Gaining weight with peri-menapause

HELP,  I am so happy to start the menopause trail, but I have gained 8 pounds and can not get it off.  I am desperate!!!!!!  does any one have any suggestions.  I have gone back to the beginning and start my day with a protein drink.  I am working with my fitpal, I exercise (maybe not enough).  I am feeling so defeated, which only wants me to eat more.  I'm scared my pouch is getting bigger, sometimes I can eat more than ever.  need a friend :(

Surgery?   Surgery date?   Hard to give advice when we don't have any information!

There is only one answer, less calories.  Drink more water and unsweetened drinks.  It sucks to get old and have your body be able to live on so few calories, so make every one of them count, lean meat and cheese, fresh organic vegetables, greek yogurt and fresh fruit.  Everything you put in your mouth should enhance your health, no junk, no white carbs, no processed foods.

 You really have answered your own question. Don't blame menopause. I say this as kindly as possible. You are eating too much. I am 12 years post op, at goal and what helps me is exercise. I ride a bike. Less food, more exercise and you will be fine. Hugs

Exercise is great but will not make you lose weight if you are eating too many calories.  What works for me is weighing myself every morning and never going into denial about how much I weigh.  I exercise, count calories and eat less if my weight goes up even by one or two pounds.