All Things Macros, Habits, And Sustainability w/ Paula Ciarniello | Ep. 35

How to Reset Your Metabolism and Burn Fat Efficiently

Are you struggling with stubborn weight gain despite eating less and working out harder? You’re not alone. Many women unknowingly slow their metabolism through extreme dieting and overtraining.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly how to reset your metabolism and turn your body into a fat-burning machine.

Understanding Your Metabolic Rate

Your metabolism is the process by which your body converts food into energy. It consists of:

• Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR): The calories your body burns at rest (about 60% of total energy use).
• Active Energy Expenditure (AEE): Calories burned through exercise and movement (around 25% for moderate activity levels).
• Thermic Effect of Food (TEF): The energy required to digest food (about 15% of total calories from food — more if you eat enough protein).

If you’re in a calorie deficit for too long, your metabolism slows down to conserve energy. The result? Weight loss plateaus and increased fat storage.

What Causes a Slow Metabolism?

If your metabolism feels sluggish, one (or more) of these common culprits may be to blame:

❌ Eating too little for too long – Chronic dieting puts your body into starvation mode, slowing metabolism and increasing fat storage. 

❌ Overtraining without recovery – Too much exercise without proper rest raises cortisol, decreases muscle growth, and slows metabolism. 

❌ Lack of muscle mass – Muscle burns more calories than fat, even at rest. 

❌ Hormonal imbalances – Cortisol, thyroid hormones, and leptin directly affect metabolic rate. 

❌ Poor sleep & high-stress levels – Sleep deprivation increases cravings and stress hormones, leading to a metabolic slowdown.

The good news? You can reset your metabolism naturally by making the right changes to your diet, exercise, and lifestyle.

How to Reset Your Metabolism Naturally

1. Eat More to Burn More (Stop Starvation Mode!)

Have you ever hit a weight loss plateau, despite cutting calories? That’s your metabolism slowing down to conserve energy.

The Fix: Reverse dieting – slowly increasing your calorie intake – helps restore metabolic function. 

Focus on nutrient-dense foods: Lean proteins, healthy fats, and fiber-rich carbs keep your metabolism burning efficiently.

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2. Prioritize Protein for a Metabolic Boost

Protein has the highest thermic effect, meaning your body burns more calories digesting it than fats or carbs.

✅ Aim for at least 1g of protein per pound of lean body mass. 

✅ Best protein sources: Chicken, turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, lentils, beans, tofu.

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3. Strength Training: Your Metabolism’s Best Friend

More muscle = higher metabolism, even at rest. If your routine is mostly cardio, you could be losing muscle and slowing your metabolic rate.

✅ Lift weights 2-3 times per muscle group a week to build lean muscle. 

✅ If you prefer home workouts, use resistance bands or bodyweight exercises. 

✅ Combine strength training & cardio for best results.

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4. Reduce Stress & Optimize Sleep

Stress increases cortisol, which leads to fat storage and cravings. Poor sleep disrupts hormones that regulate hunger and metabolism.

✅ Get at least 7-8 hours of quality sleep per night. 

✅ Create a nighttime routine – limit screen time, dim the lights, and set a consistent bedtime. 

✅ Practice stress management – deep breathing, meditation, or journaling can lower cortisol levels.

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5. Balance Your Hormones Naturally

Hormonal imbalances can stall fat loss and slow your metabolism. Supporting your endocrine system is crucial for long-term results.

✅ Eat hormone-balancing foods: Healthy fats (avocados, salmon, nuts), fiber-rich foods, and leafy greens.

 ✅ Reduce processed foods that spike blood sugar and build insulin resistance.

✅ Stay hydrated – dehydration can negatively impact metabolism and hormone balance.

How Long Does It Take to Reset Your Metabolism?

Results vary based on individual history, but most women notice increased energy and fat loss within 4-8 weeks. Remember, consistency is key!

You may not see immediate weight loss, but your body is adapting for long-term fat burning.

Stop Guessing – Let WarriorBabe Help You Reset Your Metabolism!

Tired of restrictive diets that ruin your metabolism? At WarriorBabe, we specialize in helping women reset their metabolism and achieve sustainable fat loss.

Custom-calculated macros & meal plans 

Expert coaching on metabolic repair 

Strength-based training programs 

Real, long-term results – NO crash diets!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Does resetting your metabolism help with weight loss?
Yes! When your metabolism functions properly, your body burns more calories efficiently, making weight loss easier and more sustainable.

How many calories should I eat for a healthy metabolism?
This depends on factors like age, activity level, and muscle mass. WarriorBabe provides customized macro coaching to find the perfect balance for YOU.

