Why You’re Gaining Belly Fat Even Though Nothing Has Changed – Dr Avi Charlton

🎙️ EPISODE DESCRIPTION: Why can belly fat suddenly become harder to shift in midlife, even when you feel like you haven’t changed anything? In this episode, I’m speaking with Dr Avi Charlton, GP, speaker, best-selling author, podcast host and thought leader in lifestyle medicine, about insulin resistance, metabolic health and why our bodies may need a different approach as we move through perimenopause. We explore how insulin can influence fat storage, the signs of insulin resistance women may overlook, GLP-1 medications, intermittent fasting, protein, strength training and why there is no one-size-fits-all approach to nutrition. Dr Avi also explains how stress and cortisol can influence metabolic health, why our past health experiences matter, and how simple strategies such as breathwork, mindfulness and lifestyle changes can support long-term wellbeing. IN THIS EPISODE, YOU’LL LEARN: What insulin resistance is and how it can affect fat loss Why belly fat can increase during midlife Signs of insulin resistance beyond blood glucose How GLP-1 medications may fit into metabolic healthcare Why protein and strength training matter when using GLP-1s Different approaches to intermittent fasting Why fasting and nutrition should be individualised The role of blood tests in understanding metabolic health How stress and cortisol can influence weight and wellbeing Why what worked for your body before may not work now Simple breathwork strategies to help manage stress ABOUT DR AVI CHARLTON: Dr. Avi Charlton is a GP, speaker, best-selling author, podcast host, and thought leader in lifestyle medicine. She is the founder of Melbourne Low Carb Clinic and Breathe in Health, where she helps people reverse chronic conditions and improve wellbeing through nutrition, functional breathing, and lifestyle interventions. A passionate advocate for empowering individuals to take charge of their health, Dr. Charlton shares her expertise on stage, in the media, through her best-selling book Prescribing Lifestyle: A Doctor’s Prescription to Lasting Weight Loss and Vibrant Health, and as host of the Prescribing Lifestyle podcast. Her work has been recognised nationally, receiving an AusMumpreneur Honourable Mention for Wellness Business of the Year. With over two decades of experience as a doctor, Dr. Charlton continues to inspire and guide people toward vibrant health, sustainable change, and a future where lifestyle is the first prescription. CONNECT WITH DR AVI CHARLTON: Web: www.mlcclinic.com.au Web: www.breatheinhealth.com.au Instagram: @dr_charlton_lifestyleGP Facebook: Dr Charlton Lifestyle GP LinkedIn: Avi Charlton YouTube: Dr Charlton Lifestyle GP OFFERS AND RESOURCES: One-to-one GP consultations for metabolic health, health checks, blood tests and menopause hormone support Books: Low Carb Made Easy, Prescribing Lifestyle and Cookbook Prescribing Lifestyle Podcast, with approximately 127 episodes CONNECT WITH HOST TERRI BATSAKIS: Web: https://terribatsakis.com.au/ Instagram: @terri.batsakis Facebook: @terribatsakis YouTube: @terribatsakis