Intermittent fasting seems to be one of the most talked about trends for weight loss today. But despite its popularity, many people still misunderstand many aspects of it. One misconception is that intermittent fasting for weight loss is an alternative to traditional exercise and diet. While it’s a safe practice if done correctly, it’s only as effective as other methods. Experts from a fitness studio for women in And over discuss facts about intermittent fasting.
Exhibit self-control
Self-control is extremely necessary during the hours of fasting and not fasting. Eating shouldn’t be a reward for a successful fast because it counteracts what you are trying to achieve. Brad Pilon, author of Eat, Stop, Eat and the person who introduced the science behind 24-hour fasting, says that after finishing a fast, one should pretend that it never happened. That means no special shakes, no special donuts, or any kind of compensation.
Fasting for several hours without reward may sound difficult, but it’s crucial for weight loss success. It’s important to remember that fasting shouldn’t be an excuse to eat anything and in whatever quantities you want.
Be consistent
Consistency is the key to any weight loss plan. People who have the most success with intermittent fasting take it as a long-term method of shedding and keeping their ideal weight. Don’t consider it as a quick solution to drop some pounds fast and then switch to a high carb diet again.
Maintain a calorie deficit
A practical example of intermittent fasting is to burn 2,000 calories per day for two non-consecutive 24-hour periods of fasting during the week. Eat as much as your body needs for the rest of the week. This creates a deficit of 4,000 calories, which is around 1 point of weight loss per week.
Fasting for weight loss works, but it’s not magic. Just like in any other method, you need consistency, commitment, and self-control to achieve the results that you want.
