As millennials, the question of health and fitness can easily come to our minds. Intermittent fasting, often seen as the ultimate diet plan for the modern age, has been gaining traction for a while now. This is especially if you also use one of the best intermittent fasting apps for Iphones. While some claim miraculous benefits from intermittent fasting, others are more skeptical. But still, it provides the perfect excuse for us to indulge in our favorite guilty pleasure of having cheat days. But is intermittent fasting really all it’s cracked up to be? Here are four myths about intermittent fasting that turn out to be false.
Intermittent Fasting is Unhealthy
Let’s talk about it, like in general. We’re sure you’ve heard it a lot. The reality is that, when done correctly and safely, intermittent fasting can be a healthy and efficient way to lose weight and reduce the risk of certain diseases such as diabetes. A study from 2012 found that intermittent fasting was more beneficial than traditional dietary approaches. Even deeper, if you take a closer look at the research, you’ll find that it’s not just about weight loss. Intermittent fasting can help reduce inflammation, improve digestion, and even slow down aging.
This Fasting Is All About Starvation
This is false. Intermittent fasting does not require you to starve yourself. In general, it means alternating periods of eating and abstaining from food to create a calorie deficit and achieve weight loss goals. In short, it is about making conscious decisions about when and how much you eat. You can still enjoy your meals without feeling guilty and guilt-free. In fact, many people have seen increased energy levels and improved moods after a few weeks of intermittent fasting.
Intermittent Fasting Ruins Your Metabolism
No scientific evidence suggests that intermittent fasting leads to a decrease in metabolism. In fact, research has shown that intermittent fasting can actually increase the body’s metabolic rate. Your metabolism will not be affected in any way, and you’ll continue to burn calories, just like before. Imagine that: you can still enjoy your favorite foods while staying healthy. But note that up till now, no study can 100% explain the ways in which intermittent fasting helps the metabolism, but it has been proven to be effective.
Intermittent Fasting Means No Delicious Foods
Okay, open your eyes. There’s no rule saying you can’t enjoy delicious food while intermittent fasting. It simply means that you should choose your meals wisely and pay attention to the number of calories, fats, and sugars in each meal. You can still eat the foods you love. Just be mindful of them. As long as you are getting enough protein, carbohydrates, and healthy fats, you should be good to go.
While intermittent fasting is an effective health and fitness plan, remember that there are some myths associated with it. Don’t believe everything you hear – do your own research, consult a doctor or dietitian if needed, and ensure the meal plan works for you before you start. Intermittent fasting is about listening to and taking care of your body, not about depriving yourself or feeling guilty for having a cheat day. It’s all about balance.
