This is an archived article and the information in the story may be outdated. Please check the time stamp on the story to see when it was updated last.
Intermittent fasting has become a popular diet trend over the last few years, as many people who have tried the regimen have reported great success in promoting weight loss. While this diet might not be the right choice for everyone, it works well when done right.
There are actually several ways in which intermittent fasting can be done incorrectly – and this can be detrimental to your overall health. If you’re considering trying out this diet, it’s important to get all of the facts first.
Here’s everything you need to know if you’re considering intermittent fasting:
Intermittent Fasting Is About When You Eat, Not What You Eat
One of the reasons why intermittent fasting is so popular is that this diet technically allows you to eat whatever you want. The idea behind the regimen is that you are only meant to eat during certain times, and there is no restriction as to what types of foods you can and can’t eat during meal times.
People who follow intermittent fasting will either only allow themselves to eat during an eight-hour time window during the day, with a 16-hour fast each day, or follow a pattern of alternate day fasting.
Intermittent Fasting Can Affect Your Body On A Cellular Level
According to Healthline, “When you fast, several things happen in your body on the cellular and molecular level. For example, your body adjusts hormone levels to make stored body fat more accessible. Your cells also initiate important repair processes and change the expression of genes.”
When done properly, fasting can help you gain muscle, improve insulin sensitivity and repair cells. Plus, intermittent fasting helps you lose weight by reducing calorie intake and releasing fat-burning hormones.
Intermittent Fasting May Even Protect You Against Disease
“Many things happen during intermittent fasting that can protect organs against chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, age-related neurodegenerative disorders, even inflammatory bowel disease and many cancers,” Johns Hopkins neuroscientist Mark Mattson, Ph.D., discovered.
Research has determined that intermittent fasting may improve memory, heart health, tissue health and protect against diabetes.
Intermittent Fasting Can Be Dangerous If Done Improperly
As with any diet, intermittent fasting can be harmful to your health if you don’t do it right. It is important to get enough calories each day, which your doctor or nutritionist can help you determine. If you are considering trying out intermittent fasting, you should consult a medical professional first to determine if this routine is right for your body - and figure out the best way to go about it.
It is also essential to make sure you are getting enough protein, fiber and complex carbohydrates when intermittent fasting. If you only eat during an eight-hour time window and mostly just have fats, starches and sugars, you can set yourself up for an unhealthy lifestyle.
