Hormones play a huge role in how we feel every day.

They influence energy levels, sleep quality, mood, appetite, and even how our bodies respond to exercise. While hormone fluctuations are a natural part of life, certain habits can help support balance and overall wellbeing.

When people talk about metabolism, it’s often linked only to weight loss. But metabolism is much more than that.

Your metabolism is simply how your body converts food into energy to support everything you do,  from breathing and digestion to movement and exercise. One of the most effective ways to support a healthy metabolism is building muscle through strength training.

Following on from last week’s conversation about muscle…Let’s talk about something that quietly matters just as much. Protein.

Because here’s what I see often:

Women are training.
Women are walking more as the weather improves.
Women are trying to “eat clean.”

But protein intake? Often far lower than what research suggests is optimal.

You’ve probably seen it everywhere lately. GLP-1 medications. Rapid weight loss. Dramatic transformations. People say their dramatic weight loss is just from ‘fasting’ (i call BS!)

It’s a huge topic in women’s health right now and like most big trends, the conversation is focusing almost entirely on weight. But there’s something important being talked about less. Muscle.

I’m Jess - founder of Function & Poise. My work sits at the intersection of strength, Pilates, mindset, and long-term wellbeing “power with intention, movement with meaning”. As promised, this newsletter is where I break down women’s health research in a way that feels clear, calm, and genuinely useful.

Nutrition and training

Are you pushing your body and mind too far?

How to breakup with your scales

3 lies the Health & Fitness industry is telling you.

Do you get sore knees when you exercise?