9 Cancer Risk Exercise decreases the risk for many cancers. Physically active women have less ovarian, uterine and colon cancer when compared to sedentary women. Exercise may offer this protection partly by lengthening the menstrual cycle, which greatly decreases overall exposure to estrogen and progesterone. 28 Weight Gain Weight gain and accumulation of fat are common among perimenopausal women due to aging and inactivity. Weight gain has not been causally linked to menopause, but it is a problem for many women in the perimenopausal age range.
Overweight people are at greater risk for cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Experts believe the increased weight gain that occurs during middle age is not due to changing hormones, but rather to a loss of muscle mass and the accompanying decline in metabolic rate. 30 Aerobic and resistance exercise, which increase energy expenditure and lean body mass, are the most effective ways to treat this problem. Mental Health Regular physical activity also benefits mental well-being. 6-8 Perimenopausal women often complain of severe mood swings. The body produces high amounts of natural opiates called endorphins during exercise and account for the phenomenon known as runner's high.