6 Benefits Of Intermittent Fasting

Intermittent fasting is a trend that is spreading like fire, but is it a fad or is it actually worth it? It has evolved from the concept of fasting; that is abstaining oneself from food for a particular duration, usually, it is done for spiritual purposes but these days a lot of people do it for health reasons as well. Intermittent fasting can be defined as eating only in a particular time window and fasting for rest of the duration. 12:12 is one of the most common time frame used by people, meaning they eat in a 12-hour window and fast for the next 12 hours. The 12-hour fasting does not give you the ticket to eat just anything, for best results sensible eating is advised, it is important to eat as per your medical condition but predominantly a diet that is high in protein, low in carbohydrates and has a moderate amount of healthy fats is usually suggested. Only water is allowed to have during 12 hours of fasting.

Following are a few benefits of 12-hour fasting:

1. Good for the brain: As when we fast regularly the body goes into a ketosis stage where the ketones produced helps in maintaining the brain function.

2. Slows down ageing: Intermittent fasting involves calorie restriction when the calories are reduced the cells get a chance to detox and recycle itself.

3. Reduces inflammation in the body: Fasting slows down the formation of free radicals in the body thus reducing the inflammation.

4. Hormonal regulation: Intermittent fasting helps in regulating and improving the function of various hormones such as insulin and growth hormone.

5. Weight loss: Intermittent fasting is a blessing for those who are not able to lose weight due to their habit of munching. Since the person cannot eat beyond a particular time, it helps in calorie restriction, thus weight loss.

6. Lowers the risk if type 2 diabetes: Studies have noted a drop of 3-6% of fasting blood sugar and a 20-30% drop in fasting insulin levels of those who follow intermittent fasting.

One should be wise enough to decide if intermittent fasting is for them or not. Before fasting, one must consider their predominant dosha, as hardcore fasting is not appropriate for Vata personalities as it can increase the Vata (air) in the body which can lead to flatulence. Fasting can be done by the Pitta people but staying hungry for longer can cause them acidity and hunger pangs as Pitta’s have a strong appetite. Kapha people are the most suitable people who can comfortably go for such kind of fasting.

To know which Prakriti you belong to you can do a simple Prakriti Analysis in our Vedique Diet App!

It is important to note that intermittent fasting is not advised for those who are pregnant and lactating also people having medical conditions such as diabetes and other chronic diseases, it is very important for them to take guidance from their doctor first.

                       “Incorporate intermittent fasting in your daily life and enjoy its health benefits”