Consider your lifestyle.
Women with high stress levels or intense exercise routines may find fasting counterproductive. Cortisol, the stress hormone, rises during fasting — and when combined with chronic stress, it can lead to fat storage, particularly around the abdomen.
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In the UK, interest in IF remains high, with Google Trends showing steady search volume for “intermittent fasting for women” throughout 2024. Brands like Huel, Zone, and Spoonful have launched fasting-supporting meal replacements and snack bars tailored to women’s nutritional needs.
Ultimately, intermittent fasting isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution. For some women over 30, it can be a useful tool for metabolic health when done mindfully. For others, consistent balanced eating and stress management may be more effective. As Dr. Reeves puts it: “Health isn’t about restriction — it’s about sustainability. If fasting supports your well-being without sacrificing your energy or hormones, it might be worth exploring. But if it feels like a burden, it’s okay to choose a different path.”
