Hormones act as chemical messengers that influence hunger, fat storage, insulin sensitivity, and energy levels. During menopause, declining estrogen can reduce metabolic rate and increase insulin resistance, making weight gain easier and weight loss harder. Cortisol, the stress hormone, can also rise during midlife due to sleep changes and life pressures, further contributing to abdominal fat. Hormone support becomes essential in this phase because balanced hormones help the body respond better to healthy eating and movement. Align Health and Menopause focuses on restoring balance rather than forcing weight loss through deprivation.