In a personal account shared this year, fashion expert Susannah Constantine, 64, detailed how giving up sugar transformed both her physical health and overall wellbeing. After struggling with low energy, brain fog, and weight gain in the winter months, Constantine decided to make a significant lifestyle change that has since contributed to improved mental clarity, mood, and physical appearance.
Constantine recounted that despite maintaining a running regimen, by last winter she weighed nearly 11 stone 7 pounds and felt her cognitive function was impaired. Though she had abstained from alcohol for 14 years, she recognized a different form of addiction in her relationship with sugar, particularly in her consumption of chocolate. Describing the behavior as secretive and ritualistic, she noted the difficulty she faced in moderating her intake.
The turning point came in February during a trip to Portugal, where a friend arranged for her to meet a Brazilian nutritionist who recommended a detox that involved eliminating sugar entirely. Over the course of a week-long intervention, Constantine consumed very limited food—primarily green juices, minimal greens, and soups—to combat chronic inflammation linked to her diet. Observing signs such as dull eyes, coated tongue, and a greyish skin tone, the nutritionist attributed these symptoms to excessive sugar intake and processed foods.
Following the detox, Constantine reported an initial weight loss of five pounds and a renewed motivation to avoid reverting to previous habits. She acknowledged that quitting sugar was a greater challenge than giving up alcohol, requiring her to rethink daily routines and sources of comfort. However, after more than six months with minimal sugar consumption, she described better sleep quality, reduced anxiety by approximately 40 percent, improved skin hydration, and diminished signs of fatigue such as morning eye bags.
Constantine shared additional strategies that have supported her health and self-confidence. These include red light therapy for skin revitalization, selected skincare products, and a focus on strength training and running tailored to her own preferences. She emphasized the importance of savoring healthy, mostly savory meals throughout the day and maintaining moderation with occasional treats like dark chocolate or dates. She also highlighted the value of social connections, particularly friendships that provide mutual support, and advocated for dressing in a manner that reflects one’s age and body shape without feeling pressured to appear younger.
Addressing menopause, Constantine noted she does not use hormone replacement therapy (HRT) and called for more balanced dialogue on the subject, emphasizing the need for education and nuanced messaging to address the varied experiences women have during this stage of life.
On managing aging and public perception, Constantine remarked on handling online criticism with resilience and underscored the importance of contentment with one’s body and mind. She also recently collaborated with the shapewear brand Shapermint to launch a collection aimed at offering comfort and enhancing body confidence without focusing solely on weight loss.
Constantine’s experience illustrates how significant dietary changes, combined with holistic lifestyle adjustments, can foster improved physical health and emotional well-being, particularly in later adulthood.