Maybe that’s not such a bad idea after all! Delaying a first meal until later in the day as part of an intermittent fasting program seems to have health benefits, and may be a better fit for many Baby Boomers and older adults who just aren’t hungry when they first roll out of bed.
A Challenge to the “Three Square Meals” Idea
For years, we dietitians have encouraged clients to eat breakfast daily, along with lunch and dinner. A morning meal is an important way to “fill up the tank” after the evening fast; it’s especially critical in providing energy for the brain. And regular breakfast consumption is a practice followed by thousands of folks who have lost substantial amounts of weight, according to the National Weight Loss Registry.
But the idea of “fasting” has been around for decades. “Intermittent fasting” (IF) involves a weekly rotation of fasting days and non-fasting days. And the fasting days may actually allow for some food consumption, depending on the specific plan. The key is to choose healthful foods ON ALL DAYS.
Benefits of Intermittent Fasting
Studies show that intermittent fasting may improve blood pressure and insulin sensitivity, and reduce inflammation, thereby decreasing risk factors for chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. And it also helps people lose weight.
In animal studies, IF increases longevity. Although the evidence from human studies is inconclusive, Dan Buettner, who has researched Blue Zones around the world–areas where the healthiest, oldest people thrive–has found evidence of short fasts in these societies.
If You’re Thinking About An Intermittent Fast…
IF makes our bodies healthier by stressing our cells. Sounds counterintuitive, but in the long run, our body’s response to caloric deprivation means we’re stronger and more resilient.
But because of this stress, IF is not for everybody. It’s best for folks over 50 to consult with their healthcare professional before embarking on this major change in eating habits. It’s also important to drink plenty of water daily, at least six glasses. And it’s critical that the foods consumed are healthy ones–with calories at a premium, meals must contain foods that pack the most nutrient value (read: no junk food!).
If you get the green light for IF, you might approach it in one of two ways:
1) Skip a typical breakfast altogether, opting for a large late-morning brunch followed by an early dinner. –OR–
2) Limit food intake to 500 calories every other day.
Want to learn more about eating habits for successful weight loss? Then please join me for my live workshop, “7 Truths About Weight Loss!”
I’ll teach you the simple techniques my clients have used to reach their fitness goals.
I’m super excited to announce this event, which I’ve been wanting to launch for several months now.
It happens on Monday, September 19, 2016, from 10:30 am – 12:00 pm PST.
Get ready to learn from the *latest research* about food, exercise and weight control–information I can’t wait to share with you! “7 Truths About Weight Loss” addresses your questions and doubts and shows you how to be successful weight journey.
The regular price for this workshop is $147, but I’m offering it FREE, and you can bring a friend!
Location: Temecula Public Library, 30600 Pauba Rd., Temecula, CA 92592
Click here to register or call 951 533-2612.