What is intermittent fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an eating plan in which you alternate between fasting and eating on a regular timetable. With intermittent fasting, you only eat during a specific time rather than eating whenever you want around the clock. Research shows that it’s possible to lose weight and prevent or reverse certain diseases by fasting.[1]
Studies suggest intermittent fasting can be effective in weight loss as it increases insulin sensitivity. When you eat, your liver, muscles, and fat cells store glucose through insulin, a hormone released by your pancreas. Blood glucose levels decrease when the body is in a fasting state, reducing insulin production, which signals your body to begin burning carbohydrates.[2]
Intermittent fasting also works by boosting the length of time your body burns calories by prolonging the period of time between meals. An example of an intermittent fasting eating window is restricting your daily food intake to six to eight hours a day. You may, for instance, try 16/8 fasting, in which you eat only within eight hours and fast for the remaining sixteen hours of the day.[3]
There are many potential benefits to intermittent fasting, including improved weight loss and increased energy levels, but there can be just as many risks involved too. Children and teenagers under the age of 18, women who are pregnant or breastfeeding, people with diabetes or blood sugar issues, and those with eating disorders should avoid fasting.[4]
It’s always best to consult with a doctor before beginning any new diet or fitness regimen – whether it’s intermittent fasting or something else – to make sure it’s right for you.
Mosh connects you with Australian doctors across the country who can help you with weight loss. Our doctors will review your situation and, depending on what you need, provide medical weight loss treatments, meal replacement shakes, or coaching solutions to personalise your weight loss plan. Our health providers and dietitians will happily address questions like ‘How to intermittent fast for weight loss?’ and ‘How to lose stomach fat?’ with reliable, science-backed advice.
If you’re thinking about trying intermittent fasting, learning more about it first is a smart idea. Understanding the basics will help you decide if it’s right for you and give you the best chance for success.