Health & Wellness
Intermittent Fasting! (IF)- Time to put down that fork and knife
It is essentially the timing of WHEN to eat, not necessarily what to eat.
What is Intermittent fasting?
We are back with another one. We are talking about Intermittent Fasting (IF). What is it? How is it? Why is it? Intermittent fasting first of all is an eating pattern that cycles between eating and fasting. It is essentially the timing of WHEN to eat, not necessarily what to eat. It is very crucial to note that it is not a diet but rather a lifestyle choice/pattern. With that said, let’s look at the good, the nice and the healthy of Intermittent Fasting.
How to fast intermittently?
Intermittent Fasting is currently a massive health trend, and plenty swear by it to keep in tip top form. I’m sure the first question that comes to mind is, “How do I fast?” Well there are several ways to do Intermittent Fasting. One of the ways is the 16/8 method. This is simply fasting for a period of 16 hours and eating within a period of 8 hours. This would mean skipping breakfast and having your first meal after 12PM/1PM, then having your last meal by 7PM/8PM. This is probably the most popular and easiest way to practice IF.
You guessed right, there is more than one way to practice Intermittent Fasting. Another way is the Eat-Stop-Eat method. This method involves eating normally on 5 days of the week and fasting 24 hours at least twice in a week. This I would not recommend for beginners. Start your way up slowly from the 16/8 method. Well, unless you can handle it. Another popular method of Intermittent Fasting would be the 5:2 method. This particular method would require you to consume a very low 500-600 calories on two non-consecutive days of the week.
What are the potential benefits of IF?
Alright so we’ve looked at the ways to do it, but, is it worth it? Is it healthy? That my friends is a fantastic question. According to various scientific studies and tests, IF has a plethora of Health benefits including weight-loss, insulin reduction, cell repair and cell renewal and even extending your lifespan! That sounds pretty incredible to me. Weight-loss. You fast, you lose weight. Lower calorie intake, more fat burn equals a slimmer waist honey.
The body adjusts hormone levels to make stored fat accessible, making fat burning a much easier process. Insulin sensitivity is improved and insulin levels drop significantly. Lower insulin levels make stored fat more accessible. Now see why we’re always telling you to lay low on the sugar babes? Hmm? Cellular Repair, my favourite benefit so far. Body cells start a process called autophagy. Look it up! This is basically when new cells remove old tired cells and old protein within cells. So apparently Intermittent Fasting helps you live longer, it strengthens immunity. I mean is that a plus or what?
Are there any side effects to Intermittent Fasting?
Now let’s take a look at the downside of IF. Well the most notable and most serious side effect of IF would definitely be hunger and hunger pangs. You will probably experience weakness and a lack of concentration in the first few days of Intermittent Fasting, but keep it up and your body will adjust and start to feel better. Consult a doctor if you’re pregnant, or diabetic, or on medication before starting Intermittent fasting. Otherwise it is generally very safe. You are allowed to drink sugar free liquids such as water, coffee and tea. Stay hydrated and give it a try, it might just change your life.
Otherwise have yourself a blessed and fantastic day!
