Why Can't I Lose Weight? 10 Honest Questions to Ask Yourself

"I'm doing everything right and nothing is changing." It's the most common thing women over 40 tell me. Usually they are doing a lot right. But there's often one or two hidden things holding everything back. These ten questions will help you find yours.

1. Am I eating enough protein?

Most women eat far less protein than they need, especially at breakfast. Protein protects muscle and keeps you full. If breakfast is toast or just coffee, start here.

2. Am I eating too little?

It sounds backwards, but very low intakes often stall weight loss after 40. Your body adapts and you lose muscle, which slows your metabolism.

3. What happens on weekends?

A strict Monday to Thursday followed by a relaxed weekend can cancel out the whole week. Look at your seven-day pattern, not just your best days.

4. Am I getting enough fibre?

Fibre keeps you full and steadies blood sugar. Most Australians don't eat enough. My free Fiber Counter app makes it easy to check.

5. Am I doing any strength training?

Walking is great, but it doesn't protect muscle the way lifting does. Two short strength sessions a week can make a real difference.

6. How am I sleeping?

Poor sleep raises hunger and cravings the next day. Night waking in perimenopause is common and often overlooked.

7. How much am I drinking?

A couple of glasses of wine most nights adds a surprising amount of energy and affects your sleep too.

8. Am I eating for reasons other than hunger?

Stress, tiredness and boredom drive a lot of eating. That's normal, and it's worth noticing.

9. Has my body changed with menopause?

Falling oestrogen moves fat storage to the middle. If your shape has changed, my post on menopause belly fat explains why.

10. Am I following a plan made for someone else?

Generic diets ignore your age, routine and preferences. If you recognise yourself here, read 7 signs generic diet plans aren't working for you.

Find your answer in a few minutes

If several of these questions hit home, you don't have to work it all out alone. My free Weight Loss Quiz asks the right questions and gives you a personalised report on what's most likely holding you back. Or, if you'd rather talk it through, book a free discovery call below.