Latest news with #midlife
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Why Some Men Walk Away From Their Wives After Decades Together
Sometimes, after decades of shared experiences, laughter, and challenges, men decide to walk away from their marriages. It's a moment that can surprise everyone around them, leaving friends and family scrambling to understand what happened. While every marriage is unique, there are common threads that might explain why some men decide to leave. It's essential to recognize these reasons not to place blame but to foster understanding and, perhaps, create conversations that might prevent such an outcome. Here are 15 reasons why some men might choose this path. 1. They Start Craving Growth After years of being in a relationship, some men find themselves craving personal growth and new experiences. The routine of marriage may start to feel stifling, and they yearn for something more fulfilling. According to a study by Lisa Firestone, Ph.D., published in Psychology Today, many people experience a desire for self-discovery during midlife, which can lead to significant life changes. This desire often isn't about escaping the relationship but rather about exploring untapped potential or interests. Unfortunately, this pursuit sometimes requires distancing themselves from familiar surroundings, including their spouses. For many, the need for personal growth can be a catalyst for wanting a fresh start. This isn't to say that growth can't occur within a marriage, but some men may feel it necessitates stepping away from their current life. They might feel a renewed interest in hobbies, rekindling friendships, or even changing careers. These changes can lead to them evaluating their role within their marriage and whether it's compatible with their future aspirations. When the marriage no longer aligns with their personal goals, they may choose to walk away. 2. The Emotional Connection Is Gone Emotional intimacy can be as vital as physical connection, yet it's often overlooked. Over time, some men may feel that the emotional bond with their wives has weakened or even disappeared. They might find it difficult to communicate their feelings or feel their emotional needs are not being met. This can lead to a sense of loneliness, even when they're physically present in the relationship. Without addressing these feelings, they may start contemplating leaving to find a more fulfilling emotional connection elsewhere. Men often internalize their struggles with emotional intimacy, which can exacerbate the distance between couples. They may avoid discussing their feelings due to fear of conflict or not wanting to appear vulnerable. This can create a vicious cycle, where the lack of emotional connection leads to more withdrawal, further deepening the rift. It's not uncommon for unresolved emotional disconnection to eventually result in the end of a marriage. The absence of emotional interaction can make them feel like two strangers living under the same roof, prompting one to leave. 3. They're Experiencing Midlife Crisis The term "midlife crisis" is often joked about but can be a profound experience for many men. This phase typically brings about a strong urge to reassess life choices and consider different paths. According to psychologist Carl Jung, a midlife crisis can spark significant personal change, causing people to question their identity and purpose. During this period, some men might feel the need to reinvent themselves, which can lead to drastic decisions, such as leaving a marriage. They are often in search of something that reaffirms their vitality and relevance in the world. Navigating a midlife crisis can be tumultuous and might involve significant emotional upheaval. Men experiencing this often seek to make up for lost time, eager to pursue dreams or interests they previously set aside. This might mean pursuing activities that don't involve their current partner, leading to a sense of drifting apart. In some cases, the spouse becomes a symbol of the life they wish to change, making departure seem like the only option. Understanding and support can sometimes help weather this storm, but the pull to start anew can be compelling. 