“Are you dieting? Because you look fabulous”?

This phrase is often heard at brunches when middle-aged women meet after a long time, especially in the United States. One would see five to seven women in their 30s or 40s invested in understanding how fabulous their girlfriends look. It makes people wonder, “is it a lifestyle choice?” To some, it is, but for most people, it’s a chance to take a healthier approach to life.

Different elements make dieting a viable choice. Don’t just take it from here; there’s backed-up research suggesting that fasting can make a huge difference in a person’s life. Fasting may improve blood sugar control, something diabetics can find useful. More than 31 million Americans have been diagnosed with high blood sugar.

A Lifestyle Choice, Not a Forced Regimen

It can be hard to adopt a healthy lifestyle in such unhealthy times. Fasting can help individuals prevent a number of diet-related diseases. However, not every fasting methodology works. Research suggests that some fasting methods outdo others, one of which is intermittent fasting.

The term intermittent fasting was first introduced during the 2012 documentary: Eat Fast, Live Longer. It wouldn’t be farfetched to claim that intermittent fasting has become a staple in the CrossFit community. Different models and athletes use intermittent fasting to achieve different goals in varying settings. In his book, Fasting – The New You(th) Behind the Science and Research of FASTING to Become Happier and Healthier, Micheal Philips shares the importance of intermittent fasting (or fasting in general) for a person.

Although fasting is essential to keep the body in tip-top shape, Micheal also shares that it is vital to understand that fasting helps prevent dangerous effects of metabolism adaptation. It’s also imperative to understand that intermittent fasting isn’t like usual dieting methods since it revolves around eating patterns rather than fasting. So, if one takes “Intermittent Fasting 101,” it won’t be about the type of food they take or avoid, but the timing of the meals.

Understanding Intermittent Fasting

Ironically, there are several kinds of intermittent fasting, but only a few have been recorded to make a difference. One of the promising ones is the “Eat-Stop-Eat” routine that involves fasting for two hours once or twice a week. For instance, a person can eat anything after dinner from the previous day to the next day.

Another notable one is the 16/8 method, known as the Leangains protocol. This intermittent fasting method includes skipping breakfast and ensuring that a person’s eating habit lasts 8 hours. Afterward, they fast for 16 hours until the next eating period.

Yes, these methods do involve reducing caloric intake, either by purposely following this routine or restricting time on meals. However, it can only make a difference when it becomes a lifestyle. Effective results aren’t possible if not religiously followed. Micheal Phillips is one of those fitness fanatics/authors who also understand the human psyche. Unfortunately, not everyone has the metabolism to digest everything while expecting a leaner, healthier body.

Some people find it difficult to carry muscle mass, but their food intake eats them from the inside out. That’s when diseases will surface and carry out their mission, and it won’t just be diabetes. For instance, overeating or having an unhealthy diet can result in gastrointestinal inflammation, oxidative stress, and even cancer. Micheal wants to tell the world that having good food is great, but keeping a healthier lifestyle is the power-up you need to have.

“Fasting is the single greatest natural healing therapy. It is nature’s ancient, universal ‘remedy’ for many problems.” – Elson Haas, M.D.

This book is a definitive guide for the masses to learn that fasting is not your enemy if executed right. The best part about it is that it talks about the mental and physical benefits of fasting. Researchers also suggest that intermittent fasting can trigger feelings of happiness. After all, most people put their focus on their bodies. So, before thinking that fasting doesn’t help, give Micheal’s book a read.

In today’s world, where diseases have infiltrated lives as unwanted guests, taking care of one’s lifestyle is extremely important. Methods like intermittent fasting not only ensure weight management but also help in addressing chronic conditions. It is more than just a method; it is a way to improve everyone’s lives.

Think about it.