Elgin martial arts expert takes on issue of menopause weight gain
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AN ELGIN martial arts instructor will be tackling head-on the subject of menopause and related weight gain during an information event this month.
Kate Sansum was inspired to organise a "Lady Power Event", entitled "Menopause and weight gain – why it happens and how to deal with it", at Moray Sports Centre's Cobbs Cafe, on Sunday, January 26, after her own experience and research into coping with the transition.
As a wellness guide, Kate has attracted legions of followers on Facebook and her website www.katesansum.com. She said: "A large majority of my followers have one thing in common – they're going through the menopause younger than ever before."
She aims to equip women with strategies and information for "the change" – the average age now being 51 – but in her talk will focus specifically on the symptom of weight gain. She said: "The body reacts differently to diets and exercise during menopause, and techniques that have worked in the past no longer get the same results."
After more than 30 years instructing various fitness techniques and dance, Kate hopes to "explain why and how to work with your hormones and not against them".
She has devised a checklist of associated symptoms – Kate's Meno Map – which she says has "helped thousands of women across Scotland" through their first menopause-related GP visit. She said: "For most women the first visit to the doctor can be extremely traumatic mainly because of the stigma attached to the menopause.
"Most women don't know how to explain what they are going though and are often misdiagnosed. Doctors are doing their very best but, as we know, a 10-minute appointment is not long to get to the bottom of this complex range of symptoms.
"Historically, the menopause has not been given the research and awareness training it deserves, and doctors are not always equipped to guide women through this extremely difficult period in their lives."
Difficult enough, Kate points out, that 10 per cent of menopausal women seriously consider giving up their jobs and 30 per cent have take sick leave to cope with menopause symptoms, according to studies.
Kate added: "Women over the age of 50 are the fastest growing group in the workforce. As more women go through the menopause during their working lives, it's vital that employers encourage open discussion to ensure they get the right support.
"What we really need to do is help educate so that women can be supported better through this challenging time and have a healthier, happier menopause."
The free event is limited to 40 places, so booking is essential. Call Kate on 07775 918079 or email katesansum@gmail.com to book or for more information. To access Kate's Meno Map click here.
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