Intermittent Fasting: Understanding the Trend and its benefits

What is Intermittent Fasting?

Intermittend fasting is a pattern of eating that involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. There are several different types of intermittent fasting, but the most popular ones involve fasting for 16-24 hours at a time, either daily or a few times a week.

Benefits of Intermittent Fasting:

• Weight Loss

  One of the primary benefits of intermittent fasting is weight loss. By limiting the amount of time you have to eat, you naturally consume fewer calories, leading to weight loss. Additionally, fasting can increase your metabolic rate, which can further aid in weight loss.

• Improved Insulin Sensitivity

  Intermittent fasting can also improve insulin sensitivity, which is important for people with type 2 diabetes. By limiting the time you have to eat, your body becomes more efficient at using insulin, which can help lower blood sugar levels.

• Reduced Inflammation

  Intermittent fasting can also help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is linked to many chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.

• Improved Brain Function

  Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve brain function and enhance cognitive performance. This may be because fasting increases the production of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), a protein that plays a role in learning and memory.

Potential Drawbacks of Intermittent Fasting

• Hunger

  Intermittent fasting can be challenging because it involves periods of hunger. This can be especially difficult for people who are used to eating frequently throughout the day.

• Nutrient Deficiencies

  If you are not eating a balanced diet during your eating periods, intermittent fasting can lead to nutrient deficiencies. It is important to eat a variety of nutrient-dense foods during your eating periods to prevent nutrient deficiencies.

• Binge Eating

  Intermittent fasting can also lead to binge eating, especially if you are not used to fasting. This can be counterproductive if your goal is weight loss.

• Low Blood Sugar

  Intermittent fasting can also lead to low blood sugar levels, especially in people with diabetes. This can be dangerous, as low blood sugar can cause dizziness, confusion, and even seizures.

We have posted a short video about “What Exercises Can You Do During Fasting?”. Give yourself a try!

If you are considering intermittent fasting, it is important to talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian to make sure it is safe for you. Additionally, it is important to approach intermittent fasting with caution and to start with shorter fasting periods before attempting longer ones.

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