- thenudewellness
- 1 day ago
- 3 min read
Here's What I've Learned
Intermittent fasting has become very popular in the wellness world and for good reason. As someone who is always looking for ways to stay fit and feel good in my body, intermittent fasting felt like the best natural field for me. But is it really good for you? Here's what I've learned from research and my own personal experience.
What is Intermittent Fasting ?
Intermittent fasting is not about what you eat, but when you eat. It's a way of eating that aligns between the periods you fast and when you eat. The most popular methods is the 16:8, which mean you fast for 16 hours and eat for 8 hours, this was the very first method i did when i got into intermittent fasting.
Let me give example, when i started i eat between 10am-11am and 6pm. This gives my body time to rest and burn fat naturally during my fasting window.
Benefits I've Noticed
Since i started intermittent fasting at the age of 19, i have noticed some real changes in my body, especially with how i feel in my clothing and skin. Some common benefits of fasting includes
Reduced bloating and improved disgestion - I used to be bloated all the time and suffer from indigestion, i mean bloating can be caused sometimes by how fast we eat and what we eat, but my bloated has reduced alot from fasting.
Fewer Cravings - talk about late night snacks, i used to love eating late, had lots of cravings, wanting a little late night snacks that consist of eating ice cream, bowl of cereal and so on but since fasting, my cravings have reduced because it's not about restriction but self discipline. Now, Instead of eating late night snacks, i drink tea or water.
more energy- Ever noticed when you constantly eat through the day, you feel lazy? well yes, i used to be that. When i ate constantly, i felt weak and lazy but now, i have more energy, i even walked and workout during my fasting phase.
weight management - this is the best, you loose wieght when doing intermittent fasting, i used to be 10 pounds heavier, chubby face, bloated stomach, i could not fit in some of my clothing. Now i have lost those weight, i feel lighter, energized, my clothing fits well.
For me, Fasting simplifies my daily routine, no stressing about late night snacks or breakfast. I used to love my breakfast at 7 or 8am, but now i don't even feel hungry during those times and i eat my breakfast at 11am depending on how i am feeling.
The Other sides (What to Consider)
Just like everything, fasting might not be for everyone, you might experience
Hunger or fatigue in the beginning, this is because your body is not yet used to it especially when you are someone who eats late at night, this will be a huge change.
Difficulty in focusing, if you are used to eating first thing in the morning, you will definitely find it hard to focus because all your body wants is food .
Mood chnages - your mood will change if your blood sugar drops too low.
Also, if you have any health conditions or are pregnant, always make sure you talk to your doctor or health provider before fasting.
My Routines (What Works for Me)
During my fasting window, I love to drink electrolytes first thing in the morning, it keeps me full, hydrated and energized before i break my fast . I break my fast with something very clean, not processed sugar as it might spike your blood sugar. I start with drinking green tea or spearmint tea or warm lemon water before eating or while eating breakfast and then I make a good high protein yogurt bowl ( plain greek yogurt, wild blueberries, strawberries, kiwi, and almond nuts, you can add a spoon of honey if you want it sweet).
Final thoughts
Intermittent fasting is not a miracle but it can be a good tool if you are trying to loose weight and feel more in control of your body and routine. it is very simple, free, gentle and aligns well with your lifestyle if you really are determined. I use this free app called Fastic. If you are just starting out, i recommend you start with low fasting window like 12-14 hours fasting and increase it depending on your body.
Shop My Fasting Essentials (linked below)
Electrolytes - for hydration and energy
Have you tried Intermittent fasting before ? I would love to knwo what worked for you!!!