You’ve probably heard of intermittent fasting by now. It’s all the rage in the health and fitness world, with everyone from gym rats to yogis incorporating it into their routines. But what is intermittent fasting, and more importantly, what are the benefits? Keep reading to find out the top 5 benefits of intermittent fasting.
1. Improved Insulin Sensitivity
One of the most important benefits of intermittent fasting is improved insulin sensitivity. Insulin is a hormone produced by the pancreas that helps regulate blood sugar levels. When we eat foods high in sugar or carbohydrates, our blood sugar levels spike and our pancreas releases insulin to bring those levels back down. However, over time this system can become dysregulated, leading to insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Intermittent fasting has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, meaning that our bodies are better able to regulate blood sugar levels. This is due to the fact that when we fast, our cells are able to “rest” and heal, resulting in improved function overall.
2. Weight Loss
Intermittent fasting can also help with weight loss. When we fast, our bodies are forced to burn stored fat for energy instead of glucose from food. This process not only results in weight loss, but also helps to improve body composition by reducing body fat percentage while preserving lean muscle mass. In addition, intermittent fasting has been shown to increase levels of human growth hormone (HGH), which can further promote fat loss.
3. Increased Focus and Concentration
Intermittent fasting can also help to improve focus and concentration. When we fast, our bodies are forced to burn stored glucose for energy instead of glucose from food. This results in increased levels of ketones in the brain, which have been shown to improve cognitive function and mental clarity. In addition, fasting has also been shown to increase levels of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter responsible for focus and attention.
4. Reduced Inflammation
Intermittent fasting can also help reduce inflammation throughout the body. Inflammation is a normal immune response that helps protect us from infection and injury. However, chronic inflammation can lead to a host of problems including heart disease, cancer, and arthritis. Intermittent fasting has been shown to decrease levels of inflammatory markers such as C-reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin-6 (IL-6).
5. Longevity
Last but not least, intermittent fasting has also been linked with increased longevity. Studies on animals have shown that caloric restriction can extend lifespan by up to 40%. While more research needs to be done on humans, there is evidence to suggest that intermittent fasting may have similar effects. In one study, individuals who practiced caloric restriction without weight loss had a 36% lower risk of death than those who did not practice caloric restriction.
There you have it! These are just a few of the many reasons why you should consider incorporating intermittent fasting into your routine. Whether you’re looking to lose weight or just improve your overall health, intermittent fasting is a great option worth considering. As always, please consult with your doctor before starting any new diet or exercise program!
