Nancy Dell: Menopause & Belly Fat; Pumpkin seeds benefit; Almond Calories

CHICOPEE, Mass. (WWLP) -  

1. I am going through menopause and have not gained weight but have added some belly fat. Is this inevitable? What can I do to stop it?
Debbie, Internet

According to a new study conducted by the International Menopause Society, menopause does not cause weight gain, but it does increase belly fat.

The researchers say that there is no doubt that the new spare tire many women complain of after menopause is real. It is the body's response to the fall in estrogen at menopause and fat will shift from the hips to the waist.

So what can you do to minimize the belly fat associated with menopause?

Here are 8 things to do:

Avoid sugar, white flour, and hydrogenated oil. Minimize your saturated animal fat found in whole milk and cheese as well as fatty meats. Manage your stress, and get good sleep and exercise.

What about estrogen replacement therapy? The review found that estrogen therapy can prevent abdominal fat from building after menopause. This is something to discuss with your doctor because there are risks associated with taking estrogen replacement.

2. We are carving pumpkins. What health benefits do the seeds have?
Tim, Internet

Pumpkin seeds are packed with the mineral magnesium.

Magnesium can reduce your risk of osteoporosis, high blood pressure, heart disease and diabetes as well as minimize migraines and improve your sleep.

So keep the pumpkin seeds and go online to find directions on roasting them.

3. Which nuts have the fewest calories?
Kris, Internet

Right now I would need to say almonds.

USDA recently used a more precise method to measure calories in food that looks at how much food is actually digested and absorbed.

A one ounce serving of almonds used to label 160 calories. Now it is 20 percent less at 129 calories.

As other nuts get tested, we may find the same result..