Intermittent fasting: A journalist's journey to healthier living
A science journalist decided to explore an increasingly popular approach to nutrition. It's not about special foods, but rather the absence of them. By switching to intermittent fasting, she set two goals for herself, aiming for more than just weight loss.
Among the myriad of diets recommended by experts and various gurus, intermittent fasting is a relatively new idea. However, what sets it apart from other eating methods is its simplicity. You just have to adhere to certain basic rules. Notable figures like Elon Musk and Jennifer Aniston practice this way of eating.
Intermittent fasting involves eating during a specific portion of the day and fasting for the remainder. This change in eating patterns impacts the metabolism by lowering blood glucose levels and increasing the production of ketones, thereby aiding in maintaining a healthy weight. The body produces ketones from fat tissue, intensifying fat burning.
Eexperimented with fasting
A journalist from Newsweek's Science section conducted an experiment on herself with intermittent fasting, setting two personal goals. She aimed to lose 22 pounds and reduce her blood glucose levels. She opted for one of the more demanding variants, the 16:8 method, meaning she ate only during an eight-hour timeframe each day. Other options include the 14:10, 18:6, and even 20:4 methods, where the first number indicates the fasting hours.
The journalist's designated eating window was from noon to 8:00 PM. During this time, she endeavoured to consume relatively healthy meals and avoid junk food. After 16 hours of fasting, her breakfast was hearty, featuring items like oatmeal and a sandwich with egg or cheese. For lunch, she would have soup, roasted vegetables, or a salad. Dinner was the most substantial meal. Possibly due to the prospect of 16 hours without eating, she indulged more, often finishing with something sweet, like caramels or chocolate.
Practiced intermittent fasting. Here are the results
Initially, the experience was challenging for the journalist. The eating window felt too short, she was woken by hunger in the night, and waiting for breakfast in the morning was tough. However, after the first week, things began to stabilize. She slept better, didn't suffer from hunger pangs, and found satisfaction in smaller portions.
It quickly became apparent that the goals the Newsweek journalist set for herself were achievable. Her blood glucose levels improved significantly. But there was more.
Ultimately, after two months, the journalist decided to stop intermittent fasting. Why? Although many people find their hunger reduced during fasting hours, she wasn't as fortunate and felt hungry throughout the morning and late evening. She stated that maintaining this eating routine became burdensome. Gradually, she moved away from it, but she asserts that the benefits experienced during those two months made the attempt worthwhile.
