Why “Eat Less, Move More” Isn’t the Answer to Sustainable Weight Loss

I’m calling rubbish on one of the most persistent — and misleading — weight loss myths out there:

“Just eat fewer calories and do more exercise.”

It’s the advice women have been given for decades. And while it might sound logical, for many people — especially women in their 40s, 50s and beyond — it simply doesn’t work.

And the truth is… it never really did.

⚠️ Here’s Why That Old Advice Falls Short

The idea that weight loss is simply about calories in vs. calories out is outdated. It assumes that:

All calories are equal

All bodies respond the same way

Your metabolism won’t adapt

But your body is much more complex than that. It’s constantly adjusting in order to maintain balance. So, when you drastically cut calories and increase exercise, your metabolism can slow down. You might feel more tired, more hungry, and still not lose weight — or even gain it.

🔥 What You Eat Matters More Than How Much - Not all calories are created equal.

Highly processed, refined, and sugary foods can cause blood sugar spikes and trigger excess insulin — your body’s fat-storage hormone. When insulin is elevated, your body struggles to burn fat effectively, no matter how few calories you’re consuming.

So it’s not just about less food — it’s about better food.

🧬 Weight Loss Is About More Than Willpower

Your weight is influenced by a number of biological and lifestyle factors, including:

🧠 Stress hormones like cortisol

💤 Sleep quality and circadian rhythm

🍽️ Emotional eating patterns

🦠 Gut health and liver detoxification

💪 The type and intensity of exercise you're doing

If any of these are out of balance, your body will naturally resist weight loss — no matter how hard you try.

✅ What Actually Works?

Sustainable weight loss means:

Balancing your blood sugar with real, nourishing foods

Reducing inflammation

Supporting your hormones

Managing stress effectively

Prioritising rest and recovery

Incorporating the right kind of movement for your stage of life

This isn’t about quick fixes or punishing diets. It’s about working with your body — not against it.

👩‍⚕️ How I Can Help

As a nutritional therapist, I help women uncover the root causes behind their weight struggles and support them with a personalised, realistic plan that works with their unique biochemistry and lifestyle.

We look at your nutrition, hormones, metabolism, mindset and more — and put together a sustainable, step-by-step approach that supports your energy, health, and long-term results.

📩 If you’re ready to break up with diet culture and take a more informed, compassionate approach to weight loss, I’d love to help

Get in touch.