Matter Of Time
Nutritionist Jamie Schlifstein Explains The Intermittent Fasting Trend
Even if you don't keep up with the latest news in the wellness world, you've likely heard of intermittent fasting - one of the year's biggest health trends.
Proponents of the approach claim that, by alternating patterns of fasting and eating, you can lose weight, improve your metabolic health, prevent diseases and even live longer.
"You're not specifically focusing on food - rather the timing," says Jamie Schlifstein, a nutritionist; dietician; and founder of Functional Eating, LLC, a nutrition consulting practice with offices in West Palm Beach and Boca Raton. "For some people, that's easier."
There are different approaches to intermittent fasting. With the 5:2 Diet, you eat 500 to 600 calories two days a week and eat normally the other five days. With the 16/8 Method, you fast every day for 14 to 16 hours, limiting eating to an eight-to-10-hour window.
No matter which approach you take, hunger is the main side effect, Schlifstein says: "Some people may be so hungry when fasting that they give up because it's too hard."
When fasting, you may also feel weak due to low blood sugar and a lack of proper nutrients, she says, which can impact workouts.
"Sometimes, people who exercise on fasting days may feel lightheaded and dizzy since they don't have fuel."
And, just because it's trendy, that doesn't mean intermittent fasting is right for everyone. Those who are pregnant, trying to conceive, breastfeeding or underweight should avoid it. If you have thyroid issues, diabetes or blood sugar-regulation issues, consult your healthcare provider as intermittent fasting may interfere with these conditions.
If none of those restrictions apply to you and you're reasonably healthy, there's no risk in trying intermittent fasting, Schlifstein says. It can be a great way to jumpstart weight loss, and fasting rules are simple, with no guidebook or cookbook required.
"It's an easy diet to adapt to for certain people," she says. "It's not about changing what you eat and preparing different foods. It's focused on a pattern of eating."