One of the widespread health trends of 2020 is intermittent fasting. It is because it improves overall health, helps lose weight, and leads to a better lifestyle. Even studies have demonstrated its powerful effect on the body and brain. In this beginner’s guide, you will read about the intermittent fasting method and benefits. Let’s know what exactly intermittent fasting or IF is all about.
Intermittent Fasting Methods
It’s an eating pattern that demands 16 hours of fasting twice a week. It’s one of the most common practices in Hinduism, Judaism, Islam, and Buddhism. This periodic fasting is natural than the one we possess today. There are three methods of performing intermittent fasting, which is mentioned below-
16-8 Method
It’s also known as lean gains protocol. You need to skip breakfast and limit your eating to eight hours. For example, you need to have your meal between 1-9 pm and the remaining hours go to fasting.
5:2 Diet
In this method, you need to eat normally for 5 days and limit calorie intake on non-successive days per week. For example, Tuesday and Thursday.
Eat-Stop-Eat
In this method, you need to fast for the entire day at least once a week. On the other day, you can eat regularly.
But remember, you need to reduce the amount of calorie intake if you wish to lose weight. Most people go for 16 -8 hours of fasting as it is simple, easy to follow, and sustainable.
Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting
Anti-Aging
Studies show those who do intermittent fasting live 83% longer compared to those who don’t. This shows lifespan can be extended via healthy fasting.
Reduce Insulin Resistance
It reduces insulin resistance to 31% as well as lower blood sugar levels to 6%. People with type 2 diabetes need to do fasting more often.
Brain Health
Fasting increases BDNF hormones in your brain which promotes new neuron growth and protects from Alzheimer’s disease.
Weight Loss
If you don’t like hitting the gym or going jogging, you can try intermittent fasting and lose belly fat.
If you are searching for the quickest way to lead a better and healthier lifestyle, intermittent fasting is all you need. Most importantly, it has the power to increase the longevity of your life.