Cutting carbs can actually raise your cortisol and make fat loss harder, especially after 35. It slows your thyroid, tanks your sleep, raises cravings, and can even lead to muscle loss and blood sugar crashes. Most women end up eating less, doing more cardio, and feeling stuck — not because they’re doing it wrong, but because their body’s stressed out. Instead of fearing carbs, you need to fuel your metabolism, lift weights, balance your meals, and work with your hormones — not against them.