This Sugar Diet Trend Is NOT What You Think (Especially for Women Over 40)

a raspberry with sugar on a spoon

Photo by Myriam Zilles

If your TikTok feed is filled with fruit bowls, juicing, and pasta dishes claiming to “heal metabolism,” you’ve probably come across the sugar diet trend.

Here’s the thing: it’s being marketed as a “sugar fast” or “metabolism reset”…
But it’s not a detox.
It’s not balanced.
And for many women in perimenopause or menopause, it’s doing way more harm than good.

Let’s break it down.

What Is the Sugar Diet?

The sugar diet is a viral trend that involves eating mostly:

  • Fruit

  • Fruit juices

  • Pasta and bread

  • Very little fat or protein

It’s usually promoted by younger men or fitness influencers who say it helps them lose weight, boost energy, and feel amazing.

Why It Doesn’t Work for Women Over 40

As a doctor who works with women in perimenopause every day, I’ve got some concerns:

  1. No Fat = No Hormones
    Your body needs fat to make estrogen, progesterone, and cortisol. A low-fat diet can make hormone imbalances worse.

  2. No Protein = Muscle Loss
    Without enough protein, your body starts breaking down muscle—especially dangerous as we age and metabolism naturally slows.

  3. Blood Sugar Spikes
    Fruit and refined carbs without fat or protein? That’s a recipe for mood swings, cravings, and hormone chaos.

  4. Hidden Inflammation
    This way of eating fuels inflammation, which increases your risk for insulin resistance, thyroid issues, and autoimmune conditions.

Here’s the Bottom Line:

If you’re a woman over 40 trying to lose weight, balance your hormones, and feel like yourself again—this sugar diet is not the way.

Want the Full Breakdown?

In my latest YouTube video, I explain:

  • What this trend actually is

  • The science behind why it backfires for women

  • And what to do instead for real, sustainable results

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/0-dyolGarpI?si=QRQXJvF5335gB9iQ

Ready to Take a More Holistic Approach?

If you're tired of guessing and want a personalized plan based on your hormones and your goals, you can book a call with me here:  https://my.practicebetter.io/#/6489f5324d10d09f3a76b30b/bookings?s=68262215932c45461476cee0 

You can also check out my Fat Loss Guide for Women Over 40 if you’re ready for a smarter strategy: https://drreneewellenstein.thrivecart.com/fat-loss-for-women-over-40/

Your body isn’t broken. It just needs a different approach.

Let’s figure out what works for you.

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