When it comes to my weight, I have always had a hard time maintaining the body I want. I would lose 10 pounds only to gain 15 pounds when I stopped hitting the gym and ate too much junk food. Recently, I’ve been trying to get back into the fitness grind, exercising when I have the time and stopping myself from ending up in a KBBQ spot after a night out.
Lucky for me my parents are always trying to stay healthy. Their latest discovery is intermittent fasting. It isn’t a new concept but it was to me. Curious, I asked them what it was and I was intrigued enough to try it out.
So the way it works is: I eat three meals within an eight-hour period and then fast for 16 hours. I have my first meal at 12 p.m., a snack at 4 p.m., and dinner at 8 p.m. It is important to note that I don’t snack in between my meals. Why? Let’s briefly discuss the difference between the fed state and the fasting state. The fed state is when your body is digesting food, which lasts for three to five hours from when you begin eating. During this time it is hard for your body to burn fat because your insulin levels are high. Once the fed state is done, your body enters the post-absorptive state, which lasts for eight to 12 hours after your last meal. This is when you start fasting because it is easier for your body to burn fat when insulin levels are low.
I’ve been fasting for about two weeks now and I am slowly getting used to it. I don’t get as hangry waiting for the next meal and I don’t dread eating vegetables. My only problem so far is that I have to cut out sugar, which is really difficult for a sweet tooth like me. Now, that you have an idea of what intermittent fasting is, let’s get into what I’ve learned and the changes I’ve seen so far.
My energy level is through the roof
Aside from intermittent fasting, I have also been trying to eat clean. Most of my meals include some sort of protein and vegetables. After a meal, I no longer feel tired or sluggish. I used to take naps after I ate at home (I know, it’s not good for you) but now I can go about my day being more productive. This is a great advantage especially when I’m at work. I can complete whatever I have to do without fighting heavy eyelids.
I don’t feel bloated
In the middle of starting my fast, I got my period (no, not TMI) and I surprisingly did not feel or look bloated. Whenever it’s the time of the month, I feel heavy and my pants get a little too tight but to my surprise I wasn’t as bloated as I used to get. This also applies to how I feel after a meal; I don’t have to unbutton my pants to let my tummy out.
My skin has never looked better
The problems I have with my skin are dryness and white heads. In the short time I’ve been fasting my skin has cleared up and I no longer have dry patches on my face. I can now let my natural skin shine.
I have more control over my eating habits
When it comes to food, I’m really not picky. I’ll eat anything and everything in sight. Which is fine but it can get out of control. I could eat 25 donut holes in one sitting if I wanted to but I now have more discipline so just one or two will do.
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