Diet and lifestyle in managing postmenopausal obesity.

The majority of adults are becoming increasingly overweight and one of the sub-populations in which this prevalence is growing most rapidly is postmenopausal women. It is as yet unclear whether the menopausal transition itself leads to weight gain, but it is known that the physiological withdrawal of estrogen brings about changes in fat distribution that increase the risk for the metabolic syndrome, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The treatment of postmenopausal obesity is very simple logically, but incredibly difficult - eat less and exercise more. Recent studies suggest that being active and fit is more important than losing weight; hence, a major recommendation is to exercise regularly, for at least 30 min on at least 5 days of the week, while maintaining a healthy balanced diet. Unfortunately, there are no 'magic bullets' (drugs) that may provide long-term treatment, and all diets work irrespective of their composition as long as people comply to them. There is no substitute for a sensible lifestyle.