Townsville Nutritionist Explains: Why protein after 40 changes everything!

If you’re over 40 and feel like your body has switched into “weight gain mode” no matter what you eat and no matter how hard you exercise, you’re not imagining things. Many of my clients tell me the same story:

“I eat less than I used to, I’m walking more… but the weight keeps creeping on!”

Sound familiar? The truth is, after 40, your body changes in ways that make weight loss trickier. Hormones shift, muscle mass naturally declines, and your metabolism slows down. But here’s the part most people don’t realise—protein is one of the crucial missing links. 

As a Townsville nutritionist with over 10 years experience in the health industry, I can tell you: when women over 40 finally start prioritising protein, everything changes.

Why protein matters more after 40

Think of protein as the scaffolding of your body. It builds muscle, keeps bones strong, supports hormones, and balances blood sugar.

The kicker? After 40, you need more protein than you did in your 20s to get the same results and as controversial as it might sound - plant protein just doesn't cut it! We need the amino acids that animal based protein gives us, especially as we get older. 

Without enough protein:

• Your body loses lean muscle.

• Your metabolism slows down even further.

• You feel hungrier (hello, late-night snacking and carb cravings).

• Blood sugar rollercoasters make you tired and moody.

And guess what? That “muffin top” you can’t shift? Nine times out of ten, protein is playing a big role.

The benefits of protein for weight loss after 40

Here’s what happens when you start hitting your protein goals:

• Steadier blood sugar = steadier moods. No more 3pm crashes that leave you craving Tim Tams or chocolate. 

• Better appetite control. Protein keeps you fuller for longer, which means fewer late-night pantry raids.

• More muscle = faster metabolism. The more muscle you hold onto, the more calories your body burns naturally—even at rest.

• Easier weight loss (finally!). When your blood sugar is steady and your body is fuelled properly, fat loss feels less like a battle.

This isn’t about “dieting harder”. It’s about eating smarter.

Practical protein tips you can start today

You don’t need fancy powders or endless chicken breast to get this right. Here are simple swaps that my Townsville clients love:

• At breakfast: Swap toast and jam for 3 scrambled eggs with avo.

• At lunch: Add 150g of grilled chicken or steak to your salad (not just a sprinkle of tuna).

• At dinner: Aim for a palm-sized serve of protein—fish, chicken, beef, or lamb—alongside plenty of non-starchy veggies.

• Snacks: Think boiled eggs, Greek yoghurt (unsweetened), or a handful of nuts instead of biscuits.

And the magic number? Aim for 30 grams of protein at each meal. It’s the sweet spot for satiety, muscle maintenance, and fat loss.

Ready to.... 'Let That Weight Go'?

If you’re nodding along and thinking, “Yes, that’s me,” then it’s time to take the next step.

That’s exactly why I created my Let That Weight Go program—a step-by-step plan designed for women over 40 who are tired of dieting, cravings real results and ready to FUEL THEIR FIRE! 🔥.

You’ll learn how to build your meals with the right protein, healthy fats, and fibre so your body finally works with you, not against you.

👉 Click here to join Let That Weight Go today and start feeling lighter, brighter, and more energised—without restriction or overwhelm.