Menopause and weight gain: Why hormones and thyroid matter.
Struggling to lose weight during menopause?
Subtle thyroid imbalances and hormonal changes could be holding you back, understanding your body is the first step to regaining control.
Many women notice stubborn weight gain as they approach menopause. While lifestyle factors matter, changes in hormones, especially oestrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones, play a significant role in how your body stores fat, retains fluid, and uses energy.
As a Naturopath I take a closer look at thyroid function and hormone ranges that may appear “normal” on standard lab tests but still affect weight, energy, and metabolism.
Why weight gain happens in menopause
Hormonal shifts: Lower estrogen can lead to fat storage around the abdomen. Progesterone decline can affect water retention and mood, which can influence eating patterns.
Thyroid imbalances: Even subtle thyroid dysfunction can reduce metabolism, increase fatigue, and contribute to weight gain. Symptoms may include constipation, dry skin, hair thinning, cold intolerance, and low energy.
Other factors: Stress, sleep disruption, and medications can compound weight changes.
Why intermittent fasting may not help
While intermittent fasting works for some, during menopause it can backfire by increasing cortisol levels, which encourages fat storage and disrupts hormone balance. Naturopathic guidance focuses on sustainable eating patterns that support hormones rather than stress them further.
How naturopathic support helps
Hormone balancing
Tailored nutrition, herbal medicine, and lifestyle strategies to support estrogen and progesterone balance.Thyroid assessment
A detailed look at thyroid function including free T3, free T4, and TSH to detect subtle imbalances.Metabolic support
Nutritional support, adaptogens, and gentle exercise guidance to restore healthy metabolism and energy.Lifestyle guidance
Practical strategies for stress management, sleep, and sustainable eating that support hormonal balance rather than aggressive dieting.
Menopause-related weight gain is complex but manageable. By understanding how your hormones and thyroid influence your body, and working with a naturopath for personalised strategies, you can regain control over your weight, energy, and wellbeing.
When to seek help
If vaginal dryness is affecting your daily life, intimacy, or confidence, you don’t need to suffer in silence. Natural, effective options are available, and every woman deserves to feel comfortable in her own body.
Naturopathic support for women in Hampton, Bayside & online
As a clinical naturopath based in Hampton and supporting women across Bayside Melbourne and online, I take an integrative approach to menopause care.
We address vaginal dryness and other menopausal changes with both local and systemic strategies to support hormonal balance, tissue health, and overall wellbeing. This includes carefully dosed liquid herbs, vaginal pessaries, and nutritional medicines, alongside lifestyle and functional support, to provide lasting results.
By combining these natural therapies with personalised guidance, we get to the root of your symptoms and restore comfort, vitality, and confidence naturally.
Book a Consultation today to receive personalised support for vaginal health and menopause care.
