Fasting for Women over 40… is it worth it?
I recently read an article about 72-hour fasting and the idea of “resetting” the body through deep cellular healing.
And while I understand why these conversations are becoming more popular in the wellness world, it’s not something I would personally recommend lightly — especially for women who are already under stress, exhausted, overwhelmed, undernourished, or navigating hormonal changes.
As women over 40 and into menopause, our bodies are already adapting to so much.
Many women I work with are juggling careers, caring responsibilities, broken sleep, fluctuating hormones, stress, anxiety, and the pressure to “fix” their bodies. The last thing some nervous systems need is another layer of restriction.
That doesn’t mean fasting is inherently bad.
There is genuine science around giving the digestive system a break, improving insulin sensitivity, and allowing the body periods of rest from constant grazing and highly processed foods. Some people feel clearer, lighter, and more energised with gentle fasting approaches.
But wellness should never become punishment.
For me, true wellness is about asking:
“What helps the body feel safe, strong, nourished, and supported?”
And for many women in midlife, the answer is often:
more protein
better sleep
strength and mobility work
nervous system regulation
walking
rest
hydration
balanced blood sugar
less stress on the body, not more
At Serendipity Wellness & Pilates, I believe health should feel sustainable and compassionate, not extreme.
I’m always cautious of trends that promise dramatic “resets,” because our bodies are not machines that need punishing into submission. They’re intelligent systems constantly communicating with us.
Sometimes the healthiest thing we can do is not to restrict harder…
…but to listen better.
If fasting is something you’re curious about, I’d always encourage approaching it gently, with awareness of your stress levels, hormones, energy, relationship with food, and overall health — rather than following dramatic wellness trends online.
Midlife wellness isn’t about becoming smaller.
It’s about becoming stronger, calmer, more resilient, and more connected to yourself.
And that’s a much more powerful kind of healing.
About Serendipity Wellness®
Serendipity Wellness provides Pilates classes, wellness coaching, women’s health support, and holistic wellbeing services across Warwickshire. Founded by Tracy Richardson, the business supports women through movement, mindfulness, midlife wellness, and community connection.
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Tracy Richardson MSc is a movement and wellness specialist with a background in therapy, Pilates, and wellbeing, she combines evidence-based practice with a nurturing, mindful approach. Tracy’s mission is to empower individuals to move with awareness, release tension, and cultivate sustainable health, strength, and inner calm. When she’s not teaching or writing, you’ll often find her walking her dog, practising Pilates, or sipping a calming cup of tea.
