Here is the new buzz in the markets today ‘intermittent fasting.’ Defined as eating within a specific ‘window’ and fasting for 12 hours or 16 hours. It does have its share of health benefits, apart from just weight loss. There are different methods of fasting.
- 16/8 protocol – Eat all your calories within 8 to 12 hours then fast for 16 hours, can do everyday or a few times in the week
- 5:2 – You can eat normally five days a week; then for 2 days restrict calories between 500-600
- Fasting 24 hours once or twice a week
The benefits are tremendous –
- Boosts the good gut bacteria
- Helps with weight loss
- Increases energy
- Help you sleep better
- Promotes cell repair and detoxification
- Reduces insulin resistance
- Is anti-aging, promoting a longer lifespan
- Improves memory and brain function
- Makes cells resilient
- Lowers bad cholesterol
- Increases Human Growth Hormone HGH
While it is an effective method, it is important not to overdo it as well. Fasting has been used in the Indian tradition from a long time as a self cleansing method and for religious reasons; but depriving yourself of calories for long periods of time is not the answer to keeping it healthy as well. You need to strike a balance. My opinion is following a 12 hour protocol – eating an early dinner, and then a breakfast (after a 12 hour fast) would be the most sustainable way to follow this protocol.
