Intermittent fasting is one of the most popular health trends, for good reason. Intermittent fasting has many benefits, including weight-loss, improved energy, clarity, focus, and overall health. For its powerful effects on both the body and brain, intermittent fasting is a great option for individuals who want to upgrade their lives. One great thing about intermittent fasting as a diet is that it does not specify what foods you can and cannot eat. The only real rule with intermittent fasting is the times in which you eat. This is why it is usually called an “eating pattern” instead of a diet.
Fasting Techniques
One of the most popular methods of intermittent fasting is the 16:8 method. This means that you fast for a 16 hour window, before eating all of your daily meals during an 8 hour window. This may sound like a long time to not eat, but it basically only requires you to skip breakfast. Sleeping time counts as fasting time too! When you fast, your body makes adjustments that allow weight loss to become easier. One of these adjustments is with your body’s hormone levels, making the body more able to access stored fat to use as an energy source. Fasting is also known to help regulate insulin levels and promote cellular repair.
Fasting is Natural for our Bodies
One of the reasons fasting has so many health benefits is because it actually is the more natural way for humans to eat. Our hunter-gathering ancestors were accustomed to going long periods of time without eating, and our bodies have never really fully adjusted to eating 3-4 meals a day. Many people who fast report experiencing higher energy levels and increased cognitive abilities. There are studies that suggest that fasting can lead to new cell growth in the brain. Intermittent fasting may not be right for everyone, but there are many benefits available if it is the right fit for you.
Fitness Kitchen LA is committed to bringing healthy dieting foods, practices, and techniques to your front door. If you are interested in weight loss, check out one of our many meal plans targeted towards shedding the pounds such as keto, low-card, and paleo.