4. The Unresolved Conflicts Have Taken Their Toll Every relationship experiences conflict, but unresolved issues can fester over time, turning into deeper resentments. When conflicts remain unaddressed, they create emotional distance and can chip away at the foundation of the marriage. Some men might find themselves continually arguing over the same issues, feeling that no progress is made. This can be exhausting and lead to a sense of hopelessness about the relationship's future. Eventually, they might decide that the only way to escape this cycle is to leave the marriage altogether. In many cases, unresolved conflicts stem from a lack of effective communication. Men might feel their concerns are ignored, or they might not know how to express their feelings constructively. As these problems persist, they often start to affect other aspects of the relationship. Whether it's about finances, parenting, or lifestyle choices, repeated arguments can sour the shared environment. The decision to leave might be seen as a last resort to find peace and avoid ongoing tension. 5. They Feel Undervalued And Unloved Feeling appreciated is crucial in any relationship, and when men feel undervalued, it can significantly impact their sense of worth. A study by Terri Orbuch, Ph.D., at the University of Michigan, suggests that feeling appreciated by one's partner is a strong predictor of marital satisfaction. When appreciation diminishes, some men may start to feel overlooked and taken for granted. This feeling can build up over time, resulting in frustration and a desire for something different. They may seek out situations or relationships where they feel more acknowledged. Feeling undervalued can manifest in various ways, such as not being recognized for contributions or feeling ignored in decision-making. Men who feel like they are continuously giving without receiving any acknowledgment can experience a decline in motivation to maintain the relationship. Over time, this imbalance can lead to dissatisfaction and a lack of fulfillment within the marriage. While communication can often resolve these feelings, the absence of acknowledgment can create a chasm. Ultimately, the desire to feel valued and seen can drive men to seek new beginnings elsewhere. 6. They're Having An Affair Infidelity is a breach of trust that can have lasting repercussions on a marriage. When one partner steps outside the marriage, it can create irreparable damage to the relationship. For some men, infidelity might be a symptom of already existing issues, such as dissatisfaction or lack of intimacy. This act can be both a reason and a consequence of wanting to leave, creating a complex emotional landscape. In many cases, once trust is broken, it becomes a challenge to restore the marriage to its former state. The reasons behind infidelity are varied and complex, often intertwined with unmet needs or personal struggles. Some men might stray due to seeking validation, excitement, or an escape from routine. Whatever the cause, infidelity can lead to guilt, shame, and a reassessment of the marriage's viability. For the betrayed partner, rebuilding trust might seem insurmountable, further driving the wedge between them. This breach can ultimately lead to the decision to leave, either because reconciliation seems impossible or as a way to escape the situation entirely. 7. They Have Different Life Goals Life goals and personal ambitions can evolve significantly over time, sometimes leading to a divergence between partners. When men and their spouses find themselves on different paths, it can create tension and dissatisfaction. A study published in the Journal of Marriage and Family by Dr. Scott Stanley found that shared goals and values are crucial for long-term marital satisfaction. When these goals no longer align, it can feel like the two are heading in opposite directions. This realization can prompt one, or both, to question the continued compatibility of the marriage. The disconnect in life goals can manifest in various ways, such as differing views on career aspirations, parenting, or lifestyle choices. Men might feel held back or unsupported in their ambitions, creating a rift in the relationship. As these differences become more pronounced, they can lead to resentment and a sense of being misunderstood. Over time, the gap may widen to the point where it feels irreconcilable. In these situations, leaving might seem like the only option to pursue their intended path without compromise. 8. The Financial Stress Has Become Too Much Financial stress is a common strain on relationships and can lead to significant marital discord. For some men, ongoing financial struggles can be a heavy burden that affects their overall well-being. Money problems can lead to frequent arguments, blame, and a sense of failure. The pressure to provide or manage finances can weigh heavily, especially if financial goals are not aligned. Over time, this stress can take a toll on the relationship, leading some to decide that separating is the best way to alleviate the burden. The impact of financial stress is not just limited to the bank account; it often bleeds into emotional and physical health. Men who constantly worry about finances might experience anxiety, depression, or a sense of inadequacy. This can strain the marriage further, as they might withdraw from their partner or become irritable. When financial issues seem insurmountable, leaving the marriage might appear as a way to start fresh and manage financial challenges independently. The hope is often to find a situation where financial stress is lessened, making life more manageable. 