Eating less and exercising more does not help with weight gain in perimenopause. It can actually backfire. Here’s what works instead.

In this episode, I talk with registered dietitian and holistic nutritionist Betsy Markle about why traditional dieting stops working in perimenopause and what actually supports metabolism during midlife. We unpack why the old “calories in calories out” advice fails so many women, how fluctuating hormones impact blood sugar, cravings, sleep, and weight gain, and why restriction often makes everything worse.

We also talk about what a metabolism-first approach looks like in this phase of life, including balanced meals, stabilizing blood sugar, reducing stress hormones, and making mindset shifts that feel supportive instead of punishing.

If you’ve noticed new belly fat, stubborn weight gain, low energy, joint pain or intense cravings despite healthy habits, this episode will help you understand what’s going on and how to work with your body instead of against it.

In this episode, we cover:

•Why dieting backfires in perimenopause

•What metabolism actually means in midlife

•How hormones affect blood sugar, cravings, and fat storage

•Why restriction increases stress hormones

•How balanced meals support energy and mood

•When women typically start feeling better

Connect with Betsy: SunshineWellnessInstitute.com | @betsywellness

⭐️ If this episode helped you, please follow the show, leave a 5-star rating, and write a quick review on Apple Podcasts. It helps me bring on more badass guests like Betsy with so much wisdom to share!

I want to hear from you. Send me a text!

✨ I share more personal stories, products, recipes, books, discounts and all kinds of goodness with my email subscriber friends. Join the fun and I'll send you my 3 favorite smoothie recipes to get you started!

For more midlife musings: @midlifeadvicepodcast | @belongwellness
For how we can work together: belongwellness.com