Intermittent fasting

Intermittent fasting (IF) is a commonly performed practice that’s been used over the centuries for religious, cultural and spiritual reasons. But what is it really and why is it recently gaining all the hype as a healthy dietary pattern?

Different IF protocols involve periods of abstinence from food. On the one hand, there are those that encourage time restricted eating patterns within the 24-hour period. So basically, food is consumed within 8 – 10 hour window (16/8 diet). Equally as effective are the alternate day fasting, with or without calorie restriction. Again, alternating between non-restricted days and fasted days (5:2 diet), with modified versions allowing for up to 40% of recommended daily intake on fasted days. Therefore, a matter of personal preference really..

Now, back to the main question, is it really worth it?

Well, recent research shows that IF increases ketosis, facilitates weight loss and supports metabolic flexibility, reduces inflammation and associated chronic conditions. Also, improves cardiovascular health, especially in combination with endurance exercise