08/10/2023
Perimenopause Weight Gain Woke Me Up
Let’s be honest — for years, exercise felt like a chore. I thought if all my limbs and organs were working, I was “fine.” But then my hips started spreading. My clothes got tighter. I kept getting bigger, and I didn’t know why. Spoiler alert: it was perimenopause.
🔥 CSM Tip: Weight gain during perimenopause often shows up as increased abdominal fat due to hormonal shifts — especially declining estrogen and insulin resistance.
I Had to Start Somewhere
When I started exercising, it was anything but fun. I had to fit it into my busy schedule — which meant 5:00 AM workouts. I also had to face the real villain: my sugar addiction. I LOVE pastries! But cutting back on calories started with cutting back on sweets.
Eating for Energy — Not Just Taste
As I detoxed from sugar, I started logging everything I ate. That’s when I discovered how many empty calories I was consuming — like the maple syrup I drenched on my whole wheat pancakes.
🍁 CSM Tip: Don’t just cut calories—cut the empty ones. Focus on nutrient-dense foods high in protein, fiber, and healthy fats to support your menopause metabolism.
Food Labels Changed Everything
When I learned to read food labels, it was like putting on new glasses. I could finally see what was holding me back. Words like “whole grain” or “low-fat” didn’t mean “healthy.”
👉 Want to decode labels like a pro? Watch my YouTube video here:
Tracking Made Me Smarter, Not Obsessed
Writing down what I ate helped me see patterns — like grazing in the evening or skipping protein at breakfast. This wasn’t about restriction — it was about information. That’s when I realized: if I wanted to fuel fat loss after 50, I had to fuel my body better.
🧠 CSM Tip: Track before you attack. Logging helps you shift from emotional eating to empowered decision-making.
Movement Became My Playground
Treadmill workouts got old fast. So, I experimented. I climbed a rock wall, took yoga and Pilates, tried spin, boxing, and even swing dancing. Eventually, I became a racewalk champion!
🔁 CSM Tip: Your body craves novelty. Mixing cardio, strength training, and mobility exercises is the best way to support menopause metabolism and prevent plateaus.
More Energy, Better Sleep, a Stronger Body
As I stayed consistent, my reflection changed — and not just physically. My body fat dropped, my sleep improved, and my energy soared. My stamina rivaled 20-somethings, and I felt stronger than ever.
💤 CSM Tip: Strength training improves sleep and reduces cortisol. Both are crucial for reducing menopause belly fat and boosting recovery.
Final Word: Ditch the Excuses, Embrace the Upgrade
You don’t need to overhaul your life overnight. Just start with one step — one healthier food choice, one strength workout, one short walk, one quick label check. Let that one thing become a new rhythm.
And if you’re looking for a guide? I got you! Your Crazy Sexy Menopause circle is waiting for you.