Ep. 563 “Why Eating Less Can Backfire” — The Midlife Under-Fueling Problem | Menopause, Perimenopause & Nutrition

Ep. 563 “Why Eating Less Can Backfire” — The Midlife Under-Fueling Problem | Menopause, Perimenopause & Nutrition

Author: Everyday Wellness™ March 5, 2026 Duration: 16:29
Welcome to today’s Midlife Minute episode. I've received a wave of questions about the best ways to fuel workouts and how to recognize signs that you're not eating enough to support your exercise routine. This topic is particularly relevant because many women in my community have practiced fasting, intermittent fasting, or other forms of time-restricted eating for years, which can sometimes lead to chronic under-fueling. Stay tuned to learn how to spot the signs of under-fueling and ensure your body gets the energy it truly needs. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU WILL LEARN: How practicing intermittent fasting or time-restricted feeding for years can lead to energy deficits and poor workout recovery What happens to you when you’re middle-aged and your protein intake is too low? Why women have a higher risk of chronic under-fueling consequences as their progesterone, estradiol, and testosterone decrease with age  How chronically elevated cortisol negatively impacts women’s muscles, metabolism, and insulin sensitivity The importance of maintaining your muscles as you age Signs that indicate you may be under-fueling Strategies to support your health and performance in middle age Connect with Cynthia Thurlow   Follow on X, Instagram & LinkedIn Check out Cynthia’s website Submit your questions to support@cynthiathurlow.com Join other like-minded women in a supportive, nurturing community: The Midlife Pause/Cynthia Thurlow  Cynthia’s Menopause Gut Book is on presale now! Cynthia’s Intermittent Fasting Transformation Book The Midlife Pause Supplement Line Discount Offer Kion Aminos - Use promo code CYNTHIA to get 20% off! (Cynthia’s favorites are the capsules) Research Links  Impact of Protein Intake during Weight Loss on Preservation of Fat-Free Mass, Resting Energy Expenditure, and Physical Function in Overweight Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial Resistance Training Preserves Fat-free Mass Without Impacting Changes in Protein Metabolism After Weight Loss in Older Women

Navigating the changes that come with midlife can feel isolating, but it doesn't have to be a solo journey. Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+ is a conversation grounded in evidence and empathy. Host Cynthia Thurlow brings her perspective as a nurse practitioner and a woman in this life stage, translating complex science into practical strategies. With over 25 years in health and wellness, including a widely-viewed TEDx talk on intermittent fasting, she connects the dots between hormones, metabolism, and long-term vitality. This podcast delves into the nuanced realities of perimenopause and beyond, moving past generic advice to explore personalized nutrition, sustainable fitness for changing bodies, and managing sleep and stress. It’s a resource for anyone seeking to understand the *why* behind their symptoms and find actionable steps that fit into a real, busy life. The discussions are direct, informed by the latest research, and focused on empowering women to advocate for their own health. Tune in for honest dialogues that replace confusion with clarity and foster a sense of community around shared experiences.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Everyday Wellness: Midlife Hormones, Menopause, and Science for Women 35+
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