What You Need to Know About Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting seems to be quite trendy these days. But there are cons to it as well as pros. Especially if you are trying to lose weight. Let’s delve into both…
Cons
For most people fasting is a terrible weight loss strategy
If you already have bad behaviours and destructive habits around food, those will only get amplified.
I would never recommend that someone who doesn’t eat much all day would further restrict their eating during the day. The binging and cravings in the evening will be even worse.
It’s hard to meet your nutrient targets
Ever tried to eat 100g of protein in one sitting? Even if you were to digest it all, it probably would cause some gut issues, or at least a bloated feeling.
My protein goal per day is nearly 230g. Eating that in 2 meals is not gonna be comfortable. Fasting the early part of the day also means I will be stuffed right before bed and have less optimal sleep.
Most often you end up undereating protein, and also other nutrients. And because of the cravings you often make the choice to eat something not so nutrient rich, because you are craving the tasty foods.
Can throw off your hormone levels.
The ”increased focus” you experience during a fast is mostly just a result of elevated cortisol levels. Multiple studies show how fasting also lowers testosterone levels, not vice versa. Especially frequent and longer fasting.
Pros
You get more things done and save time.
For busy people, the schedule of not eating breakfast can be easier, but again the rest of the day should be planned out so that you still reach your macro and micronutrient requirements. Less meals also means less meal prep.
It builds some discipline.
If you purposefully decide to fast 16 or maybe even 24 hours, it can be a challenge that makes you grow and become more disciplined.
It can make you more spiritual.
You will experience a different state when you fast, especially for longer periods. And you learn that life is not all about eating. I have fasted for as long as 72 hours and it does become a bit spiritual.
Remember to consult a doctor if you plan to try fasting.