Does low estrogen cause weight gain?

According to WebMD, low estrogen levels contribute to weight gain. This happens because when estrogen levels drop, the body's metabolism slows down. In addition, a lack of estrogen prevents the body from processing sugar and starches efficiently, causing them to be stored as fat.

Low estrogen levels and the related weight gain are common in women going through menopause. WebMD suggests that women going through menopause exercise regularly to prevent weight gain and lose excess weight. In addition to lowering the risk factor for diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, regular exercise helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis, improves insulin resistance and helps alleviate depression and anxiety.