PROS AND CONS OF INTERMITTENT FASTING

Intermittent fasting is a natural eating pattern that’s inspired by ancient human practices. For our ancestors, food was much more scarce and fasting was a way of life out of necessity, rather than choice. Though in recent years it has gained popularity for its potential health benefits.

The approach involves alternating between eating and fasting periods, with various methods applied to the practice. Intermittent fasting naturally reduces calorie intake, leading to effective weight management without the need for strict diets or counting calories. In addition to optimising weight, intermittent fasting offers a wide range of advantages for our overall health and wellbeing including:

• Improved Insulin Resistance: Studies have shown that intermittent fasting can lower ourinsulin resistance, which reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes – promoting better blood sugar control.
• Enhanced Heart Health: Adopting intermittent fasting may lead to improvements in ourheart health by lowering “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides.
• Brain Health: Fasting stimulates the production of the brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), promoting the growth of new nerve cells and potentially protecting us against neurodegenerative diseases.

Some of the side effects of intermittent fasting usually include hunger and if not managed properly, it can cause fatigue or irritability during fasting periods, especially during the initial adjustment phase. It also may lead to lower energy levels, potentially impacting physical activity levels, which makes it crucial to engage in suitable exercise during fasting periods.For some, there may be a tendency to overeat during the feeding window, which could affect the overall weight management goals.

To start intermittent fasting, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional, they help you choose a suitable method. Kamalaya’s wellness experts recommend that you start with shorter fasting periods and gradually extend them as your body adapts. Staying hydrated during fasting is crucial, so drink plenty of water and herbal teas to manage hunger. During eating windows, focus on nutrient-dense foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins and listen to your body’s cues and adjust your fasting schedule if needed. Planning meals ahead can help you make healthier choices and avoid impulsive eating, remember to be flexible with fasting to accommodate special occasions or social events.

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