I maybe can answer the metabolism question! I had forced menopause a bit less than ten years ago. I was slightly over 30 so they put me on HRT. After the surgery, I have had problems with weight and my middle being thicker than it was before.

Am not sure if it relates but while I was never tiny, I never ever had the problems I do now!!!! They are also decreasing HRT because of the health risks so I don't know what'll happen now.