Weight Loss
Fasting has gained a significant amount of attention in the health and wellness space over the years. And for good reason. However, as with most things on the internet these days, there is an abundance of information that can overwhelm readers. There are plenty of misconceptions and myths out there that negatively impact the view of fasting.
However, there are many benefits to fasting and changing your diet strategies. This blog seeks to clarify what you should know and what is simply not true. For instance, uncovering the many advantages of induced autophagy. Let’s start with the big myths.
Myths About Fasting
It’s easy to understand how these popular myths could be concepts for many. But in reality, these misunderstandings need more context than their simple statements.
Myth 1: Fasting Means Starvation
Fasting is not starvation; rather, it is controlled eating during an intentional time period to better the function of digestion and our internal organs. Starvation implies that there is a lack of food or intentional undereating that leads to malnutrition.
Fasting done the right way prioritizes eating during an intentional time period with an emphasis on getting the right amount of nutrients to fuel our body. Fasting is often combined with weight loss goals, which can lead to the misconception of starvation. Or anyone who crash diets often overdoes the fasting method rather than following the timed schedule.
Myth 2: Fasting Slows Down Metabolism
Some people have thought that skipping meals or fasting can slow down metabolism. But the idea is not to skip meals. This concept has come from the misunderstanding of what fasting really is. Studies have actually proven that short-term fasting can boost metabolism because our body kicks into fat-burning mode.
Prolonged periods of time where meals are skipped can lead to slowed metabolism because our body wants to hang out with the little fat or stored energy that we have. This is why nutritionists often encourage smaller meals consistently throughout the day.
Myth 3: Fasting Is About Calorie Deficit
Fasting is not necessarily about a calorie deficit. For some, fasting includes eating more calories. Fasting is not always linked to weight loss goals, whereas the focus is more on cellular repair and reduced inflammation.
Some people who want to burn fat and increase muscle will find nutritionists recommend increasing their calorie intake with a focus on healthy proteins. Because fasting is often associated with weight loss, it’s easy to confuse the process with crash diets, starvation, and other unhealthy approaches.
Facts About Fasting You Should Know
Now that we have a few myths out of the way let’s focus on what information is truthful.
Fact 1: Intermittent Fasting Has Scientific Backing
Part of the reason why intermittent fasting has been a large part of the health conversation is because of recent studies that support the benefits of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting focuses on the cycle and periods of eating and abstaining from food. This has been a scientifically backed approach for weightlessness, supporting your metabolism, improving insulin sensitivity, and reducing inflammation.
Fact 2: Autophagy and Cellular Repair
Fasting does trigger autophagy, which is the process of cellular repair. Autophagy removes damaged cells that can lead to disease and illness. Often, these diseases are more serious, such as cancer or heart disease. This is a direct result of the above benefits, specifically reducing inflammation throughout the body.
Fact 3: Individual Genetic Makeup Must Be Considered
Despite evidence that has supported intermittent fasting is a great process for many, it’s not a one-size-fits-all. Consulting with a doctor or healthcare specialist is necessary because our health history must be a factor. When done incorrectly, our body can become malnourished due to a lack of specific vitamins and minerals.
What You Need to Know
- Balanced nutrition is one of the most fundamental concepts when it comes to exploring intermittent fasting. Without proper nutrition, not only do you not achieve your results, but you will not obtain the important health benefits. Keeping it simple and including all the food groups your healthcare recommends is essential.
- Hydration is a must. For anyone who loves dehydrating caffeine, increasing your water and electrolyte intake is even more critical. Our internal organs must be well-hydrated in order to perform their everyday function, such as cellular repair.
- Taking care of your body and being mindful of the reaction it is having during an intermittent fasting phase is important for proper adjustments. Initially, it is normal to feel different as your body adjusts to a new regimen. Maintaining contact with your doctor to ensure the effects are healthy and normal will prevent any health risks.
Your First Step
The good news is you have already taken the first step. That is finding out the right information. Taking a deeper dive and calling your preferred medical professional is the next step. They will be able to help evaluate your medical history to decide which if any, intermittent fasting path is right for you.
