OMG ladies, I can’t believe I’m about to say this to you but I have noticed I’m getting the menopause muffin top! Can I just say one more thing? This totally sucks!
I never had a washboard abs to begin with but I’ve seen my mid-section slowly expanding and it’s time I sound the alarm!
I did a quick self-check to try and figure out what’s going on and found nothing. My eating habits haven’t changed and I workout at least three days a week. So what gives?
If you can relate, can I get an uh-huh?!
Why We Get A Muffin Top During Perimenopause and Menopause
I was on webmd.com looking for an explanation of the dreaded muffin top. Ladies, it seems this is perfectly normal. As we go through perimenopause and menopause our estrogen levels drop and body fat is distributed to our hips, thighs, our booty, and yep you guessed it, our midsection.
Besides not fitting into our favorite pair of jeans, too much belly fat can ultimately lead to health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
But not to worry ladies…
It’s Not Too Late To Do Something About It
Before we press the panic button decide on something drastic and expensive such as a tummy tuck, there are some things we can try first and it won’t cost us a thing.
Here is what I like to call the three P’s to battle the menopause muffin top. If you’re ready to fight the battle of the belly bulge read on for details!
Physical Exercise
I’m not a fan of working out but I do it because I know I need to keep my body moving to keep from packing on the pounds.
Rev up your workout routine to include abdominal exercises. Killer workouts like the Side Plank and the Love Handle Crunch will definitely help keep the muffin top at bay. For details on how to do these moves check out US Weekly’s Kelly Rowland’s Ab Workout.
Even when you’re on the go and may not be able to fit in a 30 minute exercise, you can always find something online to squeeze in a quick workout. Last month I shared a 7 minute yoga video for a stress-free workday.
Adriene also created a Yoga for abs video that we can do in six minutes. I have the video right here. I’ve tried it and I can definitely feel the burn!
Portion Control
I’m not into diets. Instead I believe in eating in moderation and making healthier food choices like fruits, vegetables and staying away from bad carbs like breads and sugary foods.
It pains me to say this because I love my soda, but staying away from colas will avoid having that puffy look not to mention feeling bloated.
emPower The Mind
Last but not least, empowering the mind because that’s where it all starts. For discipline and perseverance we have to find strength with thoughts of self-love and self-recognition and by that I mean doing the happy dance for losing even one pound!
You can also use a visual. Buy a pair of jeans in the size that you want and hang it in your closet where you can see it. Let it remind you of your goal and oh how great it will feel to slip into them!
Bonus: Find What Motivates You
I love a cupcake so I allow myself a free day to eat a one as a way to reward myself for sticking to my meal plan and exercise routing throughout the week. If I miss a workout or eat something I shouldn’t have, I lose my free day.
If money is a motivator there are also apps that pay you for working out.
Let’s Chat
Are you currently in a menopause muffin battle? What are you doing to win the fight? Tell us about it in the comments section below.
Here’s to winning the battle ladies!
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