9. They Feel A Loss Of Identity Marriage can sometimes lead to a loss of individual identity, with people feeling subsumed by their roles as spouses or parents. Over time, some men might feel disconnected from their sense of self, longing for an identity outside the marriage. This loss can lead to feelings of dissatisfaction and a desire to rediscover who they are. They might start seeking out activities or relationships that allow them to reconnect with their personal identity. In some cases, this desire for self-exploration can prompt them to leave the marriage in search of a more fulfilling existence. The struggle with identity loss can come from various aspects, such as career changes, retirement, or simply the passage of time. Men may feel that their personal needs and desires have been sidelined in favor of family obligations. This internal conflict can create tension within the marriage, as they may feel misunderstood or unsupported in their journey of self-discovery. The need to reclaim their identity can become a powerful motivator to make significant life changes. Leaving the marriage might be seen as a necessary step towards finding themselves again. 10. Their Health Issues Have Shaken Them Up Health issues, whether physical or mental, can put considerable strain on a marriage. When one partner struggles with health problems, it can alter the dynamics of the relationship significantly. Some men might feel overwhelmed by the added responsibilities or the changes in lifestyle that health issues bring. This can lead to feelings of frustration, helplessness, or even resentment over time. In such situations, they might choose to walk away, seeking relief from the stressors that accompany dealing with ongoing health concerns. Dealing with health issues can also bring about emotional challenges, such as anxiety or depression. Men might struggle to cope with these feelings, particularly if they feel unsupported or unable to communicate their struggles. The pressure to maintain normalcy while managing health issues can create a rift in the relationship. They might feel guilty for their inability to provide support or ashamed of their struggles. Ultimately, the decision to leave might stem from a belief that it's the only way to deal with the overwhelming circumstances. 11. The Boredom Is Unbearable Boredom might seem trivial, but it can significantly affect the relationship's dynamics over time. When life becomes a series of routines and predictable patterns, some men might find themselves yearning for excitement and novelty. They might feel like they're stuck in a rut, with the marriage lacking the spark it once had. This desire for change and adventure can sometimes drive them to seek it outside the confines of the marriage. Boredom, if left unaddressed, can fester into dissatisfaction and lead to the contemplation of leaving. The monotony of daily life can dull the once vibrant connection that existed between partners. Men may feel that the relationship has become mundane, with little room for spontaneity or new experiences. This sense of stagnation can lead to restlessness, prompting them to explore new interests or relationships. While the grass isn't always greener on the other side, the allure of something different can be compelling. Ultimately, the pursuit of excitement and novelty might lead them to step away from the marriage in search of something that reignites their passion for life. 12. They Grew Apart Years Ago Over time, people evolve, and their interests, values, and priorities can change. For some men, this natural progression leads to a realization that they have grown apart from their spouse. They might find themselves with little in common with their partner, feeling more like roommates than a couple. This growing apart can result in a lack of connection and understanding, creating an emotional distance that's hard to bridge. As the gap widens, they might decide that leaving is the best course of action to find a relationship that aligns better with who they have become. The feeling of growing apart often sneaks up gradually, making it hard to pinpoint when things started to change. Men might notice that their conversations lack depth or that shared activities no longer bring joy. This gradual drift can create a sense of loneliness, even within the partnership. Without conscious effort to reconnect and rediscover common ground, the relationship can feel empty. In these situations, leaving might seem like the only way to pursue a connection that feels more authentic and fulfilling. 