Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between eating and fasting. It has become one of the most popular health and fitness trends amongst men and women worldwide. But what’s all the fuss about? We’re here to break down the benefits of intermittent fasting so you can decide whether or not to hop on the IF bandwagon.
Weight Loss
Weight loss is the most common reason why people do intermittent fasting. It makes you eat fewer meals, thus leading you to a decrease in caloric intake. The fewer the calories, the more weight lost. It will also change hormone levels, which facilitates weight loss. One thing you must remember is that the main reason you lose weight from intermittent fasting is the decrease in calories. This means that you must avoid binging and overeating during the eating periods because this will deter you from losing that weight.
Reduces the Insulin Battle
Intermittent fasting increases the body’s responsiveness to insulin, which helps you regulate your blood sugar. When your body cannot control your blood sugar, you have a higher chance of getting diabetes and heart failure, both linked to obesity. Studies have shown that fasting for the rest of the day after feasting for eight hours can lead to no signs of high levels of insulin or diabetes.
Decreases Cancer Risk
Fasting has been linked to beneficial effects on metabolism that can lead to a reduced risk of cancer. Regular eating triggers the body to produce new cells, which can speed up the growth of certain cancer cells that may already be in your body. Fasting will let your body slow this down and minimize the possibility of new cells becoming cancerous.
Rejuvenates Skin
One of the most common ways to help cure acne is through your diet. It is no wonder why intermittent fasting can help you get that glowing skin you desire. By fasting, you will give your body and skin a clean slate. By slowly introducing certain foods back into your body after fasting, you can note changes in your skin, figuring out what foods cause your skin to develop acne or inflammation.
Stimulates Brain Function
Intermittent fasting offers vast suggestions for brain health. Fasting can promote the growth of neurons, aid recovery after a stroke or another brain injury, and enhance memory performance. It can even decrease the risk of developing diseases such as Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. These are all linked to the reduction in oxidative stress, inflammation, and blood sugar.
Live a Longer Life
Intermittent fasting can delay the development of disorders that lead to a shorter life. This means that people who regularly fast can live a longer and healthier life. This may be in part due to the theory that fasting increases the body’s cellular defense against molecular damage. This stimulates the body to repair issues in the body, keeping your organs and cells performing efficiently.
Develops a Routine
By creating an eating routine of eating and then fasting for a certain number of hours, you’ll begin to understand your body a bit more and its hunger cycles. Developing a routine is beneficial to your body and you will soon notice great changes not only in your body, but also in your sleeping habits. Setting your body on a timer will improve your health overall and have your body working in all the right ways.
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