Intermittent fasting (IF) has gained a lot of popularity in recent times. Whether you’re scrolling through social media or sitting with a group of friends, you’ve probably watched or discussed a video at some point. While many people are familiar with the concept of intermittent fasting, some still are not. With so much information floating around, it can be quite confusing to know what to trust and what not. Before we figure out if it’s a good fit for us, we may have already made the wrong move. Do you find yourself in a similar situation? Are you troubled by the myths associated with intermittent fasting? Do not panic! Recently, nutritionist Rashi Choudhary took to Instagram to reveal three common intermittent fasting myths that you should dispel.
Also read: High blood sugar and cholesterol? Study shows how intermittent fasting can help
Photo Credit: iStock
What is intermittent fasting?
Intermittent fasting is an eating pattern that alternates between periods of eating and fasting. There is not just one but many methods of intermittent fasting that people adopt. Some people fast 12 hours a day or 16 hours a day, others may fast 2 days a week, or fast 24 hours weekly. Several studies show that intermittent fasting may provide potential benefits such as aiding weight loss, improving heart health, and reducing inflammation in the body.
According to a nutritionist, there are 3 myths about intermittent fasting you should stop believing:
1. You can fast at any time during your cycle
A common myth is that women can do intermittent fasting anytime during menstruation. However, Rashi says this is a complete myth. “Men have a 24-hour testosterone cycle, while women have a 28-day progesterone-estrogen cycle,” she says. Therefore, she suggests intermittent fasting cyclically rather than at any time of the month. This way, it will work better for you and you will be able to get the desired results.
2. Fasting for longer periods = more weight loss
Many people think that fasting for a longer period of time leads to greater weight loss. But the reality is completely opposite. In some cases, prolonged fasting can cause your hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis to become dysregulated. This can lead to stress, have a negative effect on your cortisol, and even lead to weight gain. According to nutritionists, you may lose weight in the beginning, but you will gain weight later, especially if your eating time is very short.
3. Intermittent fasting can solve your health problems
Do you think intermittent fasting can solve all your health problems? This is not true. According to Rashi, intermittent fasting can sometimes do more than good, especially if you have gut issues like acid reflux, bloating or constipation. You should also avoid it if you have hypothyroidism. Therefore, it is better not to follow intermittent fasting blindly or believe that it can magically cure all your health problems.
Also read: 3 Facts You Should Know Before Planning Intermittent Fasting – Expert Shares
Watch the full video below:
View this post on Instagram
Intermittent fasting can work in your favor if you follow it properly. Dispel these myths and take a step forward in your journey towards weight loss. Stay fit and healthy!
