Fasting Is Not a New Concept

---

Our early ancestors had to go without food for long periods of time, simply because food wasn't readily available. Today, there are plenty of intermittent fasting schedules to choose from.

For most people, eating one meal a day is not a problem. However, intermittent fasting is not for everyone. It might be suitable for weight management or managing certain health conditions, but it's not without risks.

Looking back through history, breakfast was not a common meal for most people. Early humans typically ate one substantial meal each day, supplemented with nuts and fruits as snacks. Eating when hungry was an intuitive approach to mealtime.

Fasting is actually part of our genetic makeup. Early humans had to adapt to periods of no food availability, surviving on involuntary fasts for days or even weeks. So, it's not surprising that our bodies are well-equipped for fasting.

Select the Feeding Zone That’s Right for You

While there are no strict rules on what you can eat during unrestricted eating periods, stay consistent with your fasting and feeding window to maximize results. and maintain control over your eating habits. Discussed below are some of the responsible fasting techniques used today, including:

ALTERNATE DAY FASTING: Alternating between days of regular eating and days of significant calorie restriction, allows this fasting approach to help improve metabolism, boost heart health, reduce chronic inflammation, and promote cell repair. To practice alternate-day fasting, you simply alternate between days of no food restriction and days that consist of one meal. However, it's important to note that fasting every other day can be challenging for some people, so there may be a more suitable fasting period.

WHOLE DAY FASTING: The simplest method for whole day fasting is just that – don’t eat for at least twenty-four hours. But, your brain can slow your metabolism naturally in response to perceived starvation. So, the key is to find which method strikes the best balance for meeting your long-term health goals. But, regardless of the scheduled fasting and eating periods, be sure to break your fasts by eating healthy foods.

INTERMITTENT FASTING: The circadian rhythm approach to intermittent fasting limits food consumption to an eight-hour (16:8) to ten-hour (14:10) daytime period. During the fasting period, your body undergoes autophagy, a process that eliminates old or damaged cells to reduce inflammation. To break your fast, opt for a protein-packed salad, eggs with avocado, wholesome veggies, or a homemade protein shake.

The three-prong Golden Rule for Fasting is no calories, no nutrients, and no food consumed while you’re in a fasting zone. When transitioning back to a regular diet, focus on incorporating protein-rich foods to avoid overindulgence and maintain control over your eating habits.

Responsible Fasting Can Tap Stored Energy

Responsible fasting is a popular dietary method among people who need help managing their appetite, weight, and overall health. However, it's not suitable for everyone and not recommended for individuals under 18 years of age. During the feeding window of intermittent fasting, it's crucial to consume enough calories and nutrients to fuel your body and prevent the loss of fat-burning muscle. It's also important to eat nutrient-dense foods and avoid drastic calorie restrictions.

Although fasting has its benefits, it's important to note that the effects may not outweigh simply reducing overall calorie intake. However, for some individuals, restricting the time they eat may make it easier to consume fewer calories. Responsible fasting allows your body to tap into its stored energy (fat deposits) while preserving fat-burning muscle mass, especially when your fasting method is combined with strength training and healthy exercise habits.

Whether you’re interested in jump starting your journey using the latest compounded weight loss medication or would like to implement a responsible fasting method to shed pounds, Metabolic Research Center has over three decades of experiencing in helping clients meet their goal for healthy living.