Welcome to Intermittent Fasting 101! Class in session! 🤓 Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and periods of fasting. Unlike traditional diets that focus on WHAT foods to eat or avoid, intermittent fasting revolves around WHEN to eat. It doesn’t prescribe specific foods but rather provides a framework for structuring your meals throughout the day. Intermittent Fasting has gained popularity not only for its weight loss benefits but also for its impact on various aspects of health. By incorporating periods of fasting into your routine, you give your body a break from constant digestion, which can lead to physiological changes with positive outcomes for your overall well-being.
Intermittent fasting is an effective tool for shedding excess fat. By restricting the window of time in which you eat, you naturally consume fewer calories, which can lead to weight loss over time. Research suggests that intermittent fasting may improve insulin sensitivity, reduce inflammation, and promote cellular repair processes. These effects can contribute to a lower risk of chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and certain types of cancer.
While there are several different approaches to intermittent fasting, one of the most popular is the 16/8 method, also known as the time-restricted eating window. With this method, you fast for 16 hours each day and limit your eating window to 8 hours. You might choose to eat your first meal at noon and finish your last meal by 8 p.m. This allows your body to enter a fasting state overnight and break the fast with your first meal of the day. Personally, I swear by this method and it is what I recommend to most of my clients.
As you embark on your intermittent fasting journey, it’s essential to listen to your body and make adjustments as needed. While intermittent fasting can offer numerous health benefits, it’s not suitable for everyone, and some individuals may experience negative side effects, especially when starting out. If you feel lightheaded, excessively hungry, or experience any other concerning symptoms, consider modifying your fasting schedule or consulting with a healthcare professional. Additionally, staying hydrated and nourished during your eating window is crucial for maintaining your overall health and well-being.
Intermittent fasting is a flexible and powerful tool for improving your health and reaching your wellness goals. By incorporating fasting periods into your routine, experimenting with different fasting windows, and working with a certified health coach- you can discover what works best for your body and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to lose weight, improve metabolic health, or simply feel more energized, intermittent fasting offers a promising approach to get you there.
Intermittent fasting is a key component to my 6-week health and fitness program. Hey, that’s why it’s called the FASTer Way to Fat Loss! I would love to help you reach your wellness and fat loss goals by harnessing the power of intermittent fasting, macro tracking, and carb cycling. Click the link below to reserve your spot!
https://www.lorenmattingly.com/the-faster-way
If you’ve tried intermittent fasting before, what’s your favorite meal to break your fast with?! Let me know in the comments below!
Eggs and bacon or overnight oats are my favs.