Menopause symptoms aren't limited to night sweats and mood swings. Whether you're in perimenopause or full menopause, you can expect to put on a few pounds. Clinical studies indicate that most women will put on an extra pound each year throughout menopause.

The variations in hormone levels that are a byproduct of menopause are believed to be a significant factor in weight gain during this phase of life. There are other factors as well that cause weight gain in the mature woman. Your lifestyle is a key player when it comes to the changes happening in your body. Many women are getting less exercise and eating more during this stage of life. Your body composition changes as the ratio shifts to less muscle and more fat because of metabolic slowdown. Genetics is also a factor in menopausal weight gain.

Extreme weight gain can contribute to a range of medical conditions which can worsen the symptoms of menopause. As well, research has shown that women who gain more than 20 pounds after menopause are 20 percent more at risk of breast cancer. However, those who lose some weight have better odds of escaping this serious disease. Through dropping 20 pounds, you can reduce your risk for breast cancer by 23 percent.

If you want to avoid putting on weight and maintain your good health during this phase of your life, it is recommended that a balanced diet together with daily exercise should be a priority. When you exercise regularly, your metabolism stays high and you burn off more fat throughout the day. As well, muscle mass can be increased through strength training, which further boosts your metabolism and also builds up your bones.

It's no secret that a well balanced diet is important. But beginning in your 40s, you need to take in 200 fewer calories every day just to keep your weight where it is. If you are eating a good diet at the start of perimenopause, you won't gain as much weight after you have fully entered menopause.

We all have to accept the inevitable transitions which will happen to our bodies. If you think that your body will always stay as it is right now, think again. We might despise the thought that our bodies won't be eternally tight and toned, regardless of our efforts. But the best approach is to work at managing those facets of your health that can be improved.