Intermittent Fasting Diet: What is it?
Intermittent fasting is a dietary approach that divides the day into two periods, fasting for 16 hours and consuming meals within the remaining 8 hours, essentially comprising two meals – breakfast and dinner – within a 24-hour timeframe. Advocating for a healthy diet during the 8-hour window known as the 16:8 rule, intermittent fasting incorporates the 16-hour fasting period, which includes sleeping hours.
During the 8-hour interval between morning and evening meals, solid foods are avoided, and the consumption of calorie-free liquids such as water, plain soda, unsweetened coffee, or tea is recommended. Adequate fluid intake is crucial in intermittent fasting, alongside food restrictions. One of the significant benefits of adhering to the intermittent fasting diet plan is its potential to promote weight loss and reduce inflammation in the body.
Intermittent fasting allows for flexibility in choosing the type of food within the designated eating window, emphasizing the importance of opting for healthy choices. It is advised to avoid high-carbohydrate and sugar-laden, processed, and ready-made foods in this diet. Prior to embarking on intermittent fasting, undergoing a medical examination and conducting the diet under the supervision of a dietitian are advisable.
Research suggests that the intermittent fasting diet has health benefits, including weight loss, reduction of inflammation in the body, and alleviation of symptoms associated with chronic diseases.