Why 'Eating Less and Doing More' Stops Working.... and What to Do Instead

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m eating healthy, exercising, and trying to be consistent… so why doesn’t this work anymore?”, you’re not alone.

For many women, especially those in their 40s, 50s, and beyond (like me!), traditional weight loss advice stops delivering results. 

Eating less. Doing more cardio. Cutting carbs. Skipping meals. Starting over every Monday.

Instead of feeling leaner or more energized, you feel tired, frustrated, and stuck.

Here’s the truth: your body isn’t broken. The approach needs to change.

Why Weight Loss Gets Harder in our 40s, 50s, and beyond

As we move through perimenopause and menopause, our bodies naturally change. Hormonal shifts, muscle loss, changes in insulin sensitivity, and increased stress all affect metabolism.

The old “eat less and burn more calories” strategy can lead to:

• Slower metabolism
• Muscle loss
• Increased cravings
• Low energy
• Weight that’s harder to lose—and easier to gain

This is why many women search for things like “why weight loss stops working after 40” or “best diet for women over 40.” The answer isn’t more restriction—it’s better nourishment and smarter strength training.

Why Eating Enough Matters More Than Ever

One of the most common mistakes we women make in midlife is undereating, especially protein and total calories.

When your body doesn’t get enough fuel, it adapts by conserving energy and increasing hunger signals. Over time, this can negatively impact hormones, metabolism, and body composition.

A Mediterranean-style way of eating focuses on:

• Fiber-rich foods for blood sugar balance
• Healthy fats to support hormones and satiety
• Real, minimally processed foods
• Adequate protein for muscle maintenance

This approach supports long-term health, not just short-term weight loss.

👉 If you’re new to this style of eating, our Free Mediterranean Diet Guide is a great place to start.

The Mediterranean Diet: A Sustainable Approach for Women Over 40

The Mediterranean Diet is consistently ranked as one of the healthiest diets in the world. Research shows it supports heart health, metabolic health, brain health, and longevity.

• Unlike restrictive diets, the Mediterranean Diet:
• Does not eliminate entire food groups
• Encourages balanced meals
• Supports blood sugar stability
• Is flexible and sustainable

It’s especially well-suited for women in midlife who want results without extremes.

If you are wondering what people eat while following this delicious style of eating, check out this post on the topic. 

Why Strength Training Is the Missing Piece

I think we have all heard this by now. Nutrition alone isn’t enough: strength training is essential, especially as we age.

Muscle is often called the organ of longevity because it:

• Supports metabolism
• Improves insulin sensitivity
• Protects bone health
• Helps with functional movement and confidence

Strength training paired with proper nourishment helps your body feel strong, capable, and resilient, rather than depleted.

But what if you know that you should lift some weights but have no idea how?

Introducing the Strong & Nourished Program

Strong & Nourished was created for women who are done with diet culture and ready for a smarter approach to health.

This 4-week program helps you:

• Eat enough without obsessing over calories
• Prioritize protein, fiber, and nutrient density
• Support metabolism and hormones
• Build strength in a realistic, sustainable way

This is not a detox.

It’s not a crash diet.

It’s a plan to build a strong, nourished foundation you can actually maintain.

Who Strong & Nourished Is For

This program is a great fit if you:

• Feel like weight loss has become harder after 40
• Want a nutrition plan that works with your body, not against it
• Are tired of restrictive diets and constant restarts
• Want structure, support, and flexibility

You don’t need perfection—you need a plan that makes sense for this stage of life.

👉 You can learn more about the program here:

Strong & Nourished Program Page

We've teamed up with Emily from Saint J. Fitness to bring you this incredible program. Emily is a resistance training and nutrition expert who helps women 40+ stop fighting their bodies and start fueling them. With years of hands-on macro coaching experience, she has helped hundreds of women build strength, lose fat, and feel confident again, without restriction.

Important Dates

Enrollment closes: January 4

Program begins: January 5

If you’re ready to start the year feeling stronger, more energized, and more confident in how you eat, this is your opportunity.

Final Thoughts

Health in midlife isn’t about eating less and doing more. 

It’s about:

• Eating enough of the right foods
• Building strength, not burnout
• Choosing sustainability over extremes

Strong is the goal. Nourishment is the foundation.