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Writer's pictureSerina Gardner

Why does a woman's metabolism change with age?

Yes sadly, metabolism generally slows with age in women, although the rate and reasons for this vary depending on life stage and lifestyle factors. Here’s a breakdown of how and why metabolism changes over time:



1. Late 20s to Early 30s

  • Changes Begin: Around the late 20s, a subtle decline in metabolic rate often starts. This is partly because muscle mass, which burns more calories than fat, begins to decrease slightly if it isn’t maintained with regular strength training.

2. Late 30s to 40s

  • Noticeable Slowdown: By the late 30s and 40s, the decline in muscle mass and bone density may become more noticeable, especially if there’s little resistance training or physical activity. Women in this age range might notice it’s easier to gain weight and harder to lose it compared to their 20s.

  • Hormonal Shifts: Early hormonal changes, particularly those affecting estrogen, can also start influencing body composition and fat storage, especially around the midsection.

3. Perimenopause (Late 40s to Early 50s)

  • More Pronounced Slowdown: Perimenopause can trigger a more significant metabolic slowdown. With estrogen declining, the body can become more prone to storing fat (especially abdominal fat) and less efficient at burning calories. Muscle mass tends to decrease more quickly, accelerating the decline in metabolism.

  • Higher Likelihood of Insulin Resistance: Decreased estrogen can also make insulin resistance more likely, meaning the body may process sugars less effectively, leading to weight gain and a slower metabolic rate.

4. Postmenopause (50s and Beyond)

  • Further Decline: After menopause, women experience a steeper drop in estrogen, and metabolism can slow further as the body adjusts to lower hormone levels.

  • Increased Focus on Muscle: Maintaining muscle mass through strength training becomes even more important to support metabolism, bone health, and overall physical resilience.

Factors That Influence Metabolism Slowdown in Women

  • Muscle Mass: Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest, so as muscle mass naturally decreases with age, metabolism slows.

  • Hormonal Changes: Estrogen and progesterone levels, especially during perimenopause and menopause, influence where the body stores fat and how it processes energy.

  • Activity Level: Staying active, particularly with strength training, helps counteract age-related muscle loss and metabolic decline.

  • Dietary Choices: Protein-rich diets and nutrient-dense foods can help maintain muscle mass and support metabolism.

Supporting a Healthy Metabolism with Age

Focusing on strength training, protein intake, and staying active can help mitigate some of the age-related metabolic slowdown. These habits become especially important during perimenopause and postmenopause, as they help preserve lean muscle and manage energy balance.

If you require assistance with these modifications, please get in touch or schedule an appointment. You can also visit my "Friends of Nourishe" page to see the gyms I collaborate with to promote muscle and fitness health goals.

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