Introduction In the whirlwind of dietary trends, the low carb high fat (LCHF) approach, famously known as the ketogenic diet, has taken center stage. Its allure lies in the promise of shedding pounds by slashing carbs and turning our bodies into fat-burning machines. Yet, for many women, this path to weight loss isn’t a smooth ride. Let’s delve into why the classic keto journey might not be the golden ticket for everyone.
The Testosterone Tango: Men vs. Women Men seem to have a secret weapon in the weight loss battle: testosterone. This hormone gives them a muscle and metabolism boost, speeding up calorie burn and making weight loss a bit easier. On keto, men often revel in a double dose of benefits as it can also ramp up their testosterone levels. It's like having a turbocharged engine for fat burning and muscle building.
Now, let’s switch gears to women. Our hormonal landscape is quite different, with lower testosterone and higher estrogen levels. This hormonal mix doesn’t offer the same weight loss perks on keto. Instead, it can lead to slower progress and less dramatic weight loss outcomes.
The Menopausal Metabolism Mishap As women transition through perimenopause and into menopause, the weight game can take an unexpected turn. Metabolism slows down, influenced by factors like changes in thyroid function, estrogen levels, and the notorious cortisol.

Thyroid hormones, vital for regulating metabolism, can hit a speed bump as we age—a phenomenon known as ‘thyropause.’ This slowdown can bring along weight gain, fatigue, and a sluggish feeling.
Speaking of estrogen, its decline during and after menopause is associated with a shift in fat distribution, favoring the abdomen. This change isn’t just a cosmetic concern but can also have health implications, as abdominal fat is linked with insulin resistance—a major player in weight loss challenges.
The Complex Web of Hormones Apart from insulin, cortisol, thyroid, and estrogen, several other hormones influence our metabolism. Leptin and ghrelin regulate hunger and satiety, while testosterone and growth hormone play crucial roles in energy balance.
Keto’s Hormonal Rollercoaster The ketogenic diet has garnered praise for its ability to tackle insulin resistance, a common hurdle in weight loss. However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows for women on keto.

In my practice, I’ve observed that women may struggle with elevated stress hormones (hello, cortisol), thyroid imbalances, and menstrual irregularities while on keto. A poorly balanced keto diet lacking in fiber and essential nutrients can further exacerbate these issues.

Moreover, keto can throw a wrench into our sleep patterns. Quality sleep is a cornerstone of good health, yet keto-induced sleep disruptions are more common in women than men. This domino effect on our hormones can sabotage weight loss efforts.
Navigating the Keto Conundrum So, does this mean women should steer clear of keto altogether? Not necessarily. It’s about understanding our unique hormonal landscape and making informed choices.

Before diving into keto, women should assess their hormone levels, especially thyroid function and stress hormone levels. Optimizing these factors can pave the way for a smoother keto experience.

Additionally, focusing on a well-rounded keto diet that includes ample fiber, nutrient-dense vegetables, and healthy fats can mitigate hormonal disruptions. I love to incorporate what is known as carb cycling into the ketogenic diet.
The Art of Carb Cycling Carb cycling is a dynamic nutritional strategy that involves alternating between high-carb and low-carb days throughout the week. This approach harnesses the power of carbohydrates strategically, syncing them with your body's energy needs. For women, carb cycling can be particularly beneficial for metabolism due to its ability to optimize insulin sensitivity, promote fat burning, and prevent metabolic adaptation often seen with prolonged low-carb diets. By cycling carbs, we keep the metabolism guessing, which prevents it from plateauing and maintains a robust metabolic rate. This method not only supports weight management goals but also helps in sustaining energy levels and hormonal balance, making it a valuable tool in women's health and wellness journeys.
Conclusion In the realm of weight loss strategies, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The ketogenic diet, while effective for many, may pose challenges for women navigating hormonal intricacies.

By shedding light on the hormonal nuances at play, we empower women to make informed choices about their health journeys. Whether it’s keto or another approach, the key lies in harmony—balancing our hormones, nourishing our bodies, and embracing sustainable lifestyle changes for lasting well-being.
So, let’s talk let’s work together in your weight loss journey.Book a discovery call here.