What is intermittent fasting and how can it help you?

Intermittent fasting is, essentially, about staying clear from foods and drinks for a certain period of time. Several studies have proved that there are many health benefits of this, such as better blood sugar control, low levels of inflammation and improved blood pressure, triglycerides and cholesterol levels.

However, there is more to it than just that. In a recent interview with Pinkvilla, Indian nutritionist and lifestyle educator Karishma Chawla went into detail about the mechanism behind intermittent fasting and some lesser known facts about it. Here’s what she had to say.  

·        How effective is intermittent fasting?
"Well, the concept behind intermittent fasting is it helps the with insulin efficacy, which in turn helps with fat loss that works pretty well. One can also look at it as a healing mechanism where not eating too frequently helps the blood flow to reach places in the body where healing is required,” Chawla explained.
“Having said that, I would still like to emphasise the concept of bio-individuality, where this kind of plan may work for one and not the other. The preferred fasting type is intermittent fasting, provided it is executed smartly and based on the concept of bio-individuality."

·        The facts and figures
According to Chawla , if not executed properly, fasting can end up causing more harm than good. "Fasting gives the body a good break from digestion but prolonged fasting may actually hinder its detox process. Also, extreme detox diets can increase toxin release due to the rapid fat burn, which may be difficult for the body to handle,” she said. “Such diets may also include cortisol, inflammation and psychological distress. Hence, it is imperative to eat a balanced diet - clean food to enhance gut health (this itself helps the body detoxify) and then, get on fasting versions to ensure the right kind of fat loss.”

·        Tricks of the trade
Thinking of giving intermittent fasting a chance? Keep a vision board to keep yourself motivated and go on to the fasting versions gradually.
Chawla recommends sticking to a balanced meal pattern, rather than eating anything and everything. You must also be mindful of never overdoing the carbs and most importantly, supplementing your diet with all the vitamins, minerals and other nutrients required.