Intermittent fasting has become popularised over the last few years as being an effective weight loss technique, but actually there is so much more to this eating cycle than meets the eye.
I'm going to give you an introduction into this fas
ting technique below:
What is Intermittent Fasting?
IF involves periods of fasting from anything with a caloric value for a set period of time. There are many ways this can be done, but one of the most popular is the 16:8 method- that is fasting for 16 hours a day, and allowing food consumption for an 8 hour window. This time split, although perhaps the most common, is not the only way this can be done.
Why Is Intermittent Fasting So Popular?
This method can be really useful for a range of purposes, including (but not limited to):
· Weight management- restricting the hours that one can consume calories usually leads to weight loss. IF doesn’t restrict or control WHAT is consumed in the eating bracket though, so this is not always the case.
· Blood Sugar Regulation- IF can be very helpful for re-balancing our insulin (a hormone in our bodies that uses and distributes any form of sugar consumed). Studies have shown those who have any issues with insulin resistance usually benefit from this fasting method, as during the fasting period, the body is encouraged to use existing store sugar and carbs, assisting in regulating this hormone.
· Self Control- Having some sort of structure to follow can be really effective in creating new habits. Sometimes it’s easy to get stuck in an unhelpful cycle or rut, and by creating a drastic change in structure, change in eating habits follow suit. It’s a good way to show yourself you can do hard (or different) things.
· Encourages Human Growth Hormone Levels- As the name suggests, HGH plays a role in growth (muscular included), and therefore the way we burn fat (amongst other things). Lower levels in HGH can be seen in those with more sedentary and unhealthy lifestyles, and has been shown to contribute to the prevalence of disease. IF assists in cellular and metabolic regulation to help increase our HGH.
Should I Try It?
With any dietary change, first comes the question, ‘why?’. My personal and professional feelings on IF are very positive, however, it does come down to you and your reason. I do not encourage this format as a way to control an eating disorder or encourage body dysmorphia.
If you would like to try fasting and want to make it a realistic fit into your lifestyle, I recommend working with a professional to help you get started and make it work for your needs.
And remember- WHAT you eat will always be more important than anything, regardless.
I hope this has given you a good introduction into IF!
Nanci x
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