Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
There are many benefits of intermittent fasting, but what are they exactly? In this article, we will look at weight loss, improved blood sugar and insulin levels, and a reduced risk of cancer. If you’d like to know more, keep reading. But first, let’s take a look at how intermittent fasting works. And what are the risks associated with this method? Here are some facts. So what are the benefits of intermittent fasting?
Many people do intermittent fasting in order to lose weight. In fact, there are numerous potential health and mental benefits associated with the practice. But what most people don’t realize is that intermittent fasting isn’t simply a diet trend. It’s also an ancient tradition.
Weight loss
During intermittent fasting, you consume a small amount of food at intervals. The goal is to have at least 16 hours of calorie-free eating each week. The easiest way to lose weight using this method is to avoid eating after 8 p.m. On fasting days, you can have a sugar-free black coffee or tea before noon. In case you are a caffeine addict, you can drink a cup of sugar-free tea before lunch.
Improved blood sugar levels
While intermittent fasting can be beneficial for diabetics, people with Type 1 or type 2 diabetes should be cautious and consult their primary care physician before beginning. There are some risks of low or high blood sugar during the fasting period, and intense workouts may cause blood sugar levels to fall even more. Before starting your own intermittent fasting plan, speak with your primary care physician about how to monitor your blood sugar levels. You may need to change your medication to prevent dangerous swings in blood sugar levels.
Lower insulin levels
A new study suggests that alternate-day fasting may reduce insulin levels and decrease the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. The study looked at the effects of fasting on insulin resistance and fasting insulin levels. In particular, researchers found that the practice of intermittent fasting reduced insulin levels and lowered fasting insulin resistance more than calorie restriction. The findings support other research that suggests that intermittent fasting may improve heart health and reduce the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes.
Reduced risk of cancer
While studies on the benefits of intermittent fasting for cancer have been in their infancy, the research done so far shows a possible benefit. According to a study, cancer cells are less likely to develop precancerous changes when they undergo time-restricted feeding. The fasting process may have other benefits as well. It may help improve the health of normal cells and increase their tolerance to cancer treatments.
Increased growth of new neurons
Inflammation and protein plaques that form in the brain can damage or destroy nerve cells. Intermittent fasting may improve neural connections and protect brain cells from these harmful plaques. This has been suggested in epidemiological studies that found low food intake was associated with a lower incidence of Alzheimer’s disease. Several factors can promote the growth of new neurons in the brain. This research highlights the importance of fasting in the treatment of dementia and other degenerative diseases.