Visceral Adipose Tissue Mobilization

The "Menopause Belly" Shift

Prior to menopause, estrogen directs fat storage to subcutaneous depots (hips and thighs). As estrogen plummets, the body shifts to an androgen-dominant storage pattern, depositing fat deep within the abdomen (Visceral Adipose Tissue or VAT). This is not just cosmetic; VAT is metabolically active tissue that releases inflammatory cytokines.

Mechanism: Catecholamine Resistance

Visceral fat cells have a higher density of Cortisol receptors and Alpha-2 adrenergic receptors (the "anti-burn" receptors). High stress (Cortisol) essentially locks this fat in place. Standard calorie deficits often fail here because the hormonal environment signals "storage mode."