Planning Intermittent Fasting? Pause, Check If It's Best For You

We have seen several fad diets come and go, but one diet that has stayed and remains a popular choice is intermittent fasting. This diet has gained significant attention in recent years, thanks to its potential benefits for our health. From weight loss to improved metabolic activity, intermittent fasting benefits us in many ways. However, it's important to know that not everyone should jump on the fasting bandwagon. Yes, it's true that intermittent fasting is indeed not the same for everyone. Some people need to exercise caution while following intermittent fasting.
Also Read: Intermittent Fasting May Stall Weight Loss After Some Time - Don't Make These 5 Diet Mistakes

What Is An Intermittent Diet Plan? Basics Of Intermittent Fasting

The best part about intermittent fasting is that it does not focus on slashing calories drastically. Instead, the diet is all about revamping meal timings. The diet plan demarcates specific periods of eating and fasting, allowing the body to switch between fed and fasted states. The fasting periods can vary in duration, including the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours and eating during an 8-hour window), and the 5:2 method (eating normally for five days and restricting calories for two non-consecutive days). Some people even give up food for a full day once or twice a week.

Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting - How It Helps You:

• Intermittent fasting is a great way to lose weight. By reducing the time available for eating, the body may tap into its fat stores for energy, which makes the body shed extra kilos.
• Fasting periods can enhance insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation. This helps people dealing with diabetes.
• Some studies suggest that intermittent fasting can lead to improvements in heart health markers, such as reducing cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
• Intermittent fasting might have positive effects on brain health by promoting a protein associated with learning, memory, and cognitive function.

Also Read: Intermittent Fasting: Good Or Bad For The Ones Skipping Breakfast?

Who Should Approach Intermittent Fasting Cautiously?

While intermittent fasting can be beneficial for many, certain individuals under certain circumstances should approach it with caution or avoid it altogether. Nutritionist Shikha Gupta explained that intermittent fasting is not a viable option. In the Instagram post, she wrote, "For individuals struggling with specific health concerns, it can be an incredible solution. However, it's crucial to tread carefully and consider the following factors:"

1. If You Constantly Struggle With Acidity:

"If you have a sensitive gut and constantly suffer from acidity, fasting for extended periods may not be ideal. It's important to strike a balance that works for you," said the nutritionist.

2. If You Have Cortisol Imbalance:

"Individuals with high or low cortisol levels must prioritize regular meals, especially within an hour of waking. Lengthy fasting intervals can trigger cortisol release as a protective mechanism, leading to muscle loss, reduced stress tolerance, and potential sleep disruptions," said nutritionist Shikha Gupta.

3. If You Have Thyroid Troubles:

While some individuals with thyroid issues may experience benefits from intermittent fasting, others may not. It depends on the person. The dietitian warned that stress-induced thyroid problems usually worsen with intermittent fasting. "Dysfunctional thyroid function needs the support of well-balanced meals containing carbs, protein, fats, and essential micronutrients at regular intervals, ideally every three hours," she added. Prolonged gaps between meals can hinder metabolism in these cases.

Intermittent fasting is undoubtedly beneficial for weight loss and overall wellness. You should know that there's no one-size-fits-all solution to dieting. Also, if you are grappling with specific health conditions, it is best to consult a medical professional before deciding to follow this diet.