Intermittent fasting is an internationally growing trend for healthy living in recent times. The benefits of time-restricted eating and other approaches to it that involve avoiding caloric foods or drinks for prolonged periods of time (anywhere from 12 hours to several days) have helped to popularize it.
There are two common-sense rationales for fasting. Firstly, humans are believed to have evolved from an environment where food was scarce and they had to hunt and gather to survive. As a result, they ate sporadically. Secondly, we live in a world with fast food outlets and dhabas at every corner, which allows us to eat round-the-clock without realizing that it is not good for the gut and the body’s metabolic system.
As per research from last year published in the American Journal of Physiology, fasting regimens may provide a period of ‘gut rest’ that could result in several meaningful health benefits such as improved gut microbe diversity, better gut barrier function, and more immunity.
Here’s a look at why intermittent fasting is of the most widely followed food and health trends around the world.
Detoxification
Everybody needs a break and that goes for the physical body as well. Intermittent fasting allows the digestive system to take much-needed rest that allows it to detox and cleanse itself.
Minimized Insulin Resistance
Insulin is a vital hormone that is produced by the pancreas. It helps regulate the body’s metabolism. According to studies, regular intermittent fasting can help to reduce the risk of getting diabetes.
Mental Clarity
Hardcore foodies are often tired and sleepy, and have a lot on their minds that results in restlessness, insomnia, and psychological problems. Controlling one’s eating routine with fasting helps to provide clarity of thought besides improving focus and concentration.
Better Immunity
Intermittent fasting allows the body to suppress chronic inflammation and oxidative stress, which leads to improved immunity.
Weight Loss
People often starve themselves to lose weight and there is a misconception that intermittent fasting is the same thing. However, studies have shown that people are able to burn excess fat and reduce weight because their bodies are on a timely eating routine with intermittent fasting.
Has intermittent fasting helped you lose weight and become healthier, too? Let us know in the comments.
