Take control with an integrative, evidence-based, and compassionate approach that honors both your hormonal and metabolic needs.
Conclusion
Menopause-related weight gain is real, but it is not your fault, and it is certainly not inevitable. With guidance from Dr. Kaisa Schmitz and the team at Revive Health Medical Weight Loss & Wellness, you can address metabolic changes, hormonal shifts, and the challenges of midlife with a personalized plan that works.
Book a consultation today with Dr. Schmitz at Revive Health Medical Weight Loss & Wellness to create a tailored path that meets your unique needs, from hormone balance to sustainable weight loss.
