Intermittent fasting — it’s one of those topics that lights up every group chat. Is it healthy? Is it safe? Does it even work for women in midlife? In this episode, Cheryl sits down with Integrative Health Practitioner Adrian Mamikonian to get real about what intermittent fasting is and what it isn’t.

Spoiler: it’s not about deprivation or starving yourself — it’s about understanding how to support your hormones, gut health, and metabolism during this season of life.

Adrian shares how fasting can help regulate blood sugar, reduce bloating, and improve energy — when done the right way. She explains why your body needs both feasting and fasting, how to find the right eating window for your lifestyle, and why nutrition (especially protein!) has to come first.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

• What intermittent fasting really means — and why it’s not a diet.
• How fasting supports gut health, insulin sensitivity, and hormone balance.
• Why sleep, stress, and nutrition must come before fasting.
• How to break your fast for optimal energy and digestion.
• The truth about protein needs for women in midlife.
• Why lifting heavier weights (and eating more food) might actually boost your metabolism.

OMG Moment

Adrian reminds us that change doesn’t have to be drastic. Whether it’s fasting, lifting, or improving your nutrition, lasting progress comes from small, consistent steps — not all-or-nothing overhauls.

Take Action

• Join us in Mind Your Midlife on Patreon or Substack for Adrian’s 5-day meal plan and our bonus conversation about what to actually eat in a fasting window.
• Connect with Adrian on Instagram: @livingwellwithadrian or on her website
• Continue on this theme with Mind Your Midlife episodes on sleep and on hormone balance!

If you’ve ever tried intermittent fasting and felt awful, or if you’ve wondered whether it’s even safe for women over 40, this conversation will help you understand the nuances — and give you permission to take it one step at a time.

Text me to ask a question - I'll answer on the podcast!

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Let’s talk midlife body positivity, self-talk, and redefining aging for women — without the “midlife crisis” narrative. Every week I'm adding new success strategies for midlife women.

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