13. They're Influenced By Other People External relationships, whether friendships or family connections, can have a profound impact on a marriage. Influences from outside the marriage can create tension, especially if boundaries are unclear. Some men might feel torn between these relationships and their spouse, leading to conflict and resentment. Over time, these external pressures can strain the marriage, making it difficult to maintain a harmonious relationship. The decision to leave might stem from a desire to escape these external influences and find peace. Navigating external relationships requires a delicate balance of loyalty and boundaries. Men might feel that they are constantly mediating between their spouse and other important people in their lives. This can create stress and tension, as they might feel they are not meeting anyone's expectations fully. The pressure to maintain harmony can be overwhelming, leading to feelings of frustration and inadequacy. Ultimately, leaving might be seen as a way to alleviate the stress and prioritize personal well-being. 14. Their Love Life Is Non-Existent Physical intimacy plays a vital role in fostering closeness and connection within a marriage. When physical affection diminishes, it can create a sense of distance and dissatisfaction. Some men might feel rejected or undesirable when their partner shows little interest in physical intimacy. This absence can lead to feelings of loneliness and a longing for physical connection. Over time, the lack of intimacy can become a significant issue, prompting them to consider leaving the marriage. The decline in physical intimacy often coincides with other relationship stresses, creating a cycle of resentment and withdrawal. Men might feel frustrated and disconnected, impacting their self-esteem and emotional well-being. This can lead to misunderstandings and a breakdown in communication, further eroding the relationship. Addressing these challenges often requires open dialogue and a willingness to reconnect. However, if the situation remains unresolved, they might decide that leaving is the only way to fulfill their physical and emotional needs. 15. The Mutual Respect Has Left The Building Mutual respect is the cornerstone of any healthy relationship, and without it, a marriage can quickly deteriorate. Some men might find themselves in situations where respect has eroded, whether through constant criticism, belittling, or disregard for boundaries. This lack of respect can lead to a toxic environment, where one or both partners feel undervalued and hurt. Over time, this can lead to resentment and a desire to escape the negativity. Leaving might be seen as a way to restore their sense of dignity and find a more respectful partnership. The erosion of respect often stems from unresolved conflicts and poor communication. Criticism and disrespect can become habitual, creating a negative cycle that's difficult to break. Men might feel helpless and trapped, with their efforts to improve the situation going unacknowledged. The absence of respect can make the relationship feel more like a battleground than a partnership. In such cases, leaving might appear to be the only viable option to find peace and a relationship built on mutual respect. Solve the daily Crossword


Daily Mail
3 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Menopause made my hair fall out. Then I discovered a new hair-loss solution. This is the secret ALL midlife women need to know
For me, midlife has brought various indignities, as well as many joys. But standing over a sink to count the number of hairs that had come out in my brush one morning has to be among the more distressing aspects. For the record, it was 201. And why was I counting them? Because I'd searched 'how to tell if your hair is falling out' online – and according to Dr Google, anything over 100 strands was a cause for concern.


Daily Mail
23-07-2025
- Health
- Daily Mail
Save 60% on the 28-day fasting challenge helping thousands of midlife women shed stubborn pounds fast
Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more At any age, weight loss can be a challenge. Throw in the hormonal and physiological changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause, though, and it can seem almost impossible. With the right program, you can actually find your way to success. That's what thousands who joined the Reverse Health 28-day fasting challenge discovered. At 60 percent off (just 56 cents a day!), it's an amazing value. Reverse Health 28-Day Fasting Challenge Four weeks to a healthier, fitter, and more confident you! This program is designed to meet the needs of midlife women. Hormonal fluctuations can make weight loss a challenge, but through a carefully scheduled fasting plan, coupled with delicious recipes and invaluable support and education, you can feel better than ever in just 28 days. The benefits of fasting are unmatched! Your body shifts from burning glucose to burning stored fat, helping you lose weight. It can also stabilize blood sugar and even improve your mood and sleep quality. Sign up today for 60 percent off (that's just $15.65, or 56 cents a day). Save 60% Shop It's time to feel your best, and there is no time like now to get started on the Reverse Health fasting challenge Designed specifically to help women in midlife, the program takes a personalized approach to helping you shed unwanted pounds and improve your overall health. It's the combination of the two that is so vital to your wellbeing, especially during this transitional period of life when the body undergoes so many dramatic changes. Intermittent fasting can play a significant role in helping your body handle them. Fasting doesn't have to be a challenge thanks to this manageable program that's tailored to your specific needs Studies have found that by fasting, you can manage your weight more efficiently. It's not even just a theory. Centuries ago, people wouldn't eat for hours upon hours while they hunted and gathered for their next meal. Between the larger portions and the tempting snacks at every turn, though, food culture has obviously evolved. But fasting still exists, and it can be a great way to control how your body responds to your food intake. Under normal circumstances, your body uses glucose as its primary source of energy. When there's no more glucose left to burn though, your body shifts to mobilizing your stored fat. That's the key to weight loss — but there are other benefits to fasting, too, like reducing blood sugar, supporting heart health, and even boosting memory and sleep. The beauty of the Reverse Health is that it's tailored specifically to your body's changing needs during perimenopause and menopause. Packed with features, the Reverse Health app has all that you need to enjoy a successful challenge, including meal tips, reminders, trackers, and more Because estrogen drops during this time, it can affect how you respond to fasting. That's taken into account when creating your schedule, which is specifically designed to help you meet your personal goals. And you get a built-in support system, with helpful features like timers to help you stick to good habits and useful videos that teach you all about fasting and its impact on hormonal inflammation, along with access to the Reverse Health community. That's on top of other extras, like healthy recipes to enjoy during your eating windows, tips to support your overall wellness, and the kind of motivation you need to stick to the program and see results. Within just 28 days, you could both see and feel an incredible difference! Your confidence and health are worth it. Get started and enjoy 60 percent off when you join the Reverse Health 28-day fasting challenge today.
Yahoo
18-07-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
The Latest Thinking on Protein (Again!)
Last year, everyone seemed to discover how important protein is—especially for women over 40. To counter the effects of declines in estrogen (hello, reduced muscle mass and weight gain), a growing number of experts encouraged midlife women to get more of the macronutrient than the USDA's recommended dietary allowance. But have the pro-protein recs gone too far? More from Flow Space Is Fiber the New Protein? Some say yes. 'While protein is an all-important component [for women in midlife], the conversation has swung a little too far in one direction,' says Michelle Routhenstein, a preventive cardiology nutritionist, registered dietitian nutritionist and member of the Medical Advisory Committee for the National Menopause Foundation. So, how much protein should you actually be aiming for to feel your best in midlife? Here's what you need to know about striking the right balance. Why Protein Matters in Midlife There's good reason to prioritize protein as you get older. As you move closer to menopause, a sharp drop in the hormone estrogen signals metabolic changes that promote fat storage (especially abdominal fat) while making it harder to build and maintain lean muscle mass. The result? You begin to burn fewer calories, which can set the stage for weight gain. These changes can also contribute to low-level inflammation that may raise the risk for health problems like heart disease, osteoarthritis and even some cancers. Protein can help counter these effects. 