Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent Fasting is an eating pattern that cycles between periods of fasting and eating.

It doesn't necessary dictate the type of foods you should eat, but rather when to eat.

Fasting is something I have done for a few years now, and I find that it does help with many aspects of my physical health.

There are many health studies that are showing the health benefits of fasting, here are just some of the benefits that the studies have shown fasting can help with.

Improve blood sugar levels.

Studies have found that fasting may improve blood sugar control, which would be especially useful for those at risk of diabetes.

One study showed in a group of 10 peopl with type 2 diabetes short-term intermittent fasting significantly decreased blood sugar levels.

Please note some studies have found that this result is different between men and women.

Helps with inflammation.

Studies have found that fasting can help with decreasing the levels of inflammation in the body and helping to promote better health.

In one study it was discovered when people fasted for 12 hours a day for one month there was a significant decrease in levels of inflammatory markers in an adult.

Helps with Heart health, through Blood Pressure and Cholesterol levels.

Research is showing that fasting can help to improve heart health.

With one study showing that eight weeks of alternate-day fasting reduced levels of “bad” LDL cholesterol and blood triglyceride by 25% and 32% 

In another study of 110 obese adults that fasting for three weeks under medical supervision significantly decreased blood pressure.

Boosts brain Function.

While a lot of these studies are mainly animal studies, they are showing that fasting does have incredible effects on brain health.

Studies in mice have shown that intermittent fasting helps with brain function and structure.  Increase generation of nerve cells enhancing cognitive function.  Relieves inflammation which could aid in preventing neurodegenerative disorders, and protect against conditions such as Alzheimer's.

Boosts Metabolism.

Many of these studies are still underway but early research is showing that short term fasting may increase function of the metabolism and enhance weight loss while preserving muscle tone.

These are just a few of the many health benefits that studies have found.  There are a few different versions of intermittent fasting, and if you are interested please do your own research to determine which version best suits you and your lifestyle.

I am choosing to fast for 16 hours per day, which means I have a 6 hour eating window which will be 10am to 6pm.  With fasting from 6pm to 10am.

I have chosen this method as I believe this one is the version that fits in with my lifestyle, and I will be able to maintain for an extended period of time.

I'll have updates throughout the weeks please follow along on the Facebook page for posts of what I discover on my intermittent fasting journey.