Fat mass, weight and body shape changes at menopause – causes and consequences: a narrative review

Abstract

In addition to age-related weight gain, menopause adds additional challenges for women with the occurrence of significant metabolic alterations and central and visceral fat redistribution. The changes in body composition then influence risks of cardiovascular disease, metabolic disruption, cancer, fracture, lung disease, sexual dysfunction, mental health disorders and dementia. They may also heighten the severity of vasomotor symptoms. Treatment of these changes requires a flexible long-term strategy. This narrative review explores the pathogenesis of the metabolic changes at menopause and effective management options.

摘要

除了与年龄相关的体重增加外, 绝经还会出现显著的代谢变化以及中枢和内脏脂肪的重新分配, 从而增加女性面临的额外挑战。体成分变化会影响心血管疾病、代谢紊乱、癌症、骨折、肺部疾病、性功能障碍、精神健康障碍和痴呆症的风险。它们还可能加重血管舒缩症状的严重程度。应对这些变化需要一种灵活的长期战略。这篇叙述性综述探讨了绝经代谢变化的发病机制和有效的治疗方案。

Keywords:

• Weight
• menopause
• estrogen deficiency
• body composition
• fat mass

Potential conflict of interest

The authors report there are no competing interests to declare.

Source of funding

Nil.