Understanding Weight Gain During Premenopause: Causes & Solutions

Question
I am 45 years old and have many of the symptoms of menopause or at least premenopause - hot flashes, missed and irregular periods, emotional, fuzzy brain, water retention, and weight gain. I've recently started bio-identical hormone therapy and have noticed lessened hot flashes and better sleep. I couldn't find a physician in our area but I'm working with a pharmacist that compounds the formula. Unfortunately I continue to gain weight. Now let me explain that I have been into health and fitness for about 10 years. I eat 6 small, healthy meals a day and exercise 30 minutes to 2 hours daily including strength training 2-3 times per week. I eat a lot of protein and only healthy carbs and very little of that (steel cut oatmeal, whole wheat pasta, etc.)I'm not eating too few calories because I get weak and shaky if I don't eat. Any suggestions?

Answer
You are describing several perimenopausal symptoms and seem to be dealing with them well. A compounding pharmacist is good, except you don't know what your hormone levels are. Go to www.everythingmenopause.com and look under treatment options. You can find a doctor in your area to get some lab work done and see where your estrogen and progesterone levels are.  Weight gain is tricky at this age. Most experts recommend a high protein, low-carb diet, keeping the blood sugars balanced, and regular excercise - which you seem to be doing. Dieting won't help, that's for sure. Once you get the hormones balanced, you might want to try a personal trainer that can help you burn fat more efficiently. Good luck.