8 Reasons to Try Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting is a phrase that is thrown around a lot these days. It is replacing diets as a way to reset your health, thanks to its many benefits.
But what is intermittent fasting? An intermittent fast is a type of eating pattern. You do not eat for a period of time during the week or a day.
Are you interested in learning more? Read on for eight benefits of an intermittent fast.
1. Influences Hormones, Cells, and Genes
An intermittent fast can act as a reset for your body. Cells trigger cellular repair processes to remove dysfunctional protein build-ups. Hormone levels can also rebalance and genes change, which increases protection against diseases.
2. Intermittent Fast for Weight Loss
Human growth hormone (HGH) increases with intermittent fasting. HGH helps facilitate benefits such as fat burning.
The changes to hormones also increase your metabolic rate short term. Plus, an intermittent fast for weight loss means consuming fewer calories, which helps.
3. Manages Diabetes Type 2 Risk
Type 2 diabetes is increasing in adults and children. Insulin levels drop significantly when on an intermittent fast. Lower blood sugar levels and a reduction in insulin resistance reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.
4. Reduces Inflammation
Oxidative stress and inflammation weaken the body's defenses against diseases. Intermittent fasting has been found to improve the body's resistance and lower inflammation. Reduce the aging process and control harmful toxins with fasting.
5. Heart Health
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the US. An intermittent fast helps lower cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and other inflammatory triggers. Controlling these factors helps reduce heart disease risk.
6. Prevent Cancer
Uncontrollable cell growth causes cancer. An intermittent fast controls the body's metabolism, which could help protect against cancer.
Some studies have found intermittent fasting can reduce cancer risk. However, more studies need to be done.
7. Brain Benefits
The mind and body are interconnected. So, any physical health benefits of an intermittent fast also impact the brain.
There are also studies on how fasting can help reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety. Some studies suggest an intermittent fast can protect against stroke-related brain damage.
8. Live Longer!
If you care for your body, you are healthy. And if you are healthy, you are adding quality years to your life. Fasting will make you more mindful of what you consume, too, so it has benefits all-round for your health.
How to Intermittent Fast
How to intermittent fast is down to you. A popular periodic fasting schedule is 16/8. You fast for sixteen hours and eat for eight.
However, there are many different methods, such as alternative day fasting, 22/2, of 5:2. 5:2 is when you eat for five days and fast with only liquids for two.
Always follow guidance to safely intermittent fast. It is not just for weight loss; it has many other benefits. Consider talking to a nutritionist or your physician for advice on the best method for you.
Did you like this article? Check out our other articles to help your mind, body, and soul!
