How does intermittent fasting work?
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that has become popular among people looking to lose weight.
Advertisement
Unlike diets and other weight loss programmes, it doesn’t restrict your food choices or intake. Instead, all that matters is when you eat.
While some people claim that intermittent fasting can be a safe and healthy way to shed excess weight, others dismiss it as ineffective and unsustainable. This article explains whether intermittent fasting works for weight loss.
What is intermittent fasting?
Intermittent fasting involves cycling between periods of eating and fasting. Most types of this dietary pattern focus on limiting your meals and snacks to a specific time window — typically between six and eight hours of the day.
For example, 16/8 intermittent fasting involves restricting food intake to just eight hours per day and abstaining from eating during the remaining 16 hours. Other types involve fasting for 24 hours once or twice per week or significantly cutting calorie intake a few days per week but eating normally during the others.
Although most people practice intermittent fasting to enhance weight loss, it has been associated with many other health benefits as well. Studies show that intermittent fasting may improve blood sugar levels, decrease cholesterol, and boost longevity
Does it work for weight loss?
Several studies show that intermittent fasting may boost weight loss via several mechanisms. First, restricting your meals and snacks to a strict time window may naturally decrease your calorie intake which can aid weight loss.
Intermittent fasting may also increase levels of norepinephrine, a hormone and neurotransmitter that can boost your metabolism to increase calorie burning throughout the day.
Other Trending Stories
Also, this eating pattern may reduce levels of insulin, a hormone involved in blood sugar management. Decreased levels can bump up fat burning to promote weight loss. Some research even shows that intermittent fasting can help your body retain muscle mass more effectively than calorie restriction which may increase its appeal.
Downsides
Most people can practice intermittent fasting safely as part of a healthy lifestyle. However, it may not be the best choice for everyone. Children, individuals with chronic illness, and women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should consult a healthcare professional before starting this dietary pattern to ensure that they are getting the nutrients they need.
People with diabetes should also exercise caution, as fasting can lead to dangerous drops in blood sugar levels and may interfere with certain medications.
While athletes and those who are physically active can safely practice intermittent fasting, it’s best to plan meals and fast days around intense workouts to optimise physical performance.
Although it may not work for everyone, intermittent fasting can be a safe and effective weight loss method.
Credit: healthline.com
