🍽️ Intermittent Fasting: Does it work for everyone?

(It's morning... Neha is drinking her favourite tea, and I am checking my gym bag for essentials.)

Neha:
"Ankit, have you heard of intermittent fasting? Everyone is talking about it. Does it really work or is it just another fad?"

Me (laughing a little):
"Arre yaar, you have become a fitness expert! See, it's true that intermittent fasting is not just a trend, but a lot of research has also been done on it. I also tried it and believe me, I am feeling good."

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What is intermittent fasting?

Intermittent fasting is not the way to eat, but deciding when to eat. It doesn't mean that you have to empty your plate every time, but you have to eat at a time and fast for the rest of the time.

Some of the common ways are:

1. The 16/8 method: Fast for 16 hours and eat your meals in 8 hours.

2. The 5:2 diet: Eat normally for 5 days in a week, and eat very low calories for the other 2 days.

3. Alternate-day fasting: Fast for one day and eat normally the next day.

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Does it really work?

Well, the answer is definitely yes, but it also depends on your life circumstances. Meaning, if you follow it correctly, you can get many benefits.

1. Weight loss:

Many people use intermittent fasting to lose weight. If followed correctly, it helps burn fat. When you eat food in a shorter time, the body's metabolism rate increases, and you burn more calories.

Neha (thinking):
"So, if I reduce my eating time, I can lose weight?"

Me:
"Yes, and it will have a positive effect on your health too. But remember, you have to develop a habit of eating healthy."

2. Energy and mental clarity:

Intermittent fasting also increases energy levels. Many people feel that their attention and focus improves during fasting. They feel physically lighter and have increased mental clarity.

Neha:
"So, I can get more energy? That's great to hear!"

Me:
"Absolutely! And when you feel more energetic, you will enjoy work too."

3. Benefits for the body:

Intermittent fasting also brings many changes inside the body. It reduces the insulin level of the body and also protects you from diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Also, it strengthens your internal organs.

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Is it for everyone?

Absolutely not. Intermittent fasting is not right for everyone. Some people are not able to follow it properly, especially those who have a lot of responsibilities.

1. Health conditions:

If you have diabetes, low blood pressure, or any other health problem, it is important that you consult a doctor first.

2. Hunger shock:

At the beginning of intermittent fasting, you may feel very hungry. But with time, the body adapts to it. It may be a little difficult in the beginning, but then everything becomes easy.

Neha:
"So, I have to eat everything in 8 hours? And what should I do if I feel hungry?"

Me:
"Nehu, it's okay if you feel very hungry, you will get used to it gradually. It may just be a little difficult in the beginning."

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How to start?

If you want to adopt this method, try it slowly. There are no hard rules in the beginning, just patience and adopting the right method.

Step 1: Start with a 12-hour fast (e.g., don't eat anything from 8 pm to 8 am) and then gradually increase it.

Step 2: Drink water and herbal teas. This helps control hunger and keeps the body hydrated.

Step 3: Eat healthy. Avoid junk food, but eat nutrient-rich foods.

Neha:
"But Ankit, can't we drink tea or coffee? It has a lot of calories?"

Me:
"You can have black coffee or green tea, it has very low calories and it also keeps the body active."

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Emotional benefits of intermittent fasting

The biggest benefit of intermittent fasting is that it gives you mental peace and balance. Neha and I started it together and both realized that fasting gives us a chance to connect with each other not only physically but also on an emotional level.

Neha:
"Honestly, we get to spend some quality time together whenever we do this together."

Me:
"Nehu, that's the thing. It has become not just a way of eating but also a way to strengthen our relationship."

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🎯 Final Thoughts - From the Heart of Ankit:

Intermittent fasting is not a magic wand, it's a lifestyle. Yes, it works, but everyone's body is different. If you follow it the right way and maintain discipline, not only will you lose weight, but you will also improve your health.

And yes, when you have someone in your life who supports you, every step seems easy. Just like Neha supported me, you too can make this journey fun and easy.

Neha (laughs):
"Now what, Ankit, along with fasting, we have to make a nice tea at least!"

Me:
"I'll bring it now, Nehu! Fitness and tea, both together!"

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#GoFitWithNekit #IntermittentFasting #FastingForHealth #DesiCoupleFitness #HealthyLifestyle #nekit984

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