What if inflammation is the missing link behind so many of the symptoms women experience after 40? In this solo episode, Dr. Mariza breaks down the powerful connection between low-grade chronic inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, hormone changes, brain health, energy production, and accelerated aging. She explains why inflammation is far more than an immune system issue and how it silently influences nearly every aspect of health during perimenopause and menopause. Many women assume that fatigue, brain fog, stubborn belly fat, poor sleep, anxiety, joint pain, cravings, and declining energy are separate issues requiring separate solutions. But Dr. Mariza reveals how these symptoms are often interconnected through one common underlying process: inflammation. She also explores why perimenopause is not simply a hormone transition but a metabolic, vascular, and neuroendocrine transition that increases inflammatory burden and changes how the body responds to stress, blood sugar fluctuations, sleep disruption, and hormonal shifts. Most importantly, Dr. Mariza shares the practical lifestyle pillars she uses to lower inflammation, improve metabolic flexibility, support hormone health, and create the internal environment needed for healthy aging and long-term vitality. If you've been feeling like your body is changing but can't quite connect the dots, this episode will help you understand what inflammation may be trying to tell you. IN THIS EPISODE Why low-grade inflammation is one of the biggest drivers of symptoms after 40 The connection between inflammation, metabolism, hormones, and aging How perimenopause increases inflammatory burden throughout the body The labs Dr. Mariza recommends to assess inflammation and metabolic health Why blood sugar regulation is one of the fastest ways to lower inflammation The critical role of muscle, movement, sleep, and nervous system regulation How gut health influences inflammation, immunity, and metabolism Practical daily habits that help reduce inflammation and support healthy aging QUOTES“The goal isn't simply to lose weight. The goal is creating an internal environment where the body no longer feels the need to stay inflamed.” “One workout cannot undo eight hours of sitting.” “When inflammation comes down, everything goes up.” RESOURCES MENTIONED Use code ENERGIZED and get 10% off on your MitoQ Order https://www.mitoq.com/energized%C2%A0 ⁠Order my newest book: The Perimenopause Revolution https://peri-revolution.com/ Fix Your Metabolism Masterclass Joi & Blokes Lab Testing Blood Sugar Hacks Guide RELATED EPISODES  755: What If Your Body Isn’t Broken, Just Undernourished? The Missing Link Between Nutrients, Hormones & Energy with Ryan Woodburry 753: The Brain’s Hidden Role in Chronic Pain, Migraines & Fatigue with Dr. Howard Schubiner 751: Bloating, Brain Fog & Hormone Chaos? Your Gut May Be the Root Cause with Dr. Cassie Smith 741: Estrogen, Gut Health, Mitochondria, and Cardiovascular Health: What Changes In Perimenopause with Dr. Siobhan Mitchel