Key points

• Changes in body weight during and after menopause are associated with both lifestyle factors and ageing, and the hormonal changes of menopause.
• Hormone changes at menopause are associated with a gain of body fat and a loss of
  lean body mass.
• Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) does not generally cause weight gain and there is good evidence MHT can reduce the accumulation of abdominal fat.
• Menopause is an opportunity to monitor health, manage weight and improve lifestyle to promote healthy ageing.
• Evidence-based lifestyle strategies, including sufficient sleep, a healthy diet, regular physical activity, stopping smoking, and limiting alcohol consumption, reduce the risk of the diseases of ageing and benefit women.