Active lifestyle and healthy diet are necessary to stay healthy, but along with this it is also important at what time you eat food. That is why many people are choosing Intermittent Fasting. In this, you have to eat food only within a limited time and the rest of the time you have to fast. Intermittent fasting is becoming quite popular these days for weight loss and better health, but is it really beneficial for health (Benefits of Intermittent Fasting)? You should take this decision only after thinking carefully about its advantages and disadvantages (Harms of Intermittent Fasting). 

What is intermittent fasting?

Intermittent fasting is a way of eating in which you follow a cycle of eating and fasting. In this, you do not eat anything for some time at regular intervals, while the rest of the time you eat normally. There are many ways of this type of fasting, such as the 16/8 method (fasting for 16 hours a day and eating for 8 hours), the 5-2 method (eating normally for 5 days a week and eating low-calorie food for 2 days) etc.

What can be the benefits of intermittent fasting? (Benefits of Intermittent Fasting)

• Helps in weight loss – Intermittent fasting reduces calorie intake, which can help in weight loss.
• Boost metabolism – Intermittent fasting can increase metabolism, which can speed up the process of fat burning.
• Improved insulin sensitivity – Intermittent fasting may help reduce insulin resistance, which may lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.
• Improved Heart Health – Intermittent fasting can lower bad cholesterol and control blood pressure, thereby improving heart health.
• Promotes Autophagy – Intermittent fasting can promote a process called autophagy, in which cells help keep the body healthy by breaking down damaged proteins and cells.
• Improves brain health – Intermittent fasting can improve brain health and reduce the risk of neurodegenerative diseases.

What can be the disadvantages of intermittent fasting? (Disadvantages of Intermittent Fasting)

• Nutrient Deficiency – If you do not follow a proper diet while fasting, you may lack some essential nutrients.
• Low energy levels: Intermittent fasting can initially lead to low energy levels and make you feel tired .
• Digestive problems – Some people may experience constipation, acidity or other digestive problems due to intermittent fasting.
• Mood swings – Intermittent fasting can cause mood swings and irritability.
• Not suitable for some people – Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, teenagers, the elderly and people with certain medical conditions should not do intermittent fasting.

So is it right to do intermittent fasting or not?

Intermittent fasting has many potential benefits, but it is not right for everyone (Who Should Avoid Intermittent Fasting). If you are thinking of starting intermittent fasting, be sure to consult your doctor. Also, make sure you are eating the right diet and drinking plenty of water while fasting.