Intermittent fasting is a subject that has gained momentum in the medical community, prompting many discussions on its benefits. While people fast for a variety of reasons, many take this approach with their diet for health improvement and weight loss. Is intermittent fasting all hype, or is there really science-based evidence that suggests it benefits the body?
What Is Intermittent Fasting?
For those unfamiliar with intermittent fasting, there are three main types. Alternate day fasting, time-restricted feeding, and periodic fasting can be used to improve health and decrease weight.
In its simplest terms, intermittent fasting involves switching between cycles of eating and fasting on a focused schedule. This pattern of eating is gaining momentum across the world, leading scientists to study this practice to reveal any health benefits that are offered, if any.
Medical Science Has Its Say on the Subject of Intermittent Fasting
While countless people intermittently fast and report improved changes to their health and waistline, there must be scientific evidence to back up these claims before intermittent fasting (IF) will ever be fully embraced. With more and more research being carried out on the subject, some interesting findings have come to light.
According to research carried out by the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, intermittent fasting manipulates the mitochondria inside human cells. These energy powerhouses grow more ineffective as we age. Scientists believe IF helps to change the way mitochondria work and could be a causal link to longevity, due to the reduction of age-related diseases.
Harvard scientists are not the only ones who have discovered evidence on the effectiveness of IF. In a study published by Pub Med, it was discovered fasting helps to increase the body's resting energy expenditure rate.
This offers credence to the claims of weight loss with IF. When a person fasts, their body is actually burning more calories than normal during periods of rest. Obviously, those who are fasting for portions of the day are going to naturally see caloric reductions. When caloric reduction is coupled with an increased metabolic process, weight loss will occur. It is clear that IF can help with weight loss, especially when eating periods are controlled, along with caloric intake.
In a study published in The Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, it was discovered intermittent fasting shows benefits in enhancing the function of the cardiovascular system and brain, effectively reducing the risks of stroke and coronary artery disease.
Studies conducted on rodents revealed intermittent fasting helped to increase resistance against ischemic damage in heart and brain cells. Scientists believe this resistance occurs because of a reduction in oxidative damage and cellular stress resistance. Normal brain and heart function are vital for overall good health and longevity. It appears intermittent fasting can help to improve the function of these two vital organs and prevent damages caused by free radicals.
Bottom Line
Intermittent fasting is increasing in popularity and for good reason. Even scientists cannot deny the many benefits of incorporating IF into a healthy diet and exercise plan.
When used correctly, intermittent fasting can be a tool that helps individuals to shed excess weight and protect their body from damages that can lead to stroke, heart attack, and age-related diseases.
If you have been considering adding IF to your eating plan, always consult your doctor first. With IF, you can protect and even improve your health.