For many women in midlife and beyond, cravings feel louder than they used to, especially in the afternoon or evening. This may be a blood sugar signal. And if you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “Why can’t I get it together anymore?” I want you to hear this clearly: you are not broken.
In our 30s, 40s, and 50s, the body becomes more sensitive to stress, sleep disruption, and hormonal shifts. That can change the way we process carbohydrates, respond to insulin, and regulate energy throughout the day. And when blood sugar swings happen, cravings often show up right behind them because your body is trying to stabilize.
As a woman trying to be a good steward of your body (and still serve your family, your church, and everyone who needs you), it helps to remember that your body gives signals for a reason. Caring for that temple includes learning how it works.
What Blood Sugar Swings Actually Feel Like
Blood sugar imbalance doesn’t always show up as a number on a lab test. It often shows up as:
- Feeling shaky or irritable when you go too long without eating
- A sudden urge for sweets or crunchy snacks
- Afternoon fatigue and “brain fog.”
- Waking up tired even after sleep
- Getting hungry again quickly after meals
These patterns are especially common in midlife when insulin sensitivity naturally declines, and the body becomes more protective of energy.
Why Cravings Aren’t About Willpower
Cravings are the body’s way of saying: “I need stable fuel.”
When blood sugar rises too quickly (often after a high-carb meal without enough protein or fiber), insulin is released to move that glucose into cells. If the drop that follows is too sharp, your brain senses it as an emergency. It responds by increasing hunger hormones and cravings, especially for fast-acting sugar.
So the cycle becomes:
Spike → crash → crave → repeat.
So if you're blaming yourself for “having no self-control,” understand what’s really happening is the body trying to correct instability. There is a place for self-control in the Christian life, but control requires knowledge. “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind” (2 Timothy 1:7). A sound mind includes understanding what your body needs so you can respond with wisdom.
Midlife Adds Extra Layers
In midlife, blood sugar balance can become more fragile because:
- Sleep may be lighter or interrupted
- Cortisol (stress hormone) may run higher
- Estrogen and progesterone shifts affect insulin response
- Muscle mass declines, reducing glucose storage capacity
This is why the same habits that worked in your 20s and 30s may feel less effective now. Your body is adapting to the consequences of living the American culture lifestyle.
What Actually Helps
You don’t need extreme restriction. In fact, overly strict dieting can backfire by increasing stress and making blood sugar swings worse.
Instead, focus on stability:
1) Prioritize protein at breakfast
A protein-rich breakfast helps reduce cravings later in the day. It tells your body, “We are nourished,” and improves satiety signals. If mornings are busy, start simple: build one reliable breakfast you can repeat without thinking.
2) Add fiber, not fear
Fiber slows glucose absorption and supports gut signaling. Many women under-eat fiber, especially when trying low-carb approaches. Stability improves when the body has a consistent, nourishing source of fruit and vegetables.
3) Don’t wait until you’re starving
Skipping meals or going too long without eating can amplify cravings and lead to overeating later. Consistent routine matters more than perfection. “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40) applies to health stewardship too—steady rhythms help your body feel safe.
4) Move after meals
A short walk after eating helps glucose move into the muscles more efficiently, supporting insulin sensitivity. Even 15-20 minutes counts, especially if it’s all you can do in this season of life.
5) Support stress and sleep
High stress makes blood sugar harder to regulate. If your nervous system is overwhelmed, cravings will increase, because your body is seeking comfort and quick energy. This is also where faith becomes practical: “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest” (Matthew 11:28). Sometimes the most spiritual thing you can do for your metabolism is to build in true rest.
Remember the Goal: Health Stewardship
Remember, cravings are the body's communication. When you learn what your body is actually communicating, you can respond with wisdom and nourishment to quiet the cravings.
Christ is living within, he contains all knowledge of your body's function. Look to him for guidance and direction in the stewardship of His temple.
And on the hard days, when cravings feel relentless, you can still choose your next right step. “But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection:...” (I Corinthians 9:27a). Your health legacy is built one faithful decision at a time.
If you’re ready to take control of your metabolic health and start turning back the scale to healthier days. Get my guide on Why Managing Weight Starts in the Gut along with the BONUS class recording. Stewardship 2026 starts today.
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