Intermittent fasting - also known as periodic fasting - is hot. But whether it actually works, opinions are rather divided. In this blog we tell you what intermittent fasting is, how it works and what our vision is on it. Spoiler: it works, but only if you cooperate!
Intermittent fasting, what is it?
In Dutch we call intermittent fasting periodic fasting, and that actually says what it is. With intermittent fasting, you only eat for a certain period of time. For example, you can eat every day for an eight-hour period and fast the rest. There are many different intermittent fasting schedules. The most popular is the 16:8 method: you fast for 16 hours a day and eat in an eight-hour time period. For example, you eat your first meal at noon and your last at eight in the evening. Then you eat nothing for 16 hours. You can also choose to fast once or twice a week for a period of 24 consecutive hours. Drinking is allowed during the fasting period, provided you opt for coffee, tea, water and drinks without calories. For example, there are countless variations possible.
Intermittent fasting, what does it do?
Intermittent fasting is a popular weight loss method. Partly that is simply because you only eat for a short period of time and so there is a good chance that you will consume fewer calories, but there is more. By fasting it takes growth hormone increases, which promotes the loss of body fat and promotes the maintenance of muscle mass. Intermittent fasting also reduces insulin resistance, leading to better blood sugar levels. On Voluitlevenmetdiabetes.nl we read that during the fasting period your body starts to burn fat instead of glucose and that keeping blood sugar levels low reduces the need for insulin and restores insulin sensitivity over time. If you fast longer, your body will also produce noradrenaline, a stress hormone that works similar to adrenaline. After fasting for 24 hours, it raises your metabolism by about ten percent.
Intermittent fasting, hype or fact?
Some people think that intermittent fasting is a fad, but we firmly believe in the positive effects of intermittent fasting. In addition to the benefits we mentioned above, it also reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, which can have a positive effect on chronic diseases. It can also help if you want to lose weight, although there is of course a catch. As Rémon Koetje, Lifestyle coach and trainer at Happy Bodies in Alkmaar, told earlier in his blog is there no panacea that will make you lose weight. Intermittent fasting is not a panacea either. For example, if you follow the 16:8 method and stuff yourself with cream pie, frikandellen and chocolate milk in the eight hours that you are allowed to eat, then the chance that you will lose weight is quite small. If you make the right food choices during the time you eat, exercise well and get a good night's sleep, then intermittent fasting will certainly contribute to your weight loss.
Intermittent fasting, is it safe?
Intermittent fasting is safe for most people, but certainly not for everyone. Skipping meals may not be desirable if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. If you have kidney stones, diabetes or other medical problems or if you are unsure, always consult your doctor before starting intermittent fasting.
Knowing more?
Wondering if intermittent fasting is something for you or are you curious how you too get more energy by training twice for 35 minutes every ten days, under the guidance of your own personal lifestyle coach? Even if you have physical complaints? Then do the membership test and sign up for a free personal introductory meeting and tour of the club. Want to bet that you are immediately sold?
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