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Intermittent fasting is a trend that has been catching up on and off. There is a long-standing debate on its efficacy. While some people put forth that IF( short for intermittent fasting) has helped them shed the extra kilos, others say it has done more harm than good.
What is Intermittent fasting?
IF is basically, the act of devoiding your body of foods, for a certain period of time. You have to keep a long gap of 16-24 hours between your meals to achieve the desired fat loss. Coupled with exercise and a healthy diet, IF has shown positive results in many people.
For starters, Intermittent fasting is not a diet. It is a type of pattern that you follow. Most followers recommend a fast of 16 hours, and skipping breakfast. You eat one meal at lunch i.e. 1 pm and the next one at 8 pm. Then you fast until the next afternoon.
Benefits of IF
Benefits of IF include weight loss, gain in muscle mass and increased explosiveness. Followers vouch for IF because it helps them reduce their training time at the gym while consistently increasing their muscle and decreasing overall body fat.
How does IF lead to fat loss?
The human digestive system is accustomed to increase insulin levels when we are well fed. This bars the fat burning mechanism in our body. By introducing our bodies to a fasting state, fat loss occurs quickly when the insulin levels drop.
Shortcomings of IF
Though fasting is a good way to shed off those extra pounds, it does come with its own set of side effects. Many people are of the opinion that Intermittent fasting is an extreme way of dieting and is only meant for those people who are already in shape.
Other pitfalls include bloating, headaches, stress, mood swings( in newbies), occasional diarrhea, and a negative effect on womens hormones.
Is IF for me?
Well, that depends. Try recording your performance in IF for about two weeks before deciding to continue. Eat healthier meals and good portions that can help you sustain the fasting period.
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