Fasting Protocols Date Back to Ancient Times

Fasting has been practiced for thousands of years with many different religious groups and global cultures. Today, intermittent fasting is putting a new twist on the ancient practice of managing one's daily dietary intake. Fasting offers many advantages, such as reducing inflammation and activating cellular cleansing by stimulating autophagy. People have reported a reversal of type 2 diabetes, improved mental functions and improved blood cholesterol readings. People often claim that intermittent fasting makes them feel lighter, brighter, sharper and happier without having to count calories and go to the gym every day.

• Alternate Day Fast - One of the most extreme methods of fasting, periodic fasts can last for several days. Dietary intake is limited calorie-free or low-calorie fluids to force the body into full fasting mode instead of alternating between fasting and feeding.
• Fast-Mimicking Diet - The Fast-Mimicking Diet created at the USC Longevity Institute involves consuming small amounts of food while still reaping the benefits of fasting based on the selection of foods consumed.
• Extended Fasting - An extended fast offers several advantages for today's dieter. For example, a day of abstinence from food can provide a more powerful weight loss benefit and scheduling makes it easier to avoid overeating on Day 2.
• Just Say No Fasts - It is a myth that people need to eat every few hours or they will hit the wall. The human body is equipped to handle long periods of famine. So, skip a meal anytime you can and do a short fast.

Simply eat nutritious whole foods, get a good night's sleep, drink plenty of water and manage food intake intelligently. The benefits of fasting are similar to those of a low-calorie menu plan but dieting can lead to a vicious cycle of losing weight only to gain it back. Conversely, some studies suggest that due to specific benefits that occur during the fasting window, intermittent fasting has a unique advantage. The ideal length of fasting and feasting periods vary based on how an individual's body responds. Some people fast for 12-18 hours each day while others prefer extended fasts for 24 hours or more. Contact the MRC nearest you for help with a personalized fasting diet with a healthy meal plan.

*NOTE: Due to a difference in hormonal makeup, women have special considerations when fasting. Intermittent fasting is not a good idea for women under 18 years of age, those with a lean body profile, or those with medical conditions, such as hypothyroidism or a history of eating disorders. Ask your physician about an appropriate fasting protocol for you.