How Much Is Too Much?

Many American adults gain about 20 pounds between the ages of 25 and 55. This weight gain generally peaks in the early 40s for men and in the 50s for women. For people who were overweight in early adulthood, continuing to gain weight throughout middle age can create problems.

Concern about added pounds goes beyond the aesthetic. According to research, the risk for some health problems begins to rise when adults gain more than 10 pounds after age 18. An 11-pound gain—just 1 pound's difference—may significantly increase the risk of diabetes and heart disease. Weight gain after menopause also can increase a woman's risk of breast cancer.

The good news is that middle-age weight gain is not a certain fate. While our metabolism does slow with age, the effects can be countered with exercise, healthy diet changes, or a combination of the two.