Q: I'm a year past menopause and for the first time I have belly fat. I've also gained weight. How can I reverse this trend and lose the fat? — Lanny F., Portland, OR

You're not alone; almost 75% of women over age 55 in the U.S. are overweight or obese. Combating that is a priority for maximizing your length and — most importantly — your quality of life.

Why You May Gain Fat After Menopause

One of the reasons older women gain weight is that blood levels of estradiol, a form of estrogen, decline measurably after menopause. That change in estradiol also changes one of its metabolites — testosterone (yes, women have testosterone). Together they alter how you burn calories and manage fat. Researchers have found, however, that hormone levels aren't the only thing in decline.