What’s the fastest way to reset my metabolism?
🔹 Reverse diet to increase calories gradually
🔹 Strength training to build muscle
🔹 Prioritize protein and whole foods
🔹 Reduce stress and improve sleep

🔥 Ready to transform your metabolism and burn fat effortlessly? Click here to get started with WarriorBabe!

Tracking Macronutrients for Weight Loss: A Guide to Effective Eating

Have you ever heard fitness enthusiasts talk about “macros?” They’re referring to macronutrients—essential nutrients your body needs for energy and optimal function.

You likely know that eating in a calorie deficit is key to weight loss, but tracking your macronutrients can accelerate your progress and ensure you’re burning fat while maintaining muscle. By planning your meals with intention, you’ll set yourself up for long-term success.
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Here’s everything you need to know about macronutrients for weight loss and how to make them work for you.

Understanding Macronutrients for Weight Loss

If you’ve been cutting calories but aren’t seeing the results you expected, your macronutrient balance might be off.

Macronutrients are the three primary components of food: carbohydrates, protein, and fats. Each plays a critical role in fueling your body, but for weight loss, your intake should be strategically balanced.

Dietitians generally recommend these macro percentages for fat loss:

• 50% Carbs
• 35% Protein
• 15% Fats

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2020-2025) suggest a broader range:

• Carbs: 45-65%
• Protein: 10-35%
• Fats: 20-35%

But the answer for you will depend on your unique goals. While tracking overall calories is important, ensuring your calories come from the right macronutrient balance can make or break your weight loss journey — start with protein and fill the rest of your categories with carbs and fats.

This is an oversimplification, but in general, lean toward more carbs before menopause and slightly higher fats during and after menopause..

The Three Macronutrients: What You Need to Know

Protein – The Muscle Builder

Protein is essential for muscle repair, recovery, and satiety. Unlike carbs and fats, protein has a high thermic effect, meaning your body burns more calories digesting it.

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend at least:

• 46g/day for women
• 56g/day for men

Protein-rich foods: Chicken, turkey, eggs, Greek yogurt, lentils, beans, tofu, and lean meats.

Carbohydrates – The Energy Source

Carbs fuel your workouts and brain function. However, quality matters—focus on complex carbs like whole grains and fiber-rich veggies, and limit refined carbs that spike blood sugar.

Healthy carbs: Quinoa, brown rice, oats, lentils, vegetables, and fruit.

Fats – The Hormone Balancer

Despite their bad reputation, healthy fats are crucial for vitamin absorption and hormone regulation. Focus on monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, while minimizing trans fats and excessive saturated fats.

Healthy fats: Avocados, olive oil, nuts, fatty fish, and seeds.

How to Track Macronutrients for Weight Loss

1. Use a Tracking App – MyFitnessPal and Cronometer can simplify macro counting.
2. Invest in a Food Scale – Measuring portions ensures accuracy.
3. Estimate When Necessary – Don’t stress over perfection—consistency matters most.

Sample Macro Calculation Formula:

• Protein: (Daily Calories x 0.35) ÷ 4 = Grams of Protein
• Carbs: (Daily Calories x 0.50) ÷ 4 = Grams of Carbs
• Fats: (Daily Calories x 0.15) ÷ 9 = Grams of Fat

Example: If your target is 1,500 calories/day, your macro goals mightwould be:

• 131g protein
• 188g carbs
• 25g fat

Building Your Meals Around Macronutrients

For the best results, structure your meals with single-source macros to simplify tracking.

Protein-Packed Foods:

• Lean meats: Chicken, turkey, lean beef
• Plant-based: Lentils, beans, tofu, tempeh
• Dairy: Greek yogurt, eggs, cottage cheese

Complex Carbohydrates:

• Whole grains: Brown rice, quinoa, whole wheat bread
• Vegetables: Sweet potatoes, broccoli, spinach
• Legumes: Lentils, chickpeas, black beans

Healthy Fats:

• Nuts & Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds
• Oils: Extra virgin olive oil, avocado oil
• Fatty Fish: Salmon, sardines

Common Macro Tracking Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Ignoring Food Quality – Nutrient-dense foods keep you fuller longer. 

❌ Being Too Strict – Sustainable weight loss requires balance, not obsession. 

❌ Skipping Personalization – Adjust macros based on your lifestyle and goals. 

❌ Forgetting Satiety – High-protein meals keep hunger in check.

‍Tips for Sustainable Macro Tracking

✅ Read Food Labels – Pay attention to serving sizes and ingredient quality. 

✅ Meal Prep in Advance – Helps you stay on track with balanced meals. 

✅ Stay Flexible – Progress, not perfection, is key.

Join WarriorBabe & Take Control of Your Health

Tracking macronutrients for weight loss empowers you to make informed, sustainable choices for your health and fitness journey.

At WarriorBabe, we help women over 40 regain confidence, build muscle, and create lasting transformations. If you're ready to take your fitness to the next level, apply now to join our proven program!

Frequently Asked Questions

What macros should I eat to lose weight? A balanced intake of carbohydrates, protein, and fats tailored to your age, body composition, and activity level.

How much protein should I eat to lose weight? Aim for 1 gram of protein per pound of body weight to support muscle retention and fat loss.

What should a 40-year-old woman eat to lose weight? A calorie deficit combined with balanced macronutrients—focusing on lean protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats.

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🔥 Ready to transform your body with WarriorBabe? Click here to get started!

How Women Can Maximize Post-Workout Recovery at 40+

By the time we reach our 40s, our bodies have a slightly different rhythm than they did a decade or two ago. Intense workouts can still yield incredible results, but the way we recover becomes increasingly important. Proper post-workout recovery isn’t just about avoiding soreness; it’s about making sure your body can rebuild stronger, healthier muscles without unnecessary setbacks. Here’s how to get the most out of your rest and come back even better for your next session!

1. Give Your Muscles Room to Repair

When you engage in strength training or high-effort cardio, you create tiny tears in your muscle fibers. These micro-tears need time to heal so your muscles can grow stronger. Rather than pushing yourself hard every single day, alternate tough workouts with gentler activities or days off. This could mean doing a challenging weightlifting session on Monday, then a brisk walk or light yoga on Tuesday. A simple rhythm like that can help keep fatigue (and potential injuries) at bay. Listen to your body and adapt to what works for you over time.

2. Address Hormone Balance and Stress Levels

Once you’re over 40, hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol can have a bigger impact on how quickly you bounce back from exercise (for better or worse). Elevated cortisol — often caused by chronic stress — can interfere with muscle repair and nudge your body toward holding onto stubborn fat. Supporting hormonal balance can be as straightforward as getting enough sleep, learning to manage day-to-day stress, and fueling yourself with nutrient-rich foods. If you’re short on sleep, even the best workout routine can feel draining. Prioritize quality rest, and don’t underestimate small stress-busting habits like journaling, light meditation, or a calming cup of herbal tea before bed.

3. Use Active Recovery Techniques

Recovery doesn’t mean plopping on the couch for days on end — although a true rest day now and then might be exactly what you need. Active recovery involves low-intensity movement that promotes blood flow without taxing your muscles too hard. Think gentle stretching, leisurely walks, or a short bike ride at a relaxed pace. These types of activities help flush out metabolic waste from your muscles and deliver nutrients that aid in the rebuilding process. If you like a bit more structure, consider a restorative yoga class that focuses on breathing and joint mobility. It might surprise you how refreshed you feel afterward — and how much better your next intense workout goes.

4. Fuel and Hydrate for Faster Rebound

Protein is essential for muscle repair, and that’s especially true as our bodies get older. Make sure you’re fitting enough protein into your daily meals — whether it’s lean meats, dairy, eggs, beans, or any other plant-based protein sources. Carbohydrates also play a vital role in replenishing the glycogen stores your body uses to fuel workouts, so don’t write them off! Choose whole grains, fruits, and vegetables to keep your energy steady without sending blood sugar levels on a roller coaster. Water is another overlooked key player in post-workout recovery; staying hydrated helps transport nutrients to your muscles, regulate body temperature, and maintain overall health. If plain water bores you, a splash of fruit juice or a few slices of cucumber can make it more enticing.

Ready for guidance tailored to your unique body? Our program is crafted to help women over 40 strike the perfect balance between challenging workouts and smart recovery. Apply to become a WarriorBabe here!

How to Tone Your Glutes After 40

If you’ve been feeling like your backside could use a little extra attention — or you just want a strong foundation for everything else you do — this article is for you. Let’s dive into three straightforward strategies to help you build and shape your glutes for the long-term!

1. The Role of Strong Glutes

Your glutes aren’t just there for appearances; they play a major role in maintaining good posture and stabilizing your hips and lower back. A strong backside helps reduce strain on other parts of your body, especially when you’re lifting or simply tackling everyday tasks. After 40, shifting hormone levels can affect how effectively you build muscle, so patience and consistency are key. Also, remember your glutes are part of a larger system that includes your core — strengthening one area often benefits the other, so tighten your core during glute-focused exercises for added stability and better form!

