Why Plateaus Happen — and How to Turn Them Into Progress

The Fasting Method Podcast

Episode #226

We’ve all been there — things are going great, the scale is moving, fasting feels easy… and then suddenly, everything stops. In this episode, Coaches Terri and Heather open up an honest conversation about plateaus: what causes them, why they’re normal, and how to move through them without losing your motivation. From dialing up your fasting rhythm to rethinking “healthy” foods that might be slowing your progress, this chat dives into the real-life adjustments that make a difference. They also explore how stress, sleep, and lifestyle habits play a bigger role than we often realize — and how to find balance again when things stall. If you’re feeling stuck or discouraged, this episode will remind you that plateaus aren’t failure — they’re part of the process. Listen in for encouragement, practical tips, and a few laughs along the way.

💭 What’s one lifestyle habit (not food or fasting!) that could help you move past your current plateau?

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Timestamps:

00:00 Not coming for your cheese — promise!

00:16 Why plateaus happen after early success

02:59 When to go beyond 24-hour fasts

05:23 Are “healthy” foods slowing you down?

08:00 Surprising glucose responses & tracking tips

10:43 The cheese and nuts conversation

14:10 Sneaky foods and inflammation

17:07 Restaurant traps and “hidden sugars”

18:24 Stress, planning, and lifestyle habits

21:14 The importance of “safety foods”

24:57 Why stress management = weight management

27:59 Proactive self-care and emotional awareness

30:46 You can’t change your body without changing your life

33:20 Focus on lifestyle, not just fasting

37:04 Pick two tips to carry with you

Disclaimer

This podcast is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional care by a doctor or other qualified medical professional. You should always speak with your physician or other healthcare professional before doing any fasting, changing your diet, taking or adjusting any medication or supplements, or adopting any treatment for a health problem. The use of any other products or services purchased by you as a result of this podcast does not create a healthcare provider-patient relationship between you and any of the experts affiliated with this podcast. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.