Intermittent Fasting Basics & Benefits
Posted: June 22, 2020 | By: Rocio Ramos
Over the years, intermittent fasting has become a popular way of eating. For many, it isn’t a diet, because it doesn’t restrict foods, but instead restricts eating periods. And for those who have been able to tap into this lifestyle, there are many benefits to go with it.
What is Intermittent Fasting
As the name suggests, intermittent fasting involves alternating periods of fasting and eating. During the fasting period, you’re allowed to have water, coffee, and tea without the addition of sugar or other calorie additives – limiting calorie intake during the fast is essential.
The two most popular fasting methods are daily 16-hour fasts or 24-hour fasts once or twice a week. Many believe these types of eating patterns are a more common and natural way of eating versus a modern 3 to 5 meals a day routine. Thousands of years ago, when food was not always readily available, humans were able to go extended periods of time without a meal.
Health impacts and benefits
While many individuals use intermittent fasting to maintain healthy weight, there are many changes that occur in the body when fasting. According to Intermittent Fasting 101 – The Ultimate Beginner’s Guide, some benefits of fasting include:
- Improving insulin sensitivity which helps release fat stores
- Initiates cellular repair processes
- Enhances human growth hormone levels
- Changes gene functions related to longevity
- Changes hormones that facilitate weight loss
Calorie Restriction not Nutrient Restriction
Youngevity Founder, Dr. Wallach, has been a longtime advocate of fasting. Understanding the benefits of fasting, Dr. Wallach often promotes the importance of restricting calories to optimize cells in the body. By providing your body with nutrient-dense foods (including the 90 essential nutrients) during eating periods, you’re able to give the body what it needs to thrive.
Additionally, Youngevity offers a nutrient-dense, low-calorie nutritional program that helps support weight loss in a fasting manner. The Rev 90 Program focuses on lowering calorie consumption in the morning and on nutrient-dense foods the rest of the day. By following a specific meal plan and products that support a healthy metabolism, the REV 90 Program helps support weight loss.
Before starting a fast…
Intermittent fasting has become a simple way for individuals to follow a healthy eating pattern. For many, skipping breakfast may not be that big of a deal. However, before fasting or trying any new diet, it’s always recommended that you consult with your healthcare professional. Make sure your body is ready to undergo a period of not eating and you follow a healthy diet.
To learn more about programs that support a healthy lifestyle, visit ygybetterhealth.com.
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