Is it normal to have weight fluctuations during perimenopause?

Yes, it is. Some people may find that their appetite changes during hormonal fluctuations, which can lead to changes in eating habits that lead to weight gain.

Also, due to these hormonal changes, your body’s insulin and metabolism levels can be affected, which may also contribute to increased weight.

In regards to fat distribution in your body, lower estrogen levels can cause your body to shift where it’s storing fat. Where before perimenopause it may have been more evenly distributed, during perimenopause fat may begin accumulating more around the abdomen.

This is often referred to as ‘menopause belly’ or ‘worry waist’, and it can occur without your weight even changing drastically. You should be mindful of excess visceral fat accumulation, as it can lead to health concerns due to fat being stored around your organs.