Intermittent fasting is a new phenomenon in the health and fitness world. By definition, intermittent means stopping and starting at regular intervals and fasting means abstaining from food. When you put the two words together it becomes a diet regimen of eating at scheduled times of the day and then fasting the next.
Fasting does NOT mean starving in a way that is unhealthy. If you practice intermittent fasting properly the health benefits are numerous. An article in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reviewing intermittent fasting suggests such benefits as a decrease in fat mass, improvement in glucose uptake and insulin sensitivity, lowering of blood pressure and a reduction in damage to lipids, protein and DNA. Other studies suggest muscle and joint pain relief, healthier digestive system and a longer lifespan can be gained by following an intermittent fasting routine.
The science of intermittent fasting is fairly new and there isn't a lot of information available on the subject. Health and fitness experts believe this way of eating is going to become the norm. Whether it has been for the purpose of losing weight or getting ripped, caloric intake is something a lot of people have been dealing with for most of their adult lives without much success.
•How does this type of fasting work?
It is not considered a diet, it's considered to be a healthy lifestyle alternative. By following a pattern of eating at assigned times of the day and then fasting for a set amount of hours your body will use the previous days caloric intake during the fasting period. The fasting process also allows the body to cleanse the cells of accumulated toxins and waste products. This process will keep you full of energy, strong and encourage weight loss at the same time. It is even been known to help keep the skin healthy and clear of acne.
Not only are the hours you spend fasting important to your success but the type of fast as well. There are two types of fasting, water only or water, juice, coffee and tea. Water only is better because your body will concentrate on healing not digesting while still burning calories.
Your food intake should consist of several smaller meals during the day. Breakfast is the only traditional meal eaten. By eating smaller healthier meals throughout the day and not eating after 6 pm you will activate your metabolism into burning calories at a higher rate.
•Is this program safe?
Although intermittent fasting is a little controversial and unconventional right now, the more people who try the program and see its benefits the more positive light will be shed on it. Getting started is the hardest part of this diet regimen but once your body gets used to the routine and you start losing weight and feeling better you'll see how safe it is.
On this type of eating regime you can lose weight and be healthier without working out, without measuring or weighing food, without counting calories, carbs or knowing which fat is good and which is bad. Some say that by following this program you can eat anything you want, within reason. You know you can't eat a whole box of chocolates a tub of ice cream and a couple of fast food meals in one day or even in one week. What you can do is eat many more of the foods you like that are traditionally not suitable to dieters.
Start slow and work your way into a regime of intermittent fasting. It will take time to get used to it. Try fasting just 1 day a week and then maybe two. Eat less quantities of food while eating more often. Before you know it your body will be reaping the benefits.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only. The information in this article is not a substitute for specific medical advice. It is recommended you seek a physician for medical advice.
