Episode 29: Why Am I Gaining Weight When I'm Barely Eating?

Why You Can Gain Weight in Menopause Even When You’re Barely EatingHost Lynda Enright explains why many women in perimenopause and menopause can gain weight despite eating less, emphasizing that it’s not a willpower issue and the body isn’t broken. She covers metabolic adaptation from long-term calorie restriction, the common “barely eating” pattern and its effects on blood sugar, cortisol, and fat storage, and how muscle loss after 40—often worsened by dieting—slows metabolism. She shares a client story (“Sarah”) whose weight gain, cravings, fatigue, and poor sleep improved after increasing protein, stabilizing meals, adding strength training, improving sleep routines, and reducing food fear rather than restricting more. The episode highlights stress and poor sleep as key metabolic drivers, encourages prioritizing strength training and adequate protein in midlife, and invites listeners to schedule a free call to discuss metabolism, stress, and next steps.00:00 Barely Eating Yet Gaining00:33 Why Its Not Willpower01:05 Welcome to Joyful Menopause01:27 Years of Dieting Trap02:11 Metabolic Adaptation Explained03:10 The Underfueling Pattern04:12 Muscle Loss Slows Metabolism04:54 Sarahs Breakthrough Story07:36 Stress Sleep and Cortisol08:28 Key Takeaways and Next Steps09:27 Free Call Invitation10:04 Final EncouragementWhen you're ready, here are 3 ways I can help you to feel your best during perimenopause and menopause:1. Want more science-backed health tips? Click here to sign up for my free weekly newsletter for practical advice on navigating menopause with confidence:  2. Click here to get the free guide: 5 Natural Ways To Reduce Menopause Symptoms.2. For more information about Lynda and how she supports women on their health journey, click here to learn more.3. Interested in seeing if nutrition coaching with Lynda is right for you? Click here to book a free discovery call with Lynda.