Rethinking weight loss after 40

In a move that redefines conventional weight loss strategies for women over 40, Gold Coast-based naturopath and yoga teacher Carly Gallagher has unveiled her innovative “rest-based” approach to metabolic health. She says that conventional wisdom about weight loss often falls short for women over 40, because it doesn’t account for the hormonal changes affecting metabolism.

She has launched her own comprehensive 12-week programme, designed specifically for women over 40 who are seeking a logical, yet unconventional shift in their weight loss strategies. “Our programme focuses on working with the body’s natural rhythms, not against them,” Carly explains. “We incorporate smart, specific exercises that prioritise recovery while also providing a nutrition plan that ‘rests’ the metabolism from inflammatory foods
and excessive carbohydrates.”

Her paradigm-shifting methodology comes in response to recent trends indicating that many women in this age group find themselves trapped in the relentless cycle of the ‘eat less, exercise more’ mindset, believing it to be the only path to shedding unwanted kilograms.

Carly says that this approach can inadvertently shut down their metabolism, particularly after the age of 40. “The magic happens when I show them how to eat the right way — nourishing their bodies with the right foods and achieving the right macronutrient balance, while exercising just enough to stimulate their metabolism without overworking it,” she says. “It’s about finding that sweet spot where the body feels safe enough to release excess weight.

“That’s when we see real, lasting results. It’s not about deprivation; it’s about working smarter, not harder.” Her approach challenges other paradigms by focusing on strategic rest — both in exercise and nutrition. It emphasises an holistic “rest-based” approach, featuring:

• smart, specific exercises that prioritise rest and recovery
• avoiding the stress of over-exercising
• a nutrition plan focused on “resting” the digestion and metabolism
• hormone-balancing strategies that work with the body’s natural rhythms, rather than against them.

“Importantly, we’ve designed this approach to fit into real life, allowing women the freedom to socialise and enjoy life without overly restrictive rules,” she adds.