Have you started to put on weight because of the menopause? Don't worry, we've created a brilliant diet to help you feel better and lose the pounds!

Many women dread the menopause but there's really no need as diet and lifestyle changes can make a big difference. You might experience hot flushes, mood swings, dry skin, weight gain and osteoporosis but what you eat can make a difference to these menopause symptoms. So we've devised a diet that will help you lose weight, to help combat the effects of the menopause and boost your intake of calcium, which can minimise your risk of osteoporosis.

Why have I put on weight?

The reason many women put on weight during the menopause is because as we get older our metabolism slows down, which means the body takes longer to burn off calories. Plus, our digestion changes and can become sluggish, which some nutritionists believe leads to IBS, allergies, weight gain, lack of energy and other digestive problems.

The other reason for weight gain during the menopause is because the body slows down, and in some cases stops, the production of oestrogen. Scientist don't quite fully understand the relationship between fat and oestrogen but they know it can contribute to weight gain.

By Louise O'Connell

• Next: How diet and exercise can help with the menopause

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