Intermittent Fasting
Since starting my personal training career, intermittent fasting has been the single most successful protocol that my clients and myself have been following.
You can access the research and studies at the bottom of this page. I am citing and linking to those scientific studies for those of you who might be skeptical, or for those who want to have more of an in-depth understanding of this diet modality.
Some benefits
Improved insulin sensitivity
Lower blood pressure
Reduced oxidative stress
Improved brain health
Increased autophagy
Improved immune system
Sustainable fat loss
Intermittent fasting is a popular diet trend that involves cycling between periods of eating and periods of abstaining from food. While there are many different approaches to intermittent fasting, a common method is to eat during a certain window of time each day, and then fast or significantly reduce calorie intake for the remainder of the day.
Proponents of intermittent fasting claim that it offers a range of health benefits, including weight loss, improved insulin sensitivity, and increased longevity. While there is some scientific evidence to support these claims, it is worth noting that more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of intermittent fasting.
One potential benefit of intermittent fasting is weight loss. By restricting calorie intake for part of the day or week, it may be easier to achieve a calorie deficit and lose weight. In addition, intermittent fasting has been shown to increase the body's ability to burn fat, which may also contribute to weight loss.
Intermittent fasting may also have a positive effect on insulin sensitivity, which is a measure of how well the body is able to use insulin to regulate blood sugar levels. Improved insulin sensitivity can help to prevent the development of type 2 diabetes and other conditions related to insulin resistance.
Some studies have also suggested that intermittent fasting may increase lifespan and reduce the risk of age-related diseases such as heart disease and cancer. However, it is important to note that these studies have primarily been conducted in animals, and more research is needed to determine the effects of intermittent fasting on human lifespan.
It is worth noting that intermittent fasting may not be suitable for everyone, and it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new diet or exercise program. Additionally, it is important to ensure that adequate nutrients are obtained during periods of eating, as prolonged calorie restriction may lead to nutrient deficiencies.
In conclusion, intermittent fasting is a diet trend that involves cycling between periods of eating and abstaining from food. While there is some scientific evidence to support the potential benefits of intermittent fasting, more research is needed to fully understand the long-term effects of this approach. As with any diet or exercise program, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider and ensure that adequate nutrients are obtained.
Here are a few videos that may help you understand intermittent fasting better.
Check out this infographics for a summary of intermittent fasting.
Educational Videos
Evidence based studies
Effects of intermittent fasting on health, aging, and disease. de Cabo R, Mattonson MP. New England Journal of Medicine, December 2019.
Intermittent fasting interventions for treatment of overweight and obesity in adults: a systematic review and meta-analysis. JBI Database of Systematic Reviews and Implementation Reports, February 2018.
Metabolic Effects of Intermittent Fasting. Annual Review of Nutrition, August 2017.
Early Time-Restricted Feeding Improves Insulin Sensitivity, Blood Pressure, and Oxidative Stress Even without Weight Loss in Men with Prediabetes. Cell Metabolism, May 2018.