Fasting has become a big trend in recent years because of its benefits on the body and weight loss. Everyone should fast as it can help the body in many ways like longevity, better gut health and digestion, and fat loss. The term for entirely or partially fasting is called intermittent fasting. So for general well-being, how many times a week should you fast?
You should fast 1-2 times a week if you are following the 16/8 fasting method; however, if you are fasting for 24 hours straight, then do this only once a week for your general well-being. On the other hand, fasting done for weight loss with the 16/8 method allows you to do it 4-5 times a week.
Let’s get to know more about fasting & its frequency.
What is Intermittent Fasting?
Alternating between eating and fasting intervals is called intermittent fasting. This style of eating is frequently referred to as fasting “patterns” or “cycles.”
Intermittent fasting does not involve starvation; rather, it involves drastically reducing caloric intake for brief intervals. The notion is that your body will grow content with fewer meals, minimizing your desire for unhealthy snacks. That is, provided you keep a healthy diet while experimenting.
How Many Times a Week Should You Fast?
If you use the 16/8 fasting method, you should fast 1-2 times per week. On the other hand, fasting for weight loss with the 16/8 approach permits you to perform it 4-5 times per week.
If you fast for 24 hours straight, you should only do this once a week for your overall health. More frequent fasting may result in muscle loss and other harmful effects.
If your fast lasts for 36 or 48 hours, you should take a week or two off between fasts. Then, begin with a more modest strategy, pausing for two full weeks between fasts.
What Is The Best Way Of Intermittent Fasting?
The most common and popular method of intermittent fasting is the 16/8 method. 16:8 Intermittent fasting is a popular and simple weight loss method. When experimenting with intermittent fasting for the first time, eating within an 8-hour window is customary, followed by a 16-hour fasting period.
The majority of people adhere to this daily routine, having their first meal at midday or noon and their last meal at dinner. Proponents assert that it is a simple, practical, and sustainable method for losing weight and improving health.
Should You Do a 16/8 Intermittent Fasting Method?
Many people can safely engage in intermittent fasting, although this is not always the case. Not suggested for anyone under 18, those with a history of eating disorders, or women who are pregnant or nursing. In addition, fueling and refueling properly for an active lifestyle can be challenging for athletes. Consult your doctor before beginning intermittent fasting if you have diabetes or any other medical condition.
Limiting the time you have to eat could make it harder to receive enough of the nutrients your body needs. Meals on this diet should be composed of nutritious components, including fresh produce, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy products.
How Fasting Helps Weight Loss?
Macronutrients and micronutrients are the building blocks of the food we eat. The energy we obtain comes from the breakdown of carbohydrates, such as rice and starchy vegetables, which are converted into glucose. Without an immediate need, glucose is stored as glycogen in the liver and skeletal muscles and adipose tissue in the fat cells.
As glucose stores are depleted during a fast, the body shifts to using stored fat as fuel, and the person slims down.
Bottom Line
So this was all about how many times a week should you fast. The popular method is 16/8 fasting, which involves fasting for 16 hours and eating in an 8-hour window. If you are doing this method, then you should do it twice a week for general well-being. However, if you are performing it for weight loss, then you should do it 4-5 times a week.
On the other hand, 24-hour fasting should only be done once a week.
We hope this article was helpful & informative. Please leave your valuable thoughts & suggestions in the comments below!
Thank you for reading!