What is Intermittent Fasting?
Hey everyone! So recently on my instagram I made a poll about whether or not people would want to learn more about intermittent fasting, and the majority said yes. So I thought, why not make a post about it!
I just want to put out a disclaimer that I am not a nutritionist nor a dietitian, this is just something I have been doing for about 2 years (not always consistently lol). Always make sure to consult your doctor before making any extreme changes in your diet.
What is Intermittent Fasting?
In basic terms, it's not eating (a foreign concept to me) for an extended amount of time and then eating within a certain time frame. There are different types of intermittent fasting (IF) such as time-restricted IF. The most common type of time-restricted IF (and easiest in my opinion) is the 16/8 (16 hours of fasting and 8 hours of eating). I know that may sound daunting, but once you get into the routine of it, it becomes easy.
Intermittent fasting is not a diet, but a lifestyle!
With intermittent fasting, there isn't a certain type of food group you cut out or eat less of. You don't even HAVE to eat less (but naturally you will) and this is because intermittent fasting is not a diet, but a lifestyle! That sounds pretty lame to say honestly, but it's the truth! With IF you are adjusting your eating schedule to a certain time frame so that you can put your body into a fasted state and burn fat!
How does intermittent fasting work?
When your body needs energy, it uses glucose (sugar) as it's energy source. When the body is in a fasted state, it begins searching for other ways to obtain energy and that is when weight loss will begin to happen. The body begins to use ketones, which is stored in fat, as its energy source and this happens after 12 hours of fasting. Intermittent fasting over a long period of time can also benefit the body in other ways such as lowering your cholesterol, blood pressure and controlling your glucose levels. It's also been proven to help with diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular diseases.
My tips to beginning intermittent fasting!
Be prepared to be hungry at first, I won't lie! The first couple weeks are brutal lol. During that time of fasting, you'll be very hungry and wanting to snack, but resist!
Take into account your daily schedule to plan when your eating time frame will be. I think eating between 12 and 8PM is the best, personally.
DRINK WATER!! You have to stay hydrated while fasting since you are going so long without anything else. Not only that, but drinking water can also help to curb your appetite. You could also drink teas and black coffee since they don't have calories.
Make sure that your meals during your feeding time are healthy and nutritious!
If you are working out, it is best to work out during your fasted state.
I hope this post allows you to learn a little about intermittent fasting and maybe you could implement it in to your life! Regardless of any diet or lifestyle, the most important thing is that you are eating well and giving your body the nutrients it needs!
Au revoir, Melanie ✨