'Getting enough protein is one of the most effective ways to help maintain strength, mobility and bone health—especially as we age,' says Taiyyibah Moughal, a performance-focused registered dietitian nutritionist and founder of The Beast Dietitian based in New York. 'It also helps with metabolism and keeps us feeling full, which can support better eating habits overall.' Indeed, research suggests that perimenopausal and menopausal women who follow high-protein diets tend to lose less muscle mass and gain less weight compared to those who don't prioritize the macronutrient. Higher-protein diets have also been shown to support bone health. So, How Much Protein Should You Actually Be Eating? Most experts are in agreement that getting enough protein in midlife is a good thing. But what does 'enough' actually mean? The USDA's current standard recommendation of 0.8 g of protein per kg of body weight, or around 54 grams of protein for a 150-pound women, 'is honestly the bare minimum,' Moughal says. In other words, we can—and should—be doing better. But when you're constantly being bombarded with advice to have more, more, more, it's easy to assume that the best move is to try to sneak in as much protein as humanly possible. When midlife fitness influencers are touting 150+ grams of protein per day as a reasonable goal, meals consisting of chicken breast tucked into an egg white wrap (they're a thing!) washed down with a protein shake might seem like a genius idea. In fact, the ideal amount of protein for women who are moving towards or have passed menopause is probably somewhere in the middle. While your specific needs depend on your activity level and whether you're actively trying to build muscle mass, research suggests that it's worth aiming for between 1 and 1.2 grams of protein per kg of body weight in your 40s, 50s and beyond. For a 150-pound woman, that's between 68 and 81 grams of protein per day. Some experts believe that a little more would be even better. 'Women over 40 often benefit from closer to 1.2 to 1.6 grams of protein per kg of body weight per day (between 81 and 108 grams for a 150-pound woman) to preserve muscle mass and support metabolic health,' Routhenstein says. That adds up to around 25 to 30 grams of protein per meal, with another 10 to 20 or so grams from snacks. The Downside of Consuming Too Much Protein As with most things that are deemed good for you, it's easy to fall into the trap of more equals better. But the truth is, very high protein diets can come with some downsides. A few biggies worth highlighting: Weight Gain: Adequate protein intake supports a healthy weight, but it's not a magic bullet. 'Too much protein can push your calorie intake up without you realizing it, especially if you're adding shakes and bars on top of meals,' which can actually lead to weight gain, Moughal says. If you want to lose weight on a high-protein diet, you still need to keep your calories in check. Constipation: Prioritizing high protein foods might mean you're eating fewer high-fiber ones, like whole grains, fruits and veggies. At the same time, 'overdoing protein can also increase the risk of dehydration, since processing it creates more waste the kidneys need to flush out,' Routhenstein says. That combo can leave you backed up and bloated. More Saturated Fat and Salt: This one's not a given, but it can be if you're eating a lot of animal protein and processed protein sources (like shakes and meat snacks), Moughal points out. That's a big deal, since salty, saturated fat-rich diets can up your risk for heart disease—which already rises during menopause. Striking the Right Balance To reap all of the benefits that protein has to offer without going overboard, here are a few more tips to keep in mind: Look at your protein amount in each meal or snack. No need to do a protein shake or bar along with that beef salad. Having mega-amounts of protein at one meal (think 40+ grams) isn't any more beneficial than spreading it out throughout the day. Say yes to real food. 'Most women don't need to live on protein powders to meet their needs,' Moughal says. 'Build your meals around whole sources—like eggs, yogurt, fish, beans, lentils or tofu,' instead. Prioritize plant proteins. Pick options like beans, soy foods, nuts and seeds more often. They come with added nutrients like fiber, Routhenstein points out. Plus, eating fewer animal proteins may help manage menopause symptoms like hot flashes. The bottom line? Protein matters more than ever after 40. But it's not the only important nutrient, and if you're upping your protein intake for the sake of your health, going too far could potentially backfire. 'The goal is enough, not excess,' Routhenstein says.


