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What seemed to be the latest weight loss fad a few years ago may actually be a formula for weight loss success for some. What is this "fad-turned-fact?" Intermittent fasting. How could a weight loss diet be successful when it combines several "feasting days" where food is consumed abundantly, along with "fasting days" where calories are severely restricted? That's right: Fasting days contain only 500-600 calories. It would seem that this eating pattern would bring about excessive hunger, resulting in binge eating when food was finally permitted. Yet, people regularly express the need for a break from the humdrum and mundane calorie-counting world. Could intermittent fasting be the break that lowers your weight? What Is IF?A variety of IF programs exist, including those in which individuals consume calorie-producing foods and beverages for just four to six hours each day and other that include two days of very low calorie consumption alternating with five days of "normal eating." Other IF plans require individuals to eat just one meal every other day, which contains about 30 percent of their typical daily calorie intake. Several studies now compare the weight loss results of an IF eating plan to a more traditional calorie restriction (CR) diet plan. Most of these studies used an IF program of two to three days of low, 500 to 600 calorie intake, alternating with four to five days of normal eating. In the studies, similar weight loss results were reported with both IF and CR eating plans showing both to be equally effective in decreasing body weight and body fat. How IF WorksWith only two to three days a week of consuming fewer calories, some find it to be an easier plan to follow. As a result, the caloric intake stays low and weight loss increases. There is also the possibility that the continued daily caloric restriction of many traditional weight loss plans may actually slow metabolism. Eating normally most days of the week, combined with two or three days of fasting may be more effective at keeping the metabolic rate consistent. Lastly, glucose is available in the blood and glycogen stores are filled in the muscles and liver in a traditional weight loss plan, thus the body relies less on stored fat. However, on fasting days when glucose is not as readily available, the body turns more quickly to fat as a fuel source. What Science Doesn't SayWhile there is preliminary research showing that intermittent fasting can be a reliable plan for weight loss, it is important not to get caught up in all the other claims being touted. Magazines, books, celebrities, chefs, documentaries and some doctors are reporting all sorts of miraculous cures as a result of IF. You'll see reports of stimulating fat burning, boosted metabolism and increased energy, but it's all just slick marketing. Weight loss is weight loss—with IF, you are primarily just cutting out excessive calorie intake. You'll also hear claims regarding IF and longevity, cancer cures and dementia treatment. While preliminary research is occurring in these other areas, we are far from having enough research evidence to make medical treatment recommendations. Is IF for You?First, establish if IF is not for you. Medical conditions such as diabetes require a more equal distribution of food intake or use certain medications that require specific food intake patterns. Furthermore, if you are involved in an intense athletic training program, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant in the future or you have or are recovering from an eating disorder, IF likely is not the eating plan for you. Consider making a quick call to your doctor or Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) to get the green light before starting an eating program.If your current calorie-counting plan works for you, keep on keeping on. If, based on your physically demanding job or lifestyle, you know that there is no way you could survive on 500 calorie intake days, you are probably right. You know your body best, so follow your gut. However, if you are thinking that IF might work for you and your goals and you're tired of counting every calorie, every day, this might just be the break you need. IF, The Smart WayIf you want to try an IF program, then fast wisely. First, you need to know your Sparkpeople weight-loss calorie range and weight-maintenance calorie amount. For example, let's assume that you lose one pound of weight each week on a 1,500 calories-per-day plan, and you maintain your weight on 2,000 calories per day. Set the calorie amount for your two days of lower-calorie fasting by using about 25 percent of your maintenance calorie amount for your fasting days. If that 2,000 calories per day maintains your weight, aim for 500 calories. The amount that is often suggested is 500 calories for women and 600 calories for men. Very light meals, three to four times a day will bring you to this calorie amount. The chart below includes a few light meal ideas. Remember to use water and zero-calorie beverages to meet your hydration needs, and consider taking a multivitamin-mineral supplement.
It's important that you change the way you think about your five "normal" days of eating. Rather than "feasting days," think of the five days as "feeding days." Focus on using your allotted 1,800 to 1,900 calories to give your body the lean meat and vegetable protein foods, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy and whole grains it needs. Not having to meticulously count calories is one of the main benefits of an IF eating plan, but you still have to maintain an overall healthy, balanced eating plan. Monitor Your ProgressTrial your IF program for two to three weeks. Monitor how you are feeling and your weekly weight loss. Tweak your program along the way so that you continue with your calorie deficit without feeling dizzy, light-headed or fatigued. If you continue to struggle with these symptoms, face the facts that IF is not for everyone. As you continue with your IF plan, decide if this is a long-term eating style or one you use only for short time periods to add variety and flexibility to your plan. Ask yourself if IF is helping you to be more successful in achieving your weight-loss goals and gauge whether or not you feel more or less deprived when using an IF plan. No matter what plan you choose, continue to be aware of all food choices and mindfully eat your meals and snacks. |
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