Imagine your body as a wise, protective friend. It’s always looking out for you, even when you don’t realize it. When you give it too much sugar, too much stress, or too many toxins. It stores the excess in places like your belly, not to punish you, but to keep you safe. This is one of the many eye-opening insights shared by Dr. Mindy Pelz, a women’s health expert, bestselling author, and passionate advocate for helping women reconnect with their bodies.
In a recent podcast episode, Dr. Pelz shared her wealth of knowledge on weight gain, fasting, hormonal health, and the importance of understanding your body’s unique needs. Her message is simple yet profound: health isn’t about strict rules or quick fixes. It’s about listening to your body, understanding its rhythms, and making choices that support its natural wisdom.
The Body’s Wisdom: Why We Gain Weight
Dr. Pelz explains that weight gain is often a sign that your body is trying to protect you. When there’s excess glucose, hormones, or toxins, your body stores them in safe places, like your belly, to keep them away from vital organs. Instead of feeling frustrated or ashamed, Dr. Pelz encourages us to thank our bodies for their protective mechanisms. “Your body is trying to save your life,” she says. The key to losing weight isn’t about punishing yourself with diets—it’s about understanding the root causes, like stress, toxins, and insulin resistance, and addressing them holistically.
The Fasting Mistake You Might Be Making
Fasting has become a popular tool for weight loss and health, but Dr. Pelz warns against a common mistake: doing the same fast every single day. “Your body is smart,” she says. “If you do the same fast over and over, it will adapt and slow down your metabolism.” Instead, she recommends varying your fasting routine. For example, a busy mom might fast during the week but enjoy brunch with her family on weekends. This approach, called “feast-famine cycling,” mimics the natural eating patterns of our ancestors and keeps your body guessing.
Belly Fat and the Stress Connection
If you’ve ever wondered why belly fat seems so stubborn, Dr. Pelz points to cortisol, the stress hormone. In our fast-paced, high-stress world, cortisol levels are often through the roof. But managing stress doesn’t have to be complicated. Dr. Pelz suggests simple strategies like walking, spending time in nature, and surrounding yourself with positive people. “Cortisol was meant to make you move,” she explains. “When stress hits, get up and go for a walk. It’s one of the best things you can do.”
She also highlights the role of toxins in weight gain. From skincare products to processed foods, we’re exposed to hundreds of chemicals every day. These toxins can disrupt your hormones and contribute to belly fat. Dr. Pelz encourages us to reduce our toxic load by choosing clean, natural products and eating whole, unprocessed foods.
Protein: The Unsung Hero of Hormonal Health
When it comes to nutrition, Dr. Pelz calls protein the “hero macronutrient.” It’s essential for building hormones and neurotransmitters, and it plays a key role in stabilizing blood sugar. But you don’t need to obsess over exact grams or measurements. Instead, focus on incorporating clean, high-quality protein sources like grass-fed meat, eggs, or plant-based options into every meal. Pair protein with healthy fats and fiber, and you’ll feel fuller, more energized, and less likely to crave unhealthy snacks.
Eating for Your Hormones
Dr. Pelz’s new book, *Eat Like a Girl*, dives into the importance of eating to support hormonal health. She explains that women need 24 key nutrients daily to produce hormones effectively. For example, amino acids from protein and omega-3 fatty acids from olive oil are essential for hormone production. She also emphasizes the need to tailor your diet to your menstrual cycle. In the first half of your cycle, lower-carb meals can support estrogen, while higher-carb meals in the second half can help balance progesterone.
The Power of Fasting
Fasting is one of Dr. Pelz’s favorite tools for weight loss, detoxification, and hormonal balance. But she recommends starting small. “Push your breakfast back by an hour,” she suggests. “It might feel uncomfortable at first, but within a few days, your body will adapt.” Over time, you can gradually increase your fasting window. Fasting also helps reset your microbiome, reducing cravings for unhealthy foods. However, Dr. Pelz advises against fasting during pregnancy, nursing, or if you have certain medical conditions.
A Message of Empowerment
Dr. Pelz’s ultimate goal is to help women fall in love with their bodies again. “Your body is a gift,” she says. “It’s not something to punish or control—it’s something to nurture and celebrate.” By reconnecting with your body’s natural rhythms, reducing stress, and making informed food choices, you can achieve lasting health and well-being.
Final Thoughts
Dr. Mindy Pelz’s insights are a reminder that health isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. It’s about understanding your body, honoring its needs, and making choices that support your overall well-being. Whether you’re struggling with weight loss, hormonal imbalances, or stress, her advice offers a roadmap to a healthier, happier you.
