Hello! I completely understand where you're coming from. It’s very common to feel disconnected from your body, especially when working a desk job. Let’s take this one step at a time so you don't feel overwhelmed. Step 1: Your Metabolism Explained Think of your metabolism like a car engine. Even when parked (sitting at your desk), it burns fuel (calories) just to keep the radio on and the engine running—this is your Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR). Regarding your concern: studies show that human metabolism actually remains quite stable from age 20 all the way to 60! What usually happens around age 19 isn't a broken metabolism, but a shift in lifestyle—we stop playing school sports, sit more, and our daily calorie burn drops without us realizing it. Step 2: Let's Get to Know You Before we talk about portions, I need to know a bit more about your reality. Please answer these 5 questions whenever you're ready: 1. How many hours of sleep do you usually get, and do you wake up feeling rested? 2. What are 3 of your absolute favorite foods that you wouldn't want to give up? 3. On a scale of 1-10, how high is your daily stress level at work? 4. Do you drink calories during the day (sodas, juices, coffees with milk/sugar)? 5. What time of day do you find it hardest to control your cravings? I'm pausing here. Take your time, and let me know your answers!