How Successful Is Intermittent Fasting?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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A systematic review of 40 studies found that intermittent fasting was effective for weight loss, with a typical

loss of 7-11 pounds over 10 weeks

. [2] There was much variability in the studies, ranging in size from 4 to 334 subjects, and followed from 2 to 104 weeks.

How much weight can you lose in a month with intermittent fasting?

This is how much weight you can lose with intermittent fasting. In doing the fast correctly and ensuring that it is aligning with your mind, body and soul–you can expect a good weight loss of anywhere

between 2 to 6 kgs a month

with excellent inch loss and increase in energy levels and brain function.

How long does it take to see results from intermittent fasting?

The same is with intermittent fasting. Experts suggest that a person needs to follow the basic rules for

at least 10 weeks

to witness some positive results. Following the diet properly for this period of time will help you shed 3 to 5 kilos of weight (depending on your BMR).

Is intermittent fasting really effective?

Although most people practice intermittent fasting to enhance weight loss, it has been associated with many other health benefits as well. In fact, studies show that intermittent fasting

may improve blood sugar levels

, decrease cholesterol, and boost longevity ( 1 , 2 ).

Why intermittent fasting is bad?

Fasting may also lead to an

increase in

the stress hormone, cortisol, which may lead to even more food cravings. Overeating and binge eating are two common side effects of intermittent fasting. Intermittent fasting is sometimes associated with dehydration because when you do not eat, sometimes you forget to drink.

How do I lose 20lbs in a month?

  1. Count Calories. …
  2. Drink More Water. …
  3. Increase Your Protein Intake. …
  4. Cut Your Carb Consumption. …
  5. Start Lifting Weights. …
  6. Eat More Fiber. …
  7. Set a Sleep Schedule. …
  8. Stay Accountable.

Does intermittent fasting reduce belly fat?

When examining the rate of weight loss, intermittent fasting may produce weight loss at a rate of approximately 0.55 to 1.65 pounds (0.25–0.75 kg) per week (23). People also experienced a

4–7% reduction in waist circumference

, indicating that they lost belly fat.

Is 12 hours enough for intermittent fasting?

Fast for 12 hours a day

A person needs to decide on and adhere to a

12-hour fasting window every day

. According to some researchers, fasting for 10–16 hours can cause the body to turn its fat stores into energy, which releases ketones into the bloodstream. This should encourage weight loss.

Is 14 hours enough for intermittent fasting?

It’s

fine to start with 14–16 hours and then move upward from there

. Eat Stop Eat is an intermittent fasting program with one or two 24-hour fasts per week.

How do you know if intermittent fasting is working?

“[Intermittent fasting] is working if there is

a reduction in abdominal fat

— waist size, an increase in insulin sensitivity as indicated by reduced fasting glucose and insulin levels, reduced resting heart rate and blood pressure.”

Why is 16 hours the magic number for fasting?

In addition to enhancing weight loss, 16/8 intermittent fasting is also

believed to improve blood sugar control, boost brain function and enhance longevity

. 16/8 intermittent fasting involves eating only during an eight-hour window during the day and fasting for the remaining 16 hours.

Does sleeping count as fasting?

And

yes, sleeping counts as fasting

! If you are looking for significant weight loss, you might consider working up to 18-20 hours of daily fasting (OMAD or one-meal-a-day), alternate day fasting (fasting every other day, with up to 500 calories on fasting days) or a 5:2 schedule (fasting for two days per week).

What are the cons of intermittent fasting?


Skipping Meals Can Cause Headaches, Dizziness, and Nausea

Long periods of fasting can lower your blood sugar levels and leave you feeling lightheaded, dizzy, with headaches, and/or nausea. If you have a medical condition, talk to your doctor to make sure it’s safe to try intermittent fasting.

Do doctors recommend intermittent fasting?


Most people can try intermittent fasting

. But if you have diabetes, kidney disease or heart failure, talk with your doctor first. Intermittent fasting is not recommended for a person who has an eating disorder or women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Will I gain weight after intermittent fasting?

“Regardless of which type of intermittent fasting you do,

excess calories can occur when you go off the plan

,” said registered dietitian Kristin Kirkpatrick at Cleveland Clinic Wellness. It makes sense: when you have more time to eat, you have more time to snack throughout the day and into the night.

What to expect when you start intermittent fasting?

For a healthy, well-nourished person, intermittent fasting offers very few side effects. When a person first starts fasting,

they may feel slightly physically and mentally sluggish as their body adjusts

. After the adjustment, most people go back to functioning normally.

Maria Kunar
Author
Maria Kunar
Maria is a cultural enthusiast and expert on holiday traditions. With a focus on the cultural significance of celebrations, Maria has written several blogs on the history of holidays and has been featured in various cultural publications. Maria's knowledge of traditions will help you appreciate the meaning behind celebrations.