The Sun
17-07-2025
- Lifestyle
- The Sun
From shapewear to peplums and pleats – my top eight ways to dress a ‘midlife tum'
IT is the tricky area where stubborn fat is difficult to shift – especially in mid-life. Forums such as Mumsnet are full of women asking how to dress their tummies. 13 It's an issue for all sizes, as hormonal and metabolic changes in forties and beyond lead to fat being redistributed to the stomach area. But don't despair, stylist Claire Hall, 52, one half of social media duo Rants and Big Pants, reveals her tips and tricks for dressing a midlife tum. START UNDERNEATH FOR every outfit, it's important to start with a good base. A lot of women hate the words ' control underwear ', but shapewear is so clever now so there is nothing to fear. It's not constricting, you can breathe in it and there are so many variations. Even if you just buy a smoothing pair of pants it's going to help you feel more confident because you'll have a smooth silhouette with no digging in or discomfort. If it digs in it's going to create a bump somewhere so you need to look for shaping knickers that go above your waistline and hold everything in rather than the sorts that like squashing you. I really like high-waisted tights and shorts because they smooth you out from the top of your waistline down to your thighs. DON'T HIDE YOUR TUM 13 WHEN it comes to tums, I always say this, it's not about hiding your tummy. Lots of women say 'Oh, I want to hide my tummy ' but unless you're going to wear a tent, it's generally impossible. The key is to balance your stomach out with the rest of your outfit. I'm a plus sized style guru - how to hide your stomach easily and fashionably WITHOUT uncomfortable shapewear It's about drawing attention away from it and creating other focal points and not making it the centre-piece of your whole silhouette. You want to create an hourglass silhouette – think strong shoulder line and then some volume on the lower half, with a defined middle. DITCH THE SKINNY JEANS 13 WIDE leg trousers create really good balance for a tummy. If you imagine a lady in a pair of skinny jeans, her midsection is going to be the main thing on show, whereas if she were in a wide-leg pair of jeans or trousers, that wide leg completely balances out her tummy, so it's not the focal point as a result. A flat-panelled pair of trousers are the best. You're looking for a wide leg with a side fastening, so there is no detail at all on the tummy. It makes the stomach area very smooth. PLEATS ARE PLEASING WHEN it comes to skirts, don't shy away from pleats – they can be helpful. Some women say they can't wear pleats because they create too much bulk over my tummy, but there are so many different styles of pleats. If you get pleats that lie flat, and are positioned centrally rather than wide, they will actually visually narrow that area. Again, look for A-line shapes. They are comfortable and will elongate your body and show off the narrowest part - your waist. If you think you haven't got a waist, just create one with a skirt that sits on top of your hips around your middle, drawing the eye away from your lower stomach. FOLLOW THE RULE OF 3 THERE are three things you must look out for when choosing a dress. The first is a strong shape in the shoulders – such as a frill detail or puff sleeve. Secondly, opt for an A-line shaped skirt. The longer your skirt is, the better the balance. If it's a shorter skirt, it's not going to give so much balance for your tummy. Thirdly, look for waistline detail. This can be some on-trend shearing, a waist panel or darts. You want to create a feature of the waist – a belt will work too – to create an hourglass figure with a balanced top and bottom. Ruching on the side of a dress, around the waist, is also brilliant for drawing attention away from the tummy. The material also disguises the stomach because of the gathered detail. PLUMP FOR A PEPLUM MANY of us are scared to tuck our tops in or show off our waistline because we feel that our tummy is exposed. But the waistline is quite far above your tummy area and will become the focal point as you are drawing attention away from the stomach area to a narrower point. Even though it does feel as though you are slightly exposed by tucking in a T-shirt or a blouse, it really helps to make a more defined shape. Alternatively, try a peplum. There are loads of them around and the style is great because you have the waist detail as well as the peplum of fabric, which sits over the tummy area. As it is part of the design, it looks intentional but it also hides what's underneath. FIND WHAT SUITS YOU IT has never been better for women to shop for swimsuits with tummy control, shaping, and sculpting. My advice is to try them to see what feels right for you. With a bikini, choosing the right one depends on your body shape and where it sits. Everyone's tummy is in a different position. For some, the protrusion is quite high up on their frame while for others it is quite low down. If it is low down, I would avoid a low-waisted or low-slung bikini bottom because everything is just going to hang over the top. You want to be looking for a high-waisted cut. V-front bikini bottoms also work wonders as the shape slims down the tummy area by visually lengthening the torso. Also consider sizing up. This avoids the material digging in and making you uncomfortable. AND SIZE DOESN'T MATTER A LOT of women hate the thought of having to wear a dress size bigger but if you size up, the garment hangs better on you. Say you have a pair of darted trousers, when they're a little snug the pleat from the dart is going to pull and become wider. This will really emphasise everything you are trying to flatten. Whereas, if you were to size up, it would hang so much better. The same rule applies with a skirt or a jumpsuit, or even a dress. The garment will hang a lot nicer if it is perhaps a size bigger.