2. Focus on Moves That Really Count

Do squats, hip thrusts, and exercises with heavy weights — avoid long, repetitive exercises like kickbacks if muscle tone is your goal. Forward, reverse, and lateral lunges each target your glutes from different angles, so mixing them up can keep your workouts interesting. Allow plenty of time for rest, too; active recovery, like light stretching or walking, can ease tightness and improve circulation, helping you bounce back more quickly.

3. Support Your Efforts with Nutrition and Lifestyle

Protein is critical if you want to see noticeable changes, so lean on foods like poultry, fish, or plant-based options for daily muscle repair. Staying hydrated is also key — water keeps your muscles functioning and helps transport nutrients where they’re needed. If plain water feels dull, try infusing it with fruit or herbs! And don’t overlook stress levels; constant stress can throw your hormones out of balance and slow muscle growth. Simple habits like reading, listening to music, or taking a few minutes of quiet time can help lower stress and support your glute-toning goals in the long run.

Ready to get 1-on-1 support in your workouts, nutrition, feedback, accountability, and more? Apply to become a WarriorBabe here!

How to Keep Your Workout Motivation High After 40

Life gets hectic — families, careers, and personal goals all tug at us in different directions. But carving out time to move your body doesn’t have to be another stressful item on your to-do list. Here are three strategies, friend to friend, to help you stay motivated and actually look forward to your workouts!

1. Commit to a Weekly Game Plan

Think of each workout as a non-negotiable date with yourself. On Sunday (or whenever you plan your week), block off dedicated workout slots on your calendar. You wouldn’t cancel on someone important, and you’re just as important. And instead of vaguely promising yourself “three workouts this week,” nail down exactly which days and what you’ll do. Monday: upper body. Wednesday: lower body. Friday: full-body. When your plan is clear, you won’t waste energy deciding on the spot.

2. Make Discipline Automatic

Lay out your clothes, fill your water bottle, and gather any gear you need the night before. This tiny step can make a world of difference in the morning, removing any excuse to skip out. You can also tie your workout to something you already do every day — right after coffee or before your favorite hobby. When the trigger happens (or you’re tempted to start a project you enjoy), over time you’ll find you naturally shift into workout mode.

3. Keep Yourself Accountable—Publicly or Privately

Whether it’s a workout buddy or an online group, sharing your progress makes a huge difference. It’s uplifting to celebrate each other’s wins, and it’s easier to stay consistent when others are cheering you on. Maybe you also use an app or stick a calendar on your fridge — just find a method that feels rewarding to you. Checking off completed workouts becomes a small victory you can see right in front of you. And don’t forget: It’s okay to treat yourself for sticking to your plan — just choose something that aligns with your goals!

Looking for extra support tailored to you? Our program helps women over 40 map out a realistic fitness routine, stay accountable, and see real results with proven steps that work. Apply to become a WarriorBabe here

The Truth About Sugar Cravings Over 40 (and How to Tame Them)

Sugar cravings can show up at any age, but they often seem to go into overdrive once we hit our 40s. If that nagging sweet tooth is getting worse, you’re not imagining it. Below are a few reasons why... along with a few gentle ways to keep them in check!

1. Why cravings intensify

As we get older, fluctuating hormones can throw off our body’s usual responses to stress and blood sugar. Cortisol, a key stress hormone, might stay elevated longer, while changes in estrogen and progesterone can make us feel off-balance. These shifts can lead your brain to seek a quick “pick-me-up” in the form of sugary foods. It’s less about willpower and more about how your body is wired. Getting curious — rather than self-critical — about these changes can be a good first step toward managing cravings.

2. Balancing meals

If you’ve ever reached for a candy bar between lunch and dinner, you might be noticing a pattern: The more erratic your meals, the stronger those cravings feel. Adding more protein, slow-burning carbohydrates, and some healthy fats can knock down sugar cravings (and if you enjoy them, fermented foods and vinegar can help!). Find what keeps you feeling satisfied for longer. Small experiments (like adding different proteins or choosing more fiber) can work wonders.

3. Hidden nutrient gaps

Another piece of the puzzle is micronutrients — like magnesium and certain B vitamins — that support a stable mood and steady energy. If your body isn’t getting what it needs, it might ramp up sugar cravings to get a quick burst of energy. A routine check-up or conversation with a healthcare provider can help you spot any gaps. Supplementing wisely can be beneficial, but it’s often just as useful to tweak your grocery list to include more nutrient-rich foods that you genuinely enjoy.

Ready to get 1-on-1 support for reducing your cravings and living with real food freedom, while achieving your biggest goals for your body composition? Apply to become a WarriorBabe here!