A form of eating pattern known as intermittent fasting alternates between periods of eating and fasting. The 16/8 approach, which involves fasting for 16 hours and eating within an 8-hour window, is one of the most well-known forms of intermittent fasting.
When the body has a slow metabolism, it burns calories more slowly than usual. This may make it more difficult to maintain a healthy weight and lose weight.
There is proof that intermittent fasting may aid in boosting metabolism, which may result in weight loss. This is so that your body may start using fat instead of carbohydrates for energy while you fast and enter a state known as ketosis. This may result in a rise in the body’s rate of calorie burning.
Additionally, intermittent fasting can help control blood sugar levels, which can lower the chance of acquiring diseases like diabetes. In addition, studies indicate that intermittent fasting may help the body lessen inflammation, which is linked to a number of illnesses like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease.
It’s crucial to remember that not every person’s body reacts to intermittent fasting in the same manner. Some individuals might discover that it slows their metabolism and makes it more difficult to lose weight. This is due to the fact that when you fast for an extended length of time, your body may go into starvation mode and begin to preserve energy and slow down the metabolism.
It’s crucial to consult a dietitian or your doctor before beginning an intermittent fasting routine to ensure that it’s safe for you. They may also assist you in developing a strategy that is customized to your unique requirements and objectives.
In conclusion, intermittent fasting can be a useful strategy for shedding pounds and improving general health, but it’s vital to remember that not everyone can benefit from it, especially those with poor metabolic rates. As always, seeking medical advice before making any big dietary changes is imperative.
References:
- Mattson, M. P., & Wan, R. (2005). Beneficial effects of intermittent fasting and caloric restriction on the cardiovascular and cerebrovascular systems. The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, 16(3), 129-137.
- Ho, K. Y., Veldhuis, J. D., Johnson, M. L., Furlanetto, R., Evans, W. S., & Alberti, K. G. (1983). Fasting enhances growth hormone secretion and amplifies the complex rhythms of growth hormone secretion in man. The Journal of Clinical Investigation, 72(6), 1868-1878.
- Longo, V. D., & Mattson, M. P. (2014). Fasting: molecular mechanisms and clinical applications. Cell metabolism, 19(2), 181-192.
- Klempel, M. C., Kroeger, C. M., & Bhutani, S. (2012). Intermittent fasting combined with calorie restriction is effective for weight loss and cardio-protection in obese women. Nutrition journal, 11(1), 98.
- Anson, R. M., Guo, Z., de Cabo, R., Iyun, T., Rios, M., Hagepanos, A., … & Mattson, M. P. (2003). Intermittent fasting dissociates beneficial effects of dietary restriction on glucose metabolism and neuronal resistance to injury from calorie intake. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 100(10), 6216-6220.
