112. Struggling to Lose Weight? How Hormones, Stress & Metabolism Impact Fat Loss (And How to Fix It!)

Ever feel crushing fatigue, stubborn belly weight, or energy crashes no matter how "clean" you eat? Let's sort out the confusion around weight-loss resistance, hormone balance, gut health, and a metabolism that suddenly won't cooperate—especially in perimenopause when brain fog, IBS-style bloating, and low energy can gang-up on you. Today I walk you through the hidden hormone signals that turn calories into cling-on fat (yes, even if you're fasting, counting macros, or exercising harder) —so you can finally drop the frustration along with the extra pounds. ​ What we cover in this episode The cortisol trap that stores fat around your organs—and the simple nightly shift that starts reversing it. A subtle estrogen-progesterone imbalance that can tank metabolism in perimenopause and why blood tests often miss it. Why "eat less, move more" backfires when thyroid conversion stalls (hint: it's not just about calories). A protein-fiber combo that smooths blood-sugar spikes and steadies energy without crash diets. You'll walk away knowing what hormone patterns sabotage weight-loss, why stress and sleep set the stage for belly fat, and which lab clues flag hidden insulin resistance—so you can tune into the full episode for the "how" and put each fix into action. Expect to reclaim energy, clear brain fog, and see the scale move in the right direction while supporting gut and digestive health along the way. Struggling with bloating, IBS, constipation, fatigue, brain fog, or hormone imbalance? Get expert guidance on gut health, hormone balance, detox, nervous system regulation, weight loss resistance, and upleveling your health. Join the Women's Wellness Collective, your go-to community for real solutions to boost energy, balance hormones, and improve digestion. Get 1/2 off your first month with code HEALTH at www.megmill.com/collective. WellPower is a free health magazine by Dr. Meg Mill, packed with expert insights, in-depth articles, and practical tips on hormone balance, gut health, and metabolic wellness for women in perimenopause and beyond. Get your free copy at https://go.megmill.com/wellpower and start optimizing your health today! Get clarity on your hormones with The Hormone Fixer—a free checklist to help you identify imbalances and take the first steps toward better health. Download now at https://go.megmill.com/hormonefixer. Let's connect on Instagram for daily health tips at @drmegmill . Learn more about how Dr. Meg can help you uplevel your health at www.megmill.com This content is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program. This podcast is for women in perimenopause and beyond who are struggling with fatigue, brain fog, bloating, weight loss resistance, and unpredictable hormones. If you're dealing with exhaustion, low energy, digestive discomfort, or hormone imbalances, you'll learn how to support your metabolism, balance hormones naturally, beat IBS and bloating, and finally break through stubborn weight gain. Discover science-backed strategies to optimize digestion, improve gut health, and manage perimenopause symptoms—without restrictive diets or endless supplements. Whether it's addressing estrogen dominance, blood sugar balance, or adrenal fatigue, this podcast gives you the tools to take control of your health and feel vibrant again. If you are enjoying the show, please subscribe and leave a review or share it with a friend. If you listen to any of the following shows, we're sure you'll like ours too! Pursuit of Wellness with Mari Llewellyn, Everyday Wellness with Cynthia Thurlow, Just Ingredients Podcast, Longevity with Nathalie Niddam, Wellness Mama, The Dr. Josh Axe Show, Ancient Health Podcast, The Model Health Show, Grounded Wellness By Primally Pure, Be Well By Kelly Leveque, The Hormone Solution with Karen Martel, The Dr. Hyman Show, The Thyroid Fixer with Dr. Amie Hornaman, Treated with Dr. Sara, Well Beyond 40 with JJ Virgin, Better! with Dr. Stephanie, Energized with Dr. Mariza