When a patient comes to my office for support with weight loss, one of our first goals is to determine whether metabolic dysfunction is at play.
Why is this important? Because metabolic dysfunction is often closely tied to weight gain and resistant weight loss. It occurs when your body struggles to manage processes like blood sugar regulation, cholesterol levels, and greatly impacts appetite and metabolism.
Women are particularly at risk for metabolic dysfunction during the perimenopause-to-menopause transition due to declining estrogen levels, sleep challenges, muscle breakdown, and so on! Having a current or past diagnosis of PCOS and/or gestation diabetes also puts you at risk.
Besides unexplained weight gain or resistant weight gain, there are other early signs of metabolic dysfunction that can be subtle but are important to recognize:
- Feeling tired, especially after eating carb-heavy or sugary meals.
- Not feeling hungry in the morning upon waking.
- Frequent cravings for sugary or high-carb foods.
- Waking up frequently at night or difficulty staying asleep.
- A history of irregular or absent periods (outside of perimenopause/menopause).
The good news? Metabolic dysfunction can be reversed! Addressing metabolic dysfunction can not only help overcome weight plateaus, but can also improve your energy and overall health.
Curious to learn more? Check out my free training, Mastering Your Metabolism in Midlife, for more information and practical tips!
If you’re concerned about your metabolic health, schedule a consultation to create a personalized plan with comprehensive testing, dietary adjustments, and tailored strategies.
Disclaimer: The information provided on this blog is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making any changes to your health regimen. The content shared here is based on the author’s research and personal experiences, and individual results may vary. The author and blog are not responsible for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of any suggestions, preparations, or procedures discussed on this site.