In perimenopause, estrogen decline triggers insulin resistance. Dropping progesterone raises cortisol. Rising cortisol drives belly fat and cravings. Poor sleep affects hunger hormones. All of this happens at the same time, which is why women in their 40s can be eating well, exercising regularly and still gaining weight. Food is the most direct lever you have for all of it. Not less food. A perimenopause diet plan structured around how your hormones actually work right now. H