If you’ve been working out, eating clean, and still can’t shake that stubborn belly fat — this episode is your turning point. Dr. Leona breaks down the real reason your belly fat won’t budge (hint: it’s not about calories or crunches) and reveals 5 hormone-based strategies that actually work—especially for women over 40.   🎧 LISTEN NOW to discover: ✅ Why the type of belly fat matters for your health✅ The secret fat-burning power of brown fat✅ 5 overlooked hormones that control where your body stores fat✅ How late-night eating literally trains your body to gain✅ Why “tired but wired” keeps your metabolism stuck in storage mode This isn’t about willpower—it’s about working with your body, not against it.   In this episode: 00:00 – Clean eating, working out... but belly fat still won’t budge?03:00 – The 2 types of belly fat (and why visceral fat is the real threat)04:54 – White fat vs. brown fat (how to activate your fat-burning fat)06:23 – The 5 hormones that influence belly fat14:43 – Strategy #1: Balance Insulin (The foundation of metabolic health)27:43 – Strategy #2: Master Your Cortisol Cycle (The stress-belly connection)41:57 – Strategy #3: Detox Estrogen (Environmental toxins & belly fat)51:18 – Strategy #4: Reset Leptin (Strategic movement that works)1:00:09 – Strategy #5: Optimize Melatonin (Sleep as a metabolic reset)1:09:25 – Final thoughts: Bringing it all together + your next steps   Resources & Next Steps: ▶️ Watch this before trying another diet, exercise routine, or weight loss plan: https://beginhealingtoday.com/   Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | LinkedIn | X | Website   THE HEAL DEAL I'm making a deal with you to help you remove the physical, chemical, and emotional barriers that are holding you back from getting well. All I need from you is to feel, deal, and heal. Those are the terms, that is the heal deal! If you enjoyed today’s episode, seal the deal to heal by leaving a review and sharing with a friend. Thank you for listening! Until next time, go out there and achieve more freedom in your health and your life. Take care!   Dr. Leona Host, The Heal Deal Podcast Founder, Freedom Health Systems Author, A Journey to Healing | Freedom in Chains | Shop & Savor   Disclaimer This podcast is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, exercise, or health regimen, especially if you're taking medications or have underlying health conditions.