Intermittent Fasting Diet

Intermittent fasting (IF) cycles between periods of eating and fasting, promoting weight loss and improving metabolic health. Popular methods include the 16/8 method, where one fasts for 16 hours and eats during an 8-hour window, and the 5:2 method, involving regular eating for five days and restricting calories on two non-consecutive days. Alternate-day fasting involves alternating between fasting days and regular eating days. During fasting periods, water, tea, and black coffee are typically allowed, while meals during eating windows should be balanced and nutritious. IF may offer benefits beyond weight loss, including improved insulin sensitivity and reduced inflammation, but individual results vary. Consulting a healthcare professional before starting is advisable.