Why Fasting Can Backfire On Women's Hormones And Weight (And What To Do Instead)

Fasting and detoxing have become some of the most talked about wellness tools in recent years — and to be clear, they’re not inherently ‘bad’. In fact, when used appropriately, short‑term fasting can have genuine benefits.

Research shows that fasting may support cellular repair (autophagy), insulin sensitivity, anti-ageing, metabolism and lean muscle, fat loss and more! For some people, at certain life stages, fasting can feel clarifying and empowering.

But — and this is a very important but — most detoxes and fasting protocols were not designed with female hormones in mind. For many women, especially those over 30 or living with chronic stress, extreme detoxes don’t create balance — they create more hormonal disruption and can even lead to weight gain!

Women Are Different To Men!

Men don’t have the same cyclic hormone fluctuations as women. Their reproductive systems are less sensitive to short-term energy deficits, which is why fasting may actually boost key hormones like testosterone and growth hormone—both of which can enhance muscle growth, recovery, and fat loss. While having potential to POSITIVELY impact on male hormones, it can have the opposite effect for women.

What Actually Happens Hormonally During Extreme Detoxes

1. Cortisol levels can spike (even when you think you’re being healthy)

Cortisol is your main stress hormone. Severe calorie restriction or prolonged fasting is perceived by the body as stress. Chronically elevated cortisol can increase belly fat storage, disrupt sleep, block fat loss, increase inflammation and worsen anxiety and irritability. Not ideal, especially when you've gone to the lengths of putting yourself through that fast!

2. Thyroid hormones can lead to slowed metabolism

Your thyroid governs metabolism, body temperature, energy and mental clarity. When calories drop too low, the body often reduces conversion of active thyroid hormone (T3), slowing metabolic rate to conserve energy. Slower metabolism means less calories (and fat) burned.

3. Blood sugar instability creates hormonal chaos

This can happen in different ways depending on the plan you choose. A complete fast? Your blood sugar level drops, then (if you don't get your 'bookend' meals right) can spike up high after. Followed by another crash, leading to cravings, a yo-yo cycle and weight gain. Or maybe you choose a juice cleanse or liquid meals low in protein and fats. Many detoxes rely on juices or liquid meals that are low in protein and fats. This is an ultimate ways to trigger a blood sugar, energy and mood rollercoaster, directly impacting cortisol, insulin, estrogen and progesterone balance. And, yet again, weight.

4. Estrogen Detox Pathways Can Slow Down

Despite many claims, detoxes that severely restrict calories, or fasting, can impair liver detoxification pathways, which require adequate protein and micronutrients.

What works instead? Clever adaptogen supported cleanses, which get you the benefits without the cortisol and hormone rollercoaster!

True detoxification happens daily via the liver, gut, kidneys, lymph and skin. The goal is to support these systems with nourishment, stable blood sugar, digestion support and nervous system regulation. And this CAN be uplevelled with a form of fasting - adaptogenic supported cleansing. Well planned, coach supported 'bookend' meals and a science-based, botanical blend of adaptogens and uplevels to balance blood sugar, cortisol, energy, focus and metabolism throughout.

If detoxes haven’t worked for you — You didn’t fail!

Your body was communicating. Your body doesn’t need punishing — it needs understanding.

Curious to give it a try to both SEE and FEEL the impact?

Click HERE to ask questions or secure your space on the next 10 Day Supported Cleanse! Easy, enjoyable, involves REAL FOOD and I'll be with you every step of the way!

Ellie

Ultimate Health By Ellie