Research from the University of Jyväskylä reveals a significant connection between unhealthy eating habits, low physical activity, and increased central body fat in women approaching menopause. This combination heightens the risk of metabolic inflammation, which can lead to cardiovascular diseases. The study emphasizes that combining healthy eating practices with regular exercise offers the best defense against these health risks. As estrogen levels drop during menopause, fat distribution shifts from the hips and thighs to the abdomen, increasing visceral fat accumulation. This shift elevates the likelihood of inflammation and related health issues.

The Role of Physical Activity and Eating Habits in Managing Visceral Fat

Physical activity and eating behaviors play crucial roles in managing visceral fat and reducing inflammation. Women who maintain active lifestyles and adopt balanced eating patterns tend to have lower levels of harmful abdominal fat. Conversely, those with disordered eating habits and sedentary lifestyles are more prone to higher visceral fat deposits. The research underscores that even substantial amounts of exercise may not fully counteract the negative effects if accompanied by poor eating behaviors.

In detail, the study found that women who engaged in higher levels of physical activity had less visceral fat, particularly when they did not exhibit disordered eating tendencies. However, for individuals with eating-related challenges, the protective benefits of exercise were diminished. This suggests that while exercise is beneficial, its effectiveness in combating visceral fat is significantly enhanced when paired with healthy eating practices. Surprisingly, sleep quality did not emerge as a significant factor in this relationship. The findings highlight the importance of integrating both physical activity and balanced eating to effectively manage visceral fat and reduce inflammation.

Menopause and the Increased Risk of Metabolic Disorders

As women transition through menopause, changes in hormone levels cause shifts in fat distribution, leading to greater accumulation of visceral fat around the midsection. This type of fat is closely linked to low-grade inflammation, which increases the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. The study’s results indicate that these health risks become more pronounced after menopause, making it crucial for women to adopt preventive measures.

The research also explored the broader implications of menopause on women's health. On average, women spend over a third of their lives post-menopause, during which the risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases escalates. The study highlights that despite these challenges, it is still possible to mitigate the accumulation of harmful visceral fat and prevent associated health issues through lifestyle changes. By focusing on both physical activity and flexible eating behaviors, women can take proactive steps to protect their health during and after menopause. The study involved self-reported assessments of sleep, physical activity, and eating behaviors, using validated questionnaires to gather comprehensive data. It concluded that adopting a holistic approach to health behaviors can significantly reduce the risks associated with menopause.