keywordsmidlife health, self-worth, weight scales, hormonal changes, wellbeing, nutrition, confidence, body positivity, health markers, sustainable living

summaryIn this episode of the Serenity Health and Wellbeing podcast, Sarah Cassels discusses the impact of weight scales on self-perception, particularly for women in midlife. She emphasizes the importance of focusing on holistic health markers rather than numbers, advocating for a shift in mindset towards nourishment and self-acceptance. Sarah shares insights on hormonal changes,

the concept of weight set point, and practical steps to foster a healthier relationship with food and body image. The episode concludes with a call to embrace strength and confidence in midlife, moving away from the pressures of weight loss.

takeaways

• The number on the scales tells you little about your health.
• In midlife, focusing on weight can be unhelpful.
• Hormonal changes affect weight and self-perception.
• Scales can create frustration and encourage unhealthy habits.
• It's important to focus on how you feel, not just weight.
• Dieting can raise your body's natural weight set point.
• Nourishment should take precedence over restriction.
• Managing stress positively impacts weight and health.
• A month without scales can change your relationship with food.
• Health in midlife is about strength, confidence, and peace.

Sound Bites

• "The scales are a very blunt, outdated tool."
• "Dieting itself can be counterproductive."
• "Put the scales away for January."

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Midlife Health and Wellbeing

00:54The Impact of Scales on Self-Perception

03:50Reframing Health Beyond the Scales

06:47Understanding Hormonal Changes and Weight Set Point

09:33Practical Steps for a Healthier Relationship with Food

10:30Conclusion: Embracing Strength and Confidence in Midlife

Dr. Andrew Jenkinson (2020) - Why We Eat (Too Much)

Dr.Andrew Jenkinson (2024) - How To Eat (and Still Lose Weight)