Episode 19: Intermittent Fasting for Women Over 40 — When It Helps and When It Backfires

Intermittent fasting is one of the most talked-about — and misunderstood — wellness tools for women.Some call it a miracle. Others say it’s dangerous, restrictive, or terrible for hormones.So what’s the truth?In this episode of the Inspired Wellness Podcast, Michelle White (Certified Nutritional Therapy Practitioner) shares a balanced, science-based, and deeply personal look at intermittent fasting — what it is, what it isn’t, and why it has been one of the most sustainable tools in her own health journey for over four years.This is not about starvation, calorie restriction, or extremes. It’s about working with your body, especially during perimenopause and menopause.In this episode, you’ll learn:What intermittent fasting actually is — and why everyone already fasts dailyThe critical difference between time-restricted eating vs. chronic calorie restrictionWhy IF can support blood sugar balance, insulin sensitivity, and fat metabolismHow fasting helps regulate hunger hormones (leptin & ghrelin) and quiet food noiseThe role of fasting in autophagy — your body’s natural cellular clean-up processWhy IF may improve energy, mood, mental clarity, and metabolic flexibilityHow fasting can support hormone balance instead of harming it (when done correctly)How menstrual cycle phases can affect fasting for women who are still cyclingHow to start gently and sustainably:Begin with a 12-hour fastGradually work toward a 14–16 hour window only if it feels goodFocus on protein, fiber, and nutrient density during your eating windowCommon mistakes women make with IF — and how to avoid burnoutWhy fasting should feel freeing, not stressful or restrictiveMichelle also shares why she was initially hesitant to record this episode, how IF healed her relationship with food, and why flexibility — not perfection — is the key to long-term success.Whether you’re fasting-curious, skeptical, or looking for a healthier way to support hormones and metabolism after 40, this episode offers clarity, reassurance, and practical guidance you can actually use.📩 Questions or topic requests? Email Michelle to be part of the conversation!📧 [email protected]✨ Schedule a free discovery call with Michelle:👉 theinspiredwellnesscoach.com📲 Follow Michelle on Instagram & Facebook:@TheInspiredWellnessCoach🛒 Check out my online supplement dispensary for 10% off quality supplement brands:[email protected]⚠️ Disclaimer:The content in this podcast is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice.