6 Reasons You Should Try Intermittent Fasting
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day – unless you’re following intermittent fasting.
Intermittent fasting has gained popularity throughout pretty much every diet clan – especially the ketogenic diet community. Fasting may not sound attractive for snacking enthusiasts or fans of many small meals a day. Some fasting protocols are more extreme than others, but research suggests that it’s more sustainable and filling than you may think. If you’re opposed skipping out on meals – some research may make you think otherwise.
What is intermittent fasting?
Although there are several variations, the premise of them all is all the same: spend less time eating and more time not eating. For weight loss, research has shown that intermittent fasting can be a long-term, effective way of sustaining a healthy lifestyle. The typical fast lasts arounds 14-16 hours with an eating window of 8-10 hours. This version seems to be a fan favorite. There are other versions that have been slower to fame – like the ‘every-other-day’ fast and the ‘25/115’ fast. The ‘every-other-day’ fast is self-explanatory, while the ‘25/115’ consists of eating 25 percent of your calorie needs one day, and eating 115 of your calorie needs the next. Using either means, you significantly reduce the total amount of calories during the week.
Benefits of intermittent fasting
Many weight loss success stories have accredited intermittent fasting. However, research suggests that intermittent fasting can help you do more than lose weight. Here’s a sample of benefits you may experience while fasting:
- It’s easy. Little meals means little cooking. Its simple structure is easy to follow and is applicable to every diet preference. Intermittent fasting is also sustainable; The Atlantic reports that 80-90 people are able to stick with the plan long-term.
- Weight loss. Intermittent fasting has obvious benefits for weight loss, since you’re consuming significantly less calories in the long run. Besides reducing calories, this eating pattern works for weight loss because it boosts your metabolic rate, according to Healthline.
- Disease prevention. Intermittent fasting isn’t a cure for anything, but has showed promising results in prevention. By reducing blood sugar levels, intermittent fasting has protected people against type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. It has also been linked to preventing/delaying the onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and cancer.
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Brain function. Studies show that intermittent fasting can gradually improve cognitive function. This includes improved learning and memory and decreased oxidative stress. That’s why fasting has been growing in popularity as a treatment for the obesity epidemic.
- Prolonged lifespan. This research is fairly recent and still in progress – but so far, the results have are positive among several species, Business Insider reported. The fresh research on humans so far has also been successful. The results are most likely because of the dips in bad cholesterol and blood sugar levels.
- Increased endurance. Intermittent fasting shifts your body’s fuel source from carbohydrates to stored fats – so basically ketosis. The fuel preference reduced their respiratory exchange ratio, or “the ratio of CO2 produced to O2 consumed,” according to Medical News Today. In other words, intermittent fasting makes for more efficient exercise.
Should I try intermittent fasting?
This tactic works for many, but it may not be your best choice. When it comes to losing weight or building muscle, they key factor is building sustainable habits. At Thrive Fitness, we believe that a well-balanced diet is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle along with an active lifestyle. Any diet change should be made under a nutrition expert’s guidance. That’s why we have Holistic Health and Nutrition Coaches at your disposal. Contact Thrive Fitness Atlanta to talk about which diet suits your lifestyle today at info@thrivefitnessatlanta.com.
55+? Live Your Best Life with Thrive Fitness’ New Functional Aging Programs
A body in motion will age better than one on the couch, yet many within our baby boomer population grew up with little emphasis on the importance of active living, sports and exercise. As a result, we’ve seen an increase in arthritis, disease, premature aging and more.
New in 2018, Thrive Fitness announces our Functional Aging Programs designed for those 55 years and older, and customized to your body’s unique capabilities and needs.
There are countless studies that prove the important health benefits associated with exercise, and it becomes more important as we age. Here are some of the many benefits of exercise for Baby Boomers & Seniors:
- Improves Mobility
- Reduces Inflammation & the Side Effects from Arthritis
- Improves Circulation and Heart Health
- Improves Brain Health, Memory & Cognitive Function
- Improves Digestion
- Slows Aging
- Improves Mood & Confidence
- Boosts Immunity, Helping to Fight Disease
- Reduces Risk of Falls and Injury
- Enhances Social Interaction
- Boosts Energy & Libido
- Improves Sleep
Through certification by The Functional Aging Institute, Thrive Fitness has developed individualized exercise programs for Boomers & Seniors that include:
- Stretching and Flexibility Exercises
- Balance Techniques
- Low-Impact Aerobics
- Cardio Conditioning
- Bone Density Building
- Strength Training
- Mind/Body Connection
Our specialized, certified trainers provide individualized instruction to account for joint stability, respiratory or cardiac conditions, physical limitations and proper technique to avoid injury.
We invite you to take the first step towards improving your health, and trust us, you’ll love doing it!
Call Thrive Fitness Centers today to get a free, no obligation body diagnostic evaluation and personal training session at 404-431-2639.