Losing weight during menopause

Menopause commonly changes sleep, appetite, activity, mood and body composition. Some people lose weight when hot flushes, night sweats, stress or digestive symptoms reduce appetite. Weight loss can also reflect an overactive thyroid, diabetes, medication effects, infection or another illness, so menopause should not automatically be used as the explanation.

Notice whether the change is intentional, how quickly it is happening, and whether it comes with thirst, frequent urination, diarrhoea, pain, fever, fatigue or mood changes. A clinician may review your history, medicines and nutrition and decide whether an examination or tests are useful.

Keep a simple record of meals, activity, weight changes and symptoms. Aim for regular meals containing protein, fibre and fluids, and choose gentle strength and weight-bearing activity if it is safe for you. Address sleep disruption from Night Sweats or Hot Flushes, since tiredness can alter appetite and movement.

Arrange a routine appointment if the loss is not intended, continues, or is affecting strength. Bring a list of medicines and supplements, recent illnesses, and any changes in bowel habits or periods.

Seek prompt medical advice for rapid or persistent unplanned loss, marked weakness, fainting, dehydration, trouble swallowing, ongoing vomiting, blood in stool, severe pain, fever or breathlessness. Seek urgent help for collapse, confusion or severe breathing difficulty.

Could a medicine, thyroid problem, blood-sugar change or another condition explain this loss? Which symptoms should make me contact you sooner? What eating and exercise pattern is appropriate for my health and menopause symptoms?