Why do women gain more weight in their stomach during menopause?

Hormonal changes during menopause don't cause weight gain. But, with these changes, women tend to gain more weight around their middle. This type of weight gain increases the risk of many illnesses, including heart disease and stroke. Lifestyle and genetic issues can also be a factor with how and where you gain weight as you get older. You can't change your genetics, but you can change your lifestyle for improved health.