It’s one of the most common frustrations we hear:“I’m eating better, walking more, even skipping dessert — but my belly just won’t budge.” Many women assume it’s all hormones. And yes, changes in estrogen and metabolism can shift where fat collects.But more often, it’s a combination of modern living — processed foods, chemicals, chronic stress, and less sleep — quietly influencing how your body stores energy. That means it’s not hopeless. It just means your body needs a smar