Fasting for Weight Loss, Is it a Healthy Option?
A Common Question: Is Fasting a Healthy Option to Lose Weight?
Fasting for weight loss has become something of a trend in the last couple of years. You hear about it more and more now and get bombarded with often contradictory information on social media, health apps, TV shows, and health coach podcasts.
At My Rejuvenation Med Spa, we want to make sure you have all the necessary information to make an educated decision and not put your health at risk.
The two most common questions we get are: “What is intermittent fasting?” And “Is intermittent fasting for me?”
Let us answer the second question first. Every individual is unique. Each situation is different, and there is no secret formula that will work for everyone the same way as many factors come into play.
Just as with any other diet or health program, intermittent fasting is NOT for everyone. Before diving into fasting or any other weight loss program, the best and safest approach is to consult with a professional who can study your specific situation and goals and customize a plan that will work for your needs.
Let us explain what intermittent fasting is.
Simply put, fasting refers to a period of time where you are not eating. Recently, fasting became popular as a weight-loss approach, while many also swear on its effectiveness to improve health altogether and slow the aging process.
Contrary to diets, intermittent fasting does not tell you what to eat or how much to eat, but rather when you should eat.
There are different fasting approaches, such as the 16-8 method. This method means restricting your eating cycle to a period of 8 hours and not eating for a full 16 hours (skipping breakfast, for instance).
There is also the eat-stop-eat, which involves fasting for 24 hours once or twice a week. The most popular one, however, is to fast for 12 hours a day.
Pros and Cons of Intermittent Fasting
Pros:
Easy to follow: There is not much to it. There are cycles of eating and cycles of fasting, which makes it simple to understand and follow.
Might boost longevity: Several studies have shown that intermittent fasting helps improve metabolism, lessens inflammation, and helps clear out toxins, which could potentially lower the risk of cancer and improve brain function. However, fasting must go hand in hand with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
Could promote weight loss: Eliminating the late-night snacks in addition to the metabolism boost caused by fasting can help lose weight if there is no excess eating or unhealthy food during the hours where food is allowed. Exercising and having a healthy diet are essential.
Cons:
Risk of overeating: Because fasting is not a diet, many people can overeat and abuse unhealthy food during periods when they are “allowed” to eat.
Skipping meals can be dangerous: As we explained initially, fasting is not for everyone, and unfortunately, many people go into it without undergoing a physical. Sometimes they are unaware of underlying health issues that can worsen by fasting. People with diabetes, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, heart disease, among others, should NOT try fasting or at least never without seeking the proper professional advice. Anyone taking medications should ALWAYS consult a professional before fasting as some medicines need to be taken with a meal.
Side effects: From a simple headache or bad mood, low energy levels, reduced physical activity, problems focusing, anxiety, dizziness, depriving your organism of food can have different and often undesirable effects.
What’s the Bottom Line?
So, is fasting a healthy option to lose weight?
Any weight loss program requires an experienced professional who can create a personalized plan based on specific needs. A personalized diet plan will take into consideration your current health condition and nutritional possibilities.
Fasting could help promote weight loss, but it is not advisable for everyone. If you are considering fasting, please make sure it’s under the supervision of a professional.
Make an appointment at My Rejuvenation Med Spa, where you can get a free quote on a weight loss program tailor-made for your needs. Our experienced professionals will run all necessary blood tests and check your medical history to find a weight loss program that is safe and effective for you.
Do not play games with your health! If you want to lose weight and keep it off, contact us today.
Customized Weight Loss Program
Enjoying a balanced lifestyle includes enjoying your food! But how to do this? As each person is unique, only a weight loss coach will truly understand how to put together the right weight loss program for your unique needs. The biggest bump in the road is usually a matter of price. “This really sounds very expensive. I don’t think I can afford it.”
GOOD NEWS! Getting a customized medical-grade weight loss program is affordable!
Take the first step and contact us for a customized weight loss consultation today!
