Weight gain during perimenopause can feel like a puzzle with missing pieces. Many women notice extra pounds, especially around the midsection, despite no major changes to their diet or exercise routine. The culprit often lies in hormonal shifts, such as declining estrogen levels, which affect how your body stores fat and utilizes energy. Add in slower metabolism, stress, and poor sleep, and it’s easy to see why the scale starts creeping upward. But here’s the good news: with the right approach, you can take back control.

One of my patients, Lisa, shared her frustration: “I’m eating the same as I always have, but I’m still gaining weight!” We started with functional testing to assess her hormones, including cortisol and insulin, which revealed imbalances contributing to her weight gain. By designing a personalized nutrition plan that balanced her blood sugar, incorporating strength training to build lean muscle, and addressing her stress with mindfulness techniques, Lisa saw her weight...