Beyond the changes in body composition, estrogen decline may also lead to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body's cells struggle to respond effectively to insulin. This impairs the ability to regulate blood sugar and promotes fat storage, especially in the abdominal area. Over time, this can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. In fact, the American Heart Association highlights menopause as a critical period for women’s cardiovascular health, underscoring the medical—not just aesthetic—importance of managing menopausal weight gain.
