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Intermittent Fasting: What’s the Big Deal Anyways?

Writer's picture: dragoman7002dragoman7002

Updated: May 8, 2024



A dietary practice known as intermittent fasting, entails alternating between periods of eating and not eating for periods of time. It is a pattern of eating that seeks to limit caloric intake at specified times rather than a specific diet or list of foods to eat.


However, it has also been practiced for centuries for spiritual and cultural reasons.

Intermittent fasting has grown in favor recently as a weight loss and health promotion technique.


There are several different methods of intermittent fasting, including the 16/8 method (also known as the Leangains protocol), in which people fast for 16 hours and eat during an 8-hour window; the 5:2 diet, in which people eat normally for 5 days and restrict calorie intake to 500–600 calories on the other 2 non-consecutive days; and alternate day fasting, in which people fast every other day.


How Intermittent Fasting Can Positively Affect the Body:

Weight loss: Losing weight is one of the key motivations for implementing intermittent fasting. The body is compelled to use fat reserves as energy when calories are restricted at specific periods, which might result in weight loss. Additionally, intermittent fasting might aid in lowering cravings and boosting feelings of satiety, which would make it simpler to maintain a diet low in calories.


Increased insulin sensitivity: It has been demonstrated that intermittent fasting increases insulin sensitivity, which can help reduce the chance of developing type 2 diabetes. Blood sugar levels are regulated by the hormone insulin, and when the body develops an insulin resistance, blood sugar levels may increase and diabetes may occur.


Longevity: Studies have suggested that intermittent fasting may increase lifespan by promoting cellular repair processes and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders.


Improved cognitive function: Intermittent fasting has been linked to improved cognitive function, including increased focus and concentration. It may also help protect against age-related cognitive decline.


Reduced inflammation: Inflammation is a natural response of the body to injury or infection, but chronic inflammation has been linked to a number of diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Intermittent fasting has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body.


Advice on How to Implement Intermittent Fasting in Your Life:

  • If you’re new to intermittent fasting, ease into it gradually by beginning slowly. Start with a shorter window of time for fasting, like 12 hours, then extend it over time.

  • Pick a strategy that works for you: There are many various approaches to intermittent fasting, so it’s crucial to pick the one that fits your needs and way of life the best.

  • Consume nutrient-rich foods: Although intermittent fasting is not a particular diet, it’s crucial to concentrate on eating.


Relevant Scientific Research:

  • A comprehensive review and meta-analysis published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition in 2018 indicated that compared to continuous calorie restriction, intermittent fasting resulted in a much larger loss of weight.

  • According to a 2014 study that appeared in the journal Cell Metabolism, alternate-day fasting increased insulin sensitivity and decreased the incidence of type 2 diabetes.

  • Intermittent fasting may lengthen longevity by encouraging cellular repair mechanisms and lowering the risk of chronic diseases, according to a 2017 review article in the journal Aging.

  • A study published in the journal Neurobiology of Aging in 2015 found that intermittent fasting improved cognitive function in mice and protected against age-related cognitive decline.

  • A study published in the journal Free Radical Biology and Medicine in 2015 found that intermittent fasting reduced inflammation in the body.


In summary, intermittent fasting is a lifestyle strategy that alternates between eating and not eating during certain time windows. It has been demonstrated to have a range of possible health advantages, including inflammation reduction, weight loss, higher insulin sensitivity, longer lifespan, and improved cognitive performance.


The information that is now available suggests that intermittent fasting may be a beneficial technique for enhancing general health and well-being, even if additional research is required to completely understand the mechanisms underlying these advantages.


If you’re thinking about implementing intermittent fasting into your life, it’s crucial to pick a strategy that suits you and concentrate on consuming nutrient-dense foods when you’re eating. Intermittent fasting can be a secure and efficient strategy to increase your health and reduce disease with appropriate preparation and self-monitoring.



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