Fast Guide On Intermittent Fasting and the 16:8 Plan

Intermittent fasting is one of today’s most popular health trends. Intermittent fasting is an eating schedule where one eats “normally” on some days and goes without food for a specified amount of time on others. Not only does intermittent fasting help you lose weight, but studies have shown that it can curb cravings, improve blood sugar level, and helps heal the gut (read more about this here).

While there are a variety of different intermittent fasting methods, the “16:8” fasting schedule seems to be the most popular and easiest to follow.

What is the 16:8 fasting method?

In summary, this fasting model involves only eating during an eight-hour window and then fasting for the remaining 16 hours.

How do you get started with this 16:8 fasting method?

First, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional to make sure fasting is right for you. Once your healthcare professional gives you the nod, you need to choose the eight-hour intake window that suits your lifestyle. For example, if you’re someone who needs breakfast and doesn’t care much for dinner, schedule your window from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

It’s very important to listen to your body while fasting. According to this article by Mindbodygreen, if you’ve never fasted before, it’s highly recommended to start with only a couple of days a week, or gradually increasing your fasting window from 12 to 14 to 16 hours.

What kind of meals should you eat during your 16:8 fasting?

During the eight-hour window, you have the freedom to consume whatever you want. However, this does not mean to splurge on unhealthy foods during this time. But rather if you want to get the most out of your diet you should stick to clean proteins, healthy fats and whole food sources. Read more about meal plans here.

Your doctor may also suggest you take 100% natural, plant-based supplements, like Taste of Earth, to ensure you are taking getting the necessary healthy nutrients while you are adjusting your diet.

This diet, just like any diet, is sustainable if you stick to a strict regimen. So, if done correctly, the benefits and results of the 16:8 intermittent fasting could be worth it. Whether your goal is weight-loss or any of the other health benefits it brings, this diet allows you to have the flexibility to adjust the frequency and timing according to your health goals. Whether you decide to incorporate this diet every day of the week, or simply a few days of the week, is up to your individual goals and progress.