Whether you’re seeking to shed those stubborn pounds, boost mental clarity, or improve heart health, intermittent fasting (IF) may help you achieve your health goals. In recent years, this type of eating has become increasingly popular to manage weight and improve overall health. It involves changing the periods of time during which you eat and fast, with different fasting schedules available to suit different lifestyles and preferences.
The Different Types
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that involves alternating periods of eating and fasting. The most popular type is the 16/8 method, where you fast for 16 hours and eat during an eight-hour window. Another popular method is the 18/6 method, where you fast for 18 hours and eat during a six-hour window. There are also more extreme methods, such as the 24-hour fast or the five days of eating followed by two days of fasting.
What Are Some Benefits?
Here are some of the top health benefits of intermittent fasting:
- Weight Control: Can help you lose weight by reducing your calorie intake and boosting your metabolism.
- Metabolic Advantages: Can improve your body’s metabolism, making it easier to burn calories and fat.
- Diabetes Prevention: Can lower insulin resistance, making it an effective tool for preventing diabetes.
- Help for Hypertension: Can help lower blood pressure, making it a good diet for those with hypertension.
- Improved Focus: Can activate ketones, which can become the primary energy source for the brain, leading to improved focus and mental clarity.
What to Consider Before Starting
Before starting IF, it’s important to consider the following:
Consult a Professional: Talk to a nutritionist or chiropractor before starting intermittent fasting to ensure it is safe and right for you.
Consider Contraindications: Intermittent fasting is not recommended for certain people, including pregnant and breastfeeding women, children under 18 years of age, those with a history or risk of an eating disorder, and individuals who are underweight. Those taking medications may also need to consult with their doctor before beginning any type of fasting diet.
If you’d like to try IF but would like the advice of a professional contact First State Health & Wellness to speak with one of our chiropractors. With proper guidance and experimentation, intermittent fasting can be a safe and beneficial addition to your lifestyle.
Sources: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8839325/