Is Intermittent Fasting Right for You?

Want to improve your digestion, increase your energy, and reap big health benefits without having to track calories or eat certain foods? Say hello to intermittent fasting.

While there is an incredible amount of information out there on what to eat and how to diet for optimal health, sometimes the best thing you can do for your health is skip food altogether! 

What is intermittent fasting?

Intermittent fasting is a time-bound fast where you abstain from eating during a certain window of time. For example, many people who practice intermittent fasting will enjoy dinner at night, then not eat again until lunch the next day (skipping breakfast). Let’s say you eat dinner at 7 pm and lunch at 12 pm the following day. That would be a 17 hour fast. 

What are the benefits of intermittent fasting?

Intermittent fasting, also sometimes called “time restricted eating,” may help regulate hormones, including hormones involved in fat storage, which is why many people find some form of intermittent fasting to help with weight loss or weight management. People who fast on a regular basis are also more likely to live longer, according to one study. If you struggle with digestive issues, fasting for a short period of time like 15-18 hours can also help give your digestive system a rest, allowing for better absorption of nutrients and less gas/bloating associated with food.

To obtain the benefits of intermittent fasting, you don’t need to do it every day. While that may work well for some people, others find that doing a 24-36 hour fast once per week is easier to plan into their schedule. Developing a regular fasting cadence can look many ways depending on your lifestyle.

Is intermittent fasting right for everyone?

As is true with any health protocol, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. While intermittent fasting can offer incredible benefits for some, it’s not the right choice for others. People who suffer from hypoglycemia and diabetics should avoid fasting unless their glucose and insulin levels have been normalized. It’s also not wise for pregnant or breastfeeding women to fast, as going for long periods without food can have negative effects on the baby and on milk supply. Finally, if you take certain medications or have other health conditions, it’s a good idea to chat with your healthcare provider before adding fasting to your routine.

For those who don’t fall into those categories, intermittent fasting can be a wonderful way